How to Cook Skirt Steak in the Oven: Perfect Recipe for Tender Results

Who says skirt steak is only for the grill? This oven-baked skirt steak recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners. With just a few ingredients and a two-step method, you'll get a tender, flavorful steak without a grill.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs skirt steak
1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional: fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the steak: Pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and brown sugar. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the steak. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes (or refrigerate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor).
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet.
Bake: Place the steak on the wire rack and bake for 8-10 minutes per side for medium-rare (or until internal temperature reaches 130°F). For thicker cuts, adjust time accordingly.
Broil for char: Switch oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until edges are nicely charred. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Rest and slice: Transfer steak to cutting board and rest for 5-10 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin strips.
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Notes

Don't skip the resting time: Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping steak tender.
Cutting against the grain: Slice perpendicular to muscle fibers for maximum tenderness.
Thermometer is key: Remove at 130°F for medium-rare (temperature rises to 135°F while resting).

Perfectly cooked oven-baked skirt steak with charred edges

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you cook skirt steak in the oven?

Yes, absolutely. While traditionally grilled, skirt steak can be cooked in the oven using a two-step method (baking then broiling) for even cooking and a charred finish.

How long to cook skirt steak in the oven?

For medium-rare, bake at 400°F for 8-10 minutes per side, then broil for 2-3 minutes to char the edges. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy—aim for 130-135°F internally.

What temperature should skirt steak reach for perfect doneness?

For tender results, remove from oven at 130°F (medium-rare). Tent with foil and rest for 5-10 minutes—the temperature will rise to 135°F while resting. Avoid exceeding 140°F to prevent toughness.

Do I need to marinate skirt steak before oven cooking?

Not necessarily. Dry brining (salt/pepper rubbed on 2-24 hours ahead) works better than wet marinades for oven cooking, as it creates a superior crust without steaming the surface.

Why is my oven-cooked skirt steak tough?

This typically happens when overcooked (skirt steak is lean) or sliced incorrectly. Always cut against the grain in thin strips perpendicular to the muscle fibers for maximum tenderness.

Can I use frozen skirt steak for this method?

Thaw completely in the refrigerator first. Cooking frozen steak leads to uneven results—exterior overcooks while interior remains cold. Plan ahead for best texture.

Maya Gonzalez

A Latin American cuisine specialist who has spent a decade researching indigenous spice traditions from Mexico to Argentina. Maya's field research has taken her from remote Andean villages to the coastal communities of Brazil, documenting how pre-Columbian spice traditions merged with European, African, and Asian influences. Her expertise in chili varieties is unparalleled - she can identify over 60 types by appearance, aroma, and heat patterns. Maya excels at explaining the historical and cultural significance behind signature Latin American spice blends like recado rojo and epazote combinations. Her hands-on demonstrations show how traditional preparation methods like dry toasting and stone grinding enhance flavor profiles. Maya is particularly passionate about preserving endangered varieties of local Latin American spices and the traditional knowledge associated with their use.

How to Cook Skirt Steak in the Oven: Perfect Recipe for Tender Results