13+ Skirt Steak Recipes Tender And Delicious

There’s something special about skirt steak night in our house. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a lazy Saturday, the sizzle of steak hitting a hot pan always brings everyone to the kitchen. I first discovered how versatile and tender skirt steak can be during a family taco night—after just a quick marinade, even the pickiest eaters couldn’t get enough. Over the years, I’ve collected more than 13 skirt steak recipes tender and delicious enough to convince any skeptic that this humble cut can turn into a star at the table.

1. Classic Grilled Skirt Steak

Why You’ll Love It:

This is your backyard BBQ’s secret weapon. Quick to prep, easy to cook, and juicy in every bite—no complicated steps, just a simple steak that everyone wants seconds of. The kids love it with ketchup; adults might sneak a slice before it even hits the platter.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.5 lbs skirt steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Flaky sea salt, for finishing

How to Make It:

1. Pat the skirt steak dry and rub both sides with olive oil.
2. Mix together kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, and sprinkle over both sides of the steak.
3. Preheat your grill to high heat.
4. Grill steak for 3–4 minutes per side, until nicely charred outside and medium-rare inside.
5. Rest steak for 5 minutes, slice against the grain, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Flavor Boost: Marinate the steak in olive oil, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce for 30 minutes before grilling.

Best Pairings: Serve with corn on the cob, grilled asparagus, or potato wedges.

2. Skirt Steak Fajitas

Why You’ll Love It:

These crowd-pleasing, sizzling skillet fajitas are ideal for family-style dinners or a casual get-together. Colorful bell peppers and onions soak up steak juices—everyone assembles their own, which is half the fun.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.25 lbs skirt steak
• 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 8 small flour tortillas

How to Make It:

1. Slice skirt steak into 1/2-inch strips. Toss with fajita seasoning and 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high.
3. Add onion and peppers; sauté 5–6 minutes until softened.
4. Push veggies to the side, add steak, and cook 2–3 minutes until browned.
5. Toss everything together and serve with warm tortillas.

Meal Prep Tip: Pre-slice peppers and onions a day ahead for easy weeknight cooking.

3. Garlic-Lime Skirt Steak Tacos

Why You’ll Love It:

Perfect for a taco party or weeknight win, these skirt steak tacos are packed with zesty flavor from a quick garlic-lime marinade. Top with fresh cilantro and crunchy cabbage for extra brightness.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice and zest of 2 limes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make It:

1. Mix olive oil, lime juice & zest, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. Coat steak and marinate for 10–20 minutes.
2. Grill or pan-cook steak over high heat, 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Rest steak, then slice thinly across the grain.
4. Warm tortillas, fill with steak, cabbage, and cilantro. Add a lime wedge.

Swap This With That: Try flour tortillas or add sliced radishes for extra crunch.

Serving Idea: These taste great with a side of black beans.

4. Chimichurri Skirt Steak

Why You’ll Love It:

This recipe features a classic pairing—herby chimichurri spooned over juicy steak. It’s dinner party easy but feels restaurant-worthy, and the sauce can be made in advance.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.5 lbs skirt steak
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• 1 tsp dried oregano

How to Make It:

1. Season steak with salt, set aside.
2. For chimichurri: Pulse parsley, garlic, vinegar, 1/3 cup oil, chili flakes, and oregano in a food processor.
3. Grill or pan-sear steak 3–4 minutes per side.
4. Rest, slice, and top with chimichurri.

Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon to the chimichurri for brightness.

Best Pairings: Pairs nicely with roasted potatoes or grilled zucchini.

5. Skirt Steak and Roasted Veggie Bowl

Why You’ll Love It:

This is your meal-prep dream—roasted veggies, grain of choice, and perfectly cooked steak. Make it ahead for fast lunches or busy days when you need a healthy, filling meal.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 large sweet potato, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced

How to Make It:

1. Toss sweet potato and broccoli with 1 tbsp oil, salt, and pepper; roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes.
2. Season steak with remaining oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pan-sear or grill steak, 3–4 minutes per side; rest, then slice thin.
4. Fill bowls with quinoa, veggies, steak slices, and sprinkle green onions on top.

Meal Prep Tip: Store components separately and assemble just before eating.

Personal Note: I love drizzling a little tahini sauce over the top for extra richness.

6. Korean BBQ Skirt Steak

Why You’ll Love It:

Salty-sweet marinade with a punch of garlic and sesame turns this steak into pure melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Serve with rice and kimchi for a fun DIY Korean-inspired meal.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 33 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 cups cooked white rice

How to Make It:

1. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and vinegar for marinade.
2. Marinate steak 15–20 minutes.
3. Grill or broil steak, 3–4 minutes per side.
4. Rest, slice thin, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with rice.

Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of gochujang for a spicy kick.

Best Pairings: Serve with kimchi pancakes or sautéed spinach.

7. Skirt Steak with Creamy Herb Sauce

Why You’ll Love It:

Got fresh herbs? Blend them into a creamy yogurt-based sauce and you’ll have a steak dinner that feels fresh but indulgent. This is great when the garden is overflowing or herbs are on sale.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.25 lbs skirt steak
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup mixed fresh herbs (parsley, dill, tarragon), chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove

How to Make It:

1. Season steak with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
2. Grill or pan-sear steak 3–4 minutes per side; rest and slice.
3. Blend yogurt, herbs, lemon juice, and garlic for sauce.
4. Serve steak with herb sauce on the side.

Swap This With That: Use crème fraîche or sour cream instead of Greek yogurt for a subtler tang.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook the steak—medium-rare keeps it tender.

8. Skirt Steak Stir Fry

Why You’ll Love It:

This fast-cooking stir fry is a go-to for using up veggies in the fridge. The steak stays juicy and tender with a quick sear and absorbs all the Asian-inspired sauce.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak, cut in strips
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp canola oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 tbsp stir fry sauce
• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

How to Make It:

1. Toss steak strips with soy sauce and cornstarch, set aside.
2. Heat oil in large skillet or wok, sauté steak 2–3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, snap peas, carrot; stir fry 4–5 minutes.
4. Stir in sauce, cook until veggies are just tender.
5. Serve over rice, topped with sesame seeds.

Meal Prep Tip: Pre-slice steak and veggies to cut weeknight cooking time in half.

9. Balsamic Marinated Skirt Steak

Why You’ll Love It:

A tangy-sweet balsamic marinade makes this steak incredibly flavorful and super easy to cook either inside or out. It’s great for fancier dinners but just as nice tucked into a salad.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.5 lbs skirt steak
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 cup baby arugula

How to Make It:

1. Whisk together vinegar, oil, honey, mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate steak 15–20 minutes.
3. Grill or sear steak 3–4 minutes per side.
4. Rest, slice against the grain, and serve over fresh arugula.

Serving Idea: Delicious served over garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

10. Skirt Steak Street Tacos

Why You’ll Love It:

Channel your favorite taco truck at home—simple marinated steak, charred tortillas, and vibrant toppings. It’s all about the toppings bar and casual, grab-and-go bites for groups.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup white onion, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 limes, cut in wedges

How to Make It:

1. Rub steak with oil, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
2. Grill or pan-sear, 2–3 minutes per side.
3. Rest, thinly slice, and serve in warm tortillas with onion, cilantro, and lime.

Flavor Boost: Add a little chipotle powder to the spice rub.

Best Pairings: Serve with charred jalapeños and Mexican street corn.

11. Skirt Steak Salad with Avocado

Why You’ll Love It:

When you’re craving something lighter, this steak salad hits the spot. Creamy avocado, peppery greens, and juicy steak—perfect for summer lunches or relaxed dinner al fresco.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 6 cups mixed salad greens
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup vinaigrette dressing

How to Make It:

1. Rub steak with olive oil and salt.
2. Grill or sear steak 3–4 minutes per side, then rest and slice thinly.
3. Assemble salad with greens, tomato, avocado, onion, and steak.
4. Drizzle with vinaigrette just before serving.

Swap This With That: Use baby spinach or arugula in place of mixed greens.

Personal Note: This is my favorite way to use leftover steak.

12. Sheet Pan Skirt Steak and Veggies

Why You’ll Love It:

Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor—everything roasts on one pan. Busy cooks love this for a wholesome, hands-off dinner that gets everyone eating more veggies.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large potatoes, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley

How to Make It:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss potatoes, peppers, onion with oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
2. Roast veggies 15 minutes.
3. Add steak strips to sheet, roast another 10 minutes.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use whatever leftover veggies you have in the fridge.

13. Skirt Steak Empanadas

Why You’ll Love It:

A fun weekend project, these hand pies are stuffed with savory skirt steak and are terrific for make-ahead snacks or game nights. Freeze extras for rainy days.

Serving size: Makes 10 empanadas

Prep Time: 40 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 1 hours 5 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak, diced small
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 package empanada dough rounds (about 10 rounds)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

How to Make It:

1. Heat oil in skillet, cook steak, onions, bell pepper, and garlic until no longer pink. Stir in paprika, cumin, and tomato paste. Cool filling.
2. Fill empanada rounds with mixture, fold and seal edges. Brush with egg wash.
3. Bake at 400°F for 22–25 minutes until golden.

Meal Prep Tip: Freeze before baking and cook straight from the freezer.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overfill the dough or they’ll burst open.

14. Skirt Steak and Potato Skewers

Why You’ll Love It:

Fire up the grill for these fun skewers—the combo of steak and baby potatoes makes them a full meal on a stick. They’re perfect for picnics, potlucks, or grilling out with friends.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.5 lbs skirt steak, cut in 1.5-inch cubes
• 1 lb baby potatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary

How to Make It:

1. Steam or microwave baby potatoes until just tender.
2. Toss steak and potatoes with oil, paprika, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
3. Thread steak and potatoes onto metal or soaked wooden skewers.
4. Grill on high, 6–8 minutes, turning once.

Serving Idea: Serve with a lemony yogurt sauce or garlic aioli.

15. Carne Asada Skirt Steak

Why You’ll Love It:

This recipe delivers classic carne asada flavor with a citrusy marinade that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or just alongside rice and beans. It’s the taste of every great summer cookout.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.5 lbs skirt steak
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 jalapeño, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder

How to Make It:

1. Combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, cumin, chili powder for marinade.
2. Marinate steak 15–30 minutes.
3. Grill 3–4 minutes per side, rest, and slice thin.
4. Serve with tortillas, limes, and jalapeños.

Flavor Boost: Finish steak with a sprinkle of flaky Maldon salt and extra cilantro.

16. Skirt Steak Banh Mi Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love It:

If you love bold flavors, this Vietnamese-inspired sandwich will win you over. Tangy pickled veggies and spicy mayo highlight the steak’s rich flavor—all packed into a crusty baguette.

Serving size: Makes 4 sandwiches

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 lb skirt steak
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 small baguette, split
• 1/2 cup pickled carrots and daikon
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced thin
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp sriracha

How to Make It:

1. Marinate steak with soy sauce and sugar for 10–15 minutes.
2. Grill or cook steak 3 minutes per side; rest, then slice thin.
3. Mix mayo with sriracha for spicy spread.
4. Layer baguette with steak, pickled veggies, cucumber, cilantro, and spicy mayo.

Swap This With That: Use hoagie rolls or ciabatta if baguette isn’t available.

17. Skirt Steak with Red Wine Mushroom Sauce

Why You’ll Love It:

When you want a steakhouse vibe at home, this is it—tender steak and a rich, savory mushroom sauce feel special but take less than an hour.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1.25 lbs skirt steak
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 shallots, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 sprigs thyme

How to Make It:

1. Season steak with salt and 1 tbsp oil.
2. Sear steak 3–4 minutes per side; rest and slice.
3. In same pan, add remaining oil, shallots, mushrooms; sauté 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cook 1 minutes, then pour in wine and broth. Simmer 4–5 minutes.
5. Stir in butter and thyme. Spoon sauce over steak.

Serving Idea: Try over creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

FAQ

What’s the best way to tenderize skirt steak?

A short marinade with acid (like lime or vinegar), and slicing against the grain, will both help skirt steak stay juicy and tender.

Can I freeze cooked skirt steak?

Yes, leftover skirt steak freezes well. Cool completely, slice, and wrap tightly in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

How do I know when skirt steak is done?

Skirt steak cooks quickly—use a meat thermometer if you can. For medium-rare, aim for 130–135°F, and always rest before slicing.

What marinades work well for skirt steak?

Acidic marinades (lime, vinegar, orange juice) plus bold seasonings like garlic, soy sauce, or spices work best to infuse flavor and break down the fibers.

Conclusion

Skirt steak is so much more than a budget cut—it’s the kind of ingredient that easily stars in dozens of dishes, from smoky BBQ classics to bold global flavors. With these 13+ skirt steak recipes tender and delicious, you can have a meal for every mood and occasion, all with short cook times and big flavor. Don’t hesitate to try a new marinade, switch up your sides, or use leftovers for lunch the next day. Confidence comes with practice in the kitchen, and every juicy slice will bring you closer to your own signature steak dinner. Keep cooking, stay curious, and enjoy sharing great food around your table.