Skirt steak, a flavorful and tender cut of beef, is often overlooked in favor of more popular cuts like ribeye or sirloin. However, when cooked correctly, skirt steak can be a truly show-stopping dish. One of the best ways to cook skirt steak is in the oven, where it can be cooked to a perfect medium-rare with a crispy crust on the outside. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook skirt steak in the oven, including tips and tricks for achieving the perfect doneness.
Understanding Skirt Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what skirt steak is and how it’s different from other cuts of beef. Skirt steak comes from the diaphragm area of the cow, between the ribs and the belly. It’s a long, thin cut of meat that’s packed with flavor and tenderness. There are two types of skirt steak: inside skirt steak and outside skirt steak. Inside skirt steak is taken from the inside of the diaphragm, while outside skirt steak is taken from the outside. Both types of skirt steak are delicious, but inside skirt steak is generally considered to be more tender and flavorful.
Choosing the Right Skirt Steak
When selecting a skirt steak, look for one that’s at least 1/4 inch thick and has a good balance of marbling (fat distribution) throughout. A skirt steak with too little marbling may be tough and dry, while one with too much marbling may be overly fatty. You can usually find skirt steak at most butcher shops or high-end grocery stores.
Preparing Skirt Steak for Oven Cooking
Before cooking your skirt steak in the oven, it’s essential to prepare it properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
Trimming and Cleaning
Start by trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the skirt steak. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent it from becoming too greasy. Next, pat the steak dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Seasoning
Season the skirt steak liberally with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Some popular seasonings for skirt steak include garlic powder, paprika, and chili powder. Let the steak sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat.
Bringing to Room Temperature
It’s essential to bring the skirt steak to room temperature before cooking it in the oven. This will help the steak cook more evenly and prevent it from cooking too quickly on the outside. To bring the steak to room temperature, simply let it sit on the counter for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Cooking Skirt Steak in the Oven
Now that your skirt steak is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the oven. Here’s a basic recipe for cooking skirt steak in the oven:
Basic Oven-Cooked Skirt Steak Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1-2 skirt steaks (depending on size and number of servings desired)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the skirt steak on a rimmed baking sheet or broiler pan.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the steak, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Place the butter on top of the steak, either in a single piece or sliced into smaller pieces.
- Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
- Place the steak in the oven and cook for 8-12 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the steak from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
The cooking time and temperature for skirt steak will depend on the thickness of the steak and your desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking skirt steak in the oven:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature | Cooking Time (per side) |
| — | — | — |
| Rare | 120-130°F (49-54°C) | 6-8 minutes |
| Medium-rare | 130-135°F (54-57°C) | 8-10 minutes |
| Medium | 140-145°F (60-63°C) | 10-12 minutes |
| Medium-well | 150-155°F (66-68°C) | 12-14 minutes |
| Well-done | 160-170°F (71-77°C) | 14-16 minutes |
Tips and Tricks for Cooking Skirt Steak in the Oven
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when cooking skirt steak in the oven:
Use a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your skirt steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak, avoiding any fat or bone.
Don’t Overcook
Skirt steak can quickly become tough and dry if it’s overcooked. Use the cooking times and temperatures above as a guide, and make sure to check the steak frequently to avoid overcooking.
Let it Rest
Letting the skirt steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving is essential for allowing the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness.
Use a Broiler Pan
A broiler pan is a great way to cook skirt steak in the oven, as it allows for even browning and crisping on the outside. Simply place the steak on the broiler pan and cook as directed.
Conclusion
Cooking skirt steak in the oven is a simple and delicious way to prepare this flavorful cut of beef. By following the tips and tricks outlined above, you can achieve a perfectly cooked skirt steak with a crispy crust on the outside and a tender, juicy interior. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, cooking skirt steak in the oven is a great way to impress your friends and family with a truly show-stopping dish.
What is Skirt Steak and Why is it Ideal for Oven Cooking?
Skirt steak is a type of beef steak that is cut from the diaphragm area of the cow. It is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that is ideal for oven cooking due to its thinness and even texture. Skirt steak is also relatively inexpensive compared to other cuts of steak, making it a great option for those on a budget.
When cooked in the oven, skirt steak can be cooked to a perfect medium-rare, which is the recommended level of doneness for this cut of meat. The even heat of the oven helps to cook the steak consistently throughout, ensuring that it is cooked to the same level of doneness from edge to edge.
How Do I Prepare Skirt Steak for Oven Cooking?
To prepare skirt steak for oven cooking, start by bringing the steak to room temperature. This helps the steak cook more evenly and prevents it from cooking too quickly on the outside. Next, season the steak with your desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add a marinade or rub to the steak if desired.
Once the steak is seasoned, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Make sure the steak is in a single layer and not overlapping, as this can prevent even cooking. If desired, add some aromatics such as onions or bell peppers to the baking sheet with the steak.
What is the Ideal Oven Temperature for Cooking Skirt Steak?
The ideal oven temperature for cooking skirt steak is between 400°F and 425°F. This high heat helps to sear the outside of the steak quickly, locking in the juices and flavors. It also helps to cook the steak to the desired level of doneness in a relatively short amount of time.
When cooking skirt steak in the oven, it’s also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for medium-rare skirt steak is 130°F to 135°F.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Skirt Steak in the Oven?
The cooking time for skirt steak in the oven will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick skirt steak will take around 8-12 minutes to cook to medium-rare. However, this time can vary depending on the specific steak and oven being used.
It’s also important to note that skirt steak can cook quickly, so it’s best to check the steak frequently to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, and remove it from the oven when it reaches the desired temperature.
Can I Cook Skirt Steak in the Oven with Other Ingredients?
Yes, skirt steak can be cooked in the oven with other ingredients, such as vegetables or potatoes. In fact, cooking the steak with other ingredients can add flavor and texture to the dish. Some popular ingredients to cook with skirt steak include onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and asparagus.
When cooking skirt steak with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thicker ingredients, such as potatoes, may take longer to cook than the steak, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do I Slice Skirt Steak After Cooking?
After cooking skirt steak in the oven, it’s best to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the steak to retain its tenderness. To slice the steak, use a sharp knife and slice against the grain. This means slicing in the direction of the lines of muscle in the steak.
Slicing against the grain helps to make the steak more tender and easier to chew. It’s also important to slice the steak thinly, as this helps to distribute the flavors and textures evenly.
Can I Reheat Skirt Steak After Cooking?
Yes, skirt steak can be reheated after cooking, but it’s best to do so carefully to avoid overcooking. The best way to reheat skirt steak is to use a low heat, such as 200°F to 250°F, and to reheat the steak for a short amount of time, such as 5-10 minutes.
It’s also important to note that reheating skirt steak can cause it to dry out, so it’s best to add a bit of moisture to the steak, such as a sauce or marinade, to help retain its tenderness and flavor.