Do Share Recipe

Skirt Steak Marinade Recipe – Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy

When I first tried this skirt steak marinade, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to create something that tasted like it came from a high-end steakhouse.

The blend of tangy balsamic vinegar, bold soy sauce, and aromatic garlic infused the meat with unforgettable flavor. After just a quick grill, the steak was juicy, tender, and loaded with depth.

It’s now my go-to recipe for gatherings, casual dinners, or whenever I’m craving that perfect steak experience. Looking for fresh ideas? Check out this Steak Dinner Marinade Recipe.

Ingredients for Skirt Steak Marinade Recipe

Here are some ingredients for skirt steak marinade:

For the marinade:

¼ cup balsamic vinegar
¼ cup soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the steak:

1 ½ pounds skirt steak

Note: Ingredients yield 4 servings; adjust quantities as needed.

Variations to Try

Want to customize or tweak this marinade? Here are some great ideas to try out!

Low-sodium version: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce to cut back on salt.
Add heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Sweet touch: Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar for subtle caramelization.
Citrus twist: Swap apple cider vinegar for fresh lime or lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Herbal aroma: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme for earthy notes.

You’ll love trying these flavorful dinner recipes at home.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long you’ll need for this recipe from prep to table.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes to 2 hours 20 minutes

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools makes cooking seamless and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large mixing bowl: For whisking the marinade ingredients together.
Ziploc bag or container: To marinate the steak and lock in flavor.
Tongs: For flipping and handling the steak while grilling.
Grill or cast-iron skillet: Essential for cooking your skirt steak to perfection.
Measuring spoons: To ensure proper ingredient ratios.

How to Make Skirt Steak Marinade?

Getting the most out of this marinade is all about letting the flavors meld together while the steak rests before grilling. Follow these simple, clear steps for success!

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Combine until smooth. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors creates a balanced marinade perfect for skirt steak.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place your skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow container. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Squeeze out any excess air from the bag and seal tightly. This helps the steak absorb maximum flavor. Allow it to marinate for 30 minutes on the counter or up to 2 hours in the fridge.

Step 3: Bring Steak to Room Temperature

Before grilling, remove the marinated steak from the fridge and bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures the steak cooks evenly and retains optimal tenderness. Discard the marinade from the bag; do not reuse it.

Step 4: Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan surface to prevent sticking. Place the steak on the preheated surface and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred level of doneness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Allow the meat to rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. Resting locks in juices, making every slice tender and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

You’ll fall in love with this marinade for all these reasons and more!

Easy to prepare: This no-fuss recipe simplifies cooking without skimping on flavor.
Versatile: Use it with other cuts of steak or even pork and chicken.
Bursting with flavor: A perfect mix of tangy, salty, and garlicky goodness.
Perfect for entertaining: A guaranteed hit at BBQs or dinner parties.

How to Serve Skirt Steak Marinade?

Presentation and accompaniments can elevate your deliciously marinated skirt steak. Try these serving ideas:

Slice the steak thinly and serve atop a bed of grilled vegetables.
Pair it with creamy garlic mashed potatoes or buttered rice for a hearty meal.
Add steak slices to warm tortillas along with salsa and guacamole for authentic tacos.
Serve with a crisp side salad, like wedge lettuce with blue cheese dressing.

You’ll love the taste in this easy Steak Marinade for Kabobs Recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown of the recipe.

Calories: 88
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fat: 7g

Make Ahead and Storage

This marinade works well if prepped ahead of time, and leftovers can be stored with ease.

Prepare the marinade up to 4 days in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a quick shake or stir before using. For cooked steak, store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reheat in a skillet on medium heat for a few minutes, or enjoy it cold in salads and wraps.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Based on my experience, here are a few tips to ensure your skirt steak is perfect every time:

Slice against the grain: This ensures the steak remains tender and easy to chew.
Don’t overcrowd the grill: Space out the meat for even cooking and charring.
Use a thermometer: For precise doneness, aim for 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, or 145°F for medium.
Balance flavors: Adjust the salt or add a squeeze of lime for brighter notes.

Do You Soak Skirt Steak?

No need to soak it in water, but marinating is essential for enhancing the flavors and tenderizing this cut of beef. Skirt steak naturally has a slightly tougher texture, and marinating helps break down the muscle fibers while infusing it with seasoning.

Is It OK to Marinate Skirt Steak Overnight?

Yes, but avoid exceeding 24 hours. The acidic ingredients in the marinade could break down the meat too much, leading to a mushy texture. For best results, keep the marinade time between 30 minutes and 2 hours.

Is There Another Name for Skirt Steak?

You might see this cut labeled as fajita steak, London broil, or even flank steak at some butcher shops. While flank steak is similar, it’s slightly thicker and less rich in marbling compared to skirt steak, but it still works perfectly in this recipe.

With this irresistible marinade, your skirt steak will shine every time! Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees satisfaction and flavors that exceed expectations. Enjoy!

Ben Carraoli