How Long Cook Skirt Steak On Grill

ByLily

Skirt steak’s thin profile means it grills fast over high heat, usually just a few minutes per side. So if you’re wondering how long cook skirt steak on grill, the short answer is 3 to 5 minutes per side for medium-rare. That’s it. This cut rewards speed and attention, not long, slow cooking.

Below you’ll find exact times, temps, and a simple grilling method that works every time.

How Long Cook Skirt Steak On Grill

The total cook time runs about 6 to 10 minutes depending on thickness and doneness. Skirt steak is long, flat, and fibrous, so it cooks through quickly. Overcooking turns it chewy and dry.

Quick Time Chart By Doneness

  • Rare (120-125°F): 2 to 3 minutes per side
  • Medium-rare (130-135°F): 3 to 4 minutes per side
  • Medium (140-145°F): 4 to 5 minutes per side
  • Medium-well (150-155°F): 5 to 6 minutes per side
  • Well done (160°F+): 6 to 7 minutes per side

These times assume a grill at 450-500°F and a steak about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Thicker pieces need a bit more time. Thinner ones need less.

Why Skirt Steak Cooks So Fast

Skirt steak comes from the diaphragm muscle. It’s thin and has a lot of surface area compared to its weight. That means heat reaches the center quickly.

It also has tough muscle fibers and a good amount of fat marbling. High heat gives you a nice crust outside while keeping the inside juicy. Low and slow makes it tough.

Step-By-Step Grilling Method

Follow these steps for a tender, flavorful skirt steak every time.

  1. Pull the steak from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Room temp meat cooks more evenly.
  2. Pat it dry with paper towels. Dry meat sears better.
  3. Season both sides with salt and pepper. You can add a little garlic powder or chili powder if you like.
  4. Preheat your grill to high, around 450-500°F. Clean the grates and oil them lightly.
  5. Place the steak on the hot grill. Close the lid for 2 minutes.
  6. Flip once. Cook another 2 to 4 minutes depending on doneness.
  7. Check the internal temp with a meat thermometer. Pull it 5°F before your target temp since it keeps cooking off heat.
  8. Rest the steak on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes. This keeps the juices in.
  9. Slice against the grain into thin strips. This is the most important step for tenderness.

Tips For Better Results

  • Don’t walk away. Skirt steak goes from perfect to overcooked in under a minute.
  • Use a thermometer. Guessing doneness on a thin cut is hard.
  • Slice against the grain. Look for the lines running across the meat and cut perpendicular to them.
  • Let the grill get hot. A weak fire steams the meat instead of searing it.
  • Marinate if you have time. Even 30 minutes in lime juice, oil, and garlic helps.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Many people cook skirt steak like a ribeye. That’s a mistake. It doesn’t need 15 minutes on the grill.

  • Cooking it cold right from the fridge
  • Using medium or low heat
  • Forgetting to rest the meat
  • Slicing with the grain instead of against it
  • Not drying the surface before grilling

How To Tell When It’s Done

Use a meat thermometer for the best accuracy. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak, away from any fat.

  • 120-125°F for rare
  • 130-135°F for medium-rare
  • 140-145°F for medium
  • 150-155°F for medium-well

If you don’t have a thermometer, press the meat with your finger. Rare feels soft and squishy. Medium-rare has a little spring. Well done feels firm.

Resting And Slicing

Rest the steak for at least 5 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute. If you cut it right away, the juice runs out and the meat tastes dry.

Then find the grain. The grain is the direction the muscle fibers run. Cut across those lines, not along them. Thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick, work best for tacos, salads, or eating plain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Cook Skirt Steak On A Gas Grill?

Yes. A gas grill works fine. Just make sure it’s fully preheated to high heat before you put the steak on.

Should I Close The Lid While Grilling?

You can. Closing the lid traps heat and speeds cooking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.

Do I Need To Marinate Skirt Steak?

No, but it helps. A simple marinade of oil, acid, and salt adds flavor and tenderness. Even 30 minutes makes a difference.

What If My Skirt Steak Is Thicker Than Usual?

Add 1 to 2 minutes per side. Always rely on a thermometer rather than time alone.

With high heat and a short cook, skirt steak is one of the fastest cuts you can grill. Keep it simple, watch the clock, and slice against the grain for the best bite.

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