Air Fryer Skirt Steak Recipe – Quick & Easy!

Air fryer skirt steak is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a tender, juicy steak with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a steakhouse-quality meal at home, this recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and cooks in under 10 minutes. With the help of the air fryer, you’ll have perfectly cooked steak that’s crisp on the outside and tender inside—every time.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Skirt Steak

• This recipe is incredibly quick, with your steak ready in less than 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• The air fryer cooks the steak evenly, resulting in a juicy, tender texture every time, with a delicious crispy exterior.
• You can easily adjust the doneness to your preference, whether you like your steak rare, medium, or well done.
• Skirt steak is naturally flavorful, and with just a few simple seasonings, you’ll enhance its rich taste without overpowering it.
• Cleanup is a breeze with the air fryer, so you can enjoy your meal without worrying about a sink full of dishes.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Skirt Steak

• Skirt Steak – This cut is naturally tender and flavorful, perfect for quick cooking in the air fryer.
• Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the steak.
• Black Pepper – Adds a slight heat and depth to the flavor.
• Garlic Powder – Brings a savory, aromatic element to the steak.
• Olive Oil – Keeps the steak moist while helping the seasonings stick and creating a nice crust.

See the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Skirt Steak

• Air Fryer – The key tool to cook the steak quickly and evenly, with a crispy exterior.
• Measuring Spoons – To measure out your seasonings.
• Knife – For slicing the steak after it has rested.
• Cutting Board – A stable surface for seasoning and slicing the steak.
• Tongs – Useful for flipping the steak in the air fryer.

How To Make Air Fryer Skirt Steak

• Start by seasoning both sides of the skirt steak with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the steak and rub it in to ensure the seasonings stick and the meat stays moist.
• Place the steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer for even cooking.
• Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 8 minutes, flipping the steak halfway through for an even sear.
• Once the steak is done, let it rest for about 3 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
• Slice the steak against the grain for the best texture and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this air fryer skirt steak with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, balanced meal.
• Serve it alongside a fresh salad with a light vinaigrette like Russian beet salad and Cauliflower tabbouleh salad to complement the rich flavors of the steak.
• You can slice the steak thinly and use it for tacos, fajitas, or as a topping for a salad.
• For a more indulgent meal, serve with mashed potatoes or cheesy garlic bread on the side.
• Top the steak with chimichurri or a dollop of herb butter for an added burst of flavor.

Tips For Success

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: If you’re cooking multiple steaks, make sure they are arranged in a single layer without overlapping. This ensures that the hot air can circulate around each piece for even cooking and a nice sear.
• Let the steak rest: After cooking, always allow the steak to rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing. This step is crucial because it helps the juices redistribute within the steak, keeping it tender and juicy.
• Adjust cooking time based on thickness: Skirt steaks vary in thickness, so if yours is thinner or thicker than usual, adjust the cooking time accordingly. A thinner steak might only need 5-6 minutes, while a thicker one might require closer to 10 minutes for well-done.
• Use a meat thermometer: For perfect results every time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium, remembering that the steak will continue cooking slightly while it rests.
• Season generously: Skirt steak is naturally flavorful, but it benefits from a good amount of seasoning. Don’t be afraid to go heavy on the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the taste of the meat.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Cuts of Steak: While this recipe uses skirt steak, you can easily substitute other cuts of beef like flank steak, ribeye, or even sirloin. Keep in mind that thicker cuts may require more cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
• Seasoning Options: This recipe keeps it simple with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, but feel free to customize it with your favorite steak seasonings. Try adding smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness or cumin for an earthy flavor. You could even use a premade steak seasoning blend for convenience.
• Marinated Steak: If you prefer marinated steak, you can marinate the skirt steak for a few hours or overnight in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs. This adds extra flavor and tenderness to the meat.
• Oil Substitutes: If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use another cooking oil like avocado oil or melted butter. Just be sure to choose an oil with a high smoke point to prevent burning in the air fryer.
• Dietary Adaptations: For those following specific diets, this recipe is naturally low carb and keto-friendly. To make it paleo or Whole30 compliant, ensure that your seasonings are free of added sugars or preservatives.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store the cooked skirt steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat the steak without drying it out, place it back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F. This will help retain its juicy texture while warming it through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short 20-second bursts, but be cautious as this method can cause the steak to become tough.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftover steak for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a thicker cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thicker cuts of steak, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. A thicker steak may require closer to 10-12 minutes for medium doneness, while thinner steaks can be done in 5-6 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to check for your desired level of doneness.

How do I know when the steak is done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130°F, and for medium, aim for 140°F. Keep in mind that the steak will continue cooking a bit while it rests, so remove it from the air fryer just below your target temperature.

Can I marinate the steak before cooking?

Yes, marinating the skirt steak is a great way to infuse extra flavor and tenderness. Just be sure to pat the steak dry before air frying to avoid excess moisture in the air fryer, which can prevent a crispy exterior.

What if I don’t have olive oil?

No problem! You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil, vegetable oil, or even melted butter. Just be sure to choose an oil with a high smoke point to prevent burning during cooking.

How long should I let the steak rest before slicing?

It’s important to let the steak rest for about 3 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy bite with every slice.

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