How to Cook Skirt Steak in the Air Fryer Perfectly
Skirt steak is one of those flavorful cuts that deserves careful cooking. When prepared right, especially using an air fryer, it turns out juicy on the inside and slightly crispy outside.
For this recipe, we use simple ingredients like skirt steak, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt and pepper.
The process includes seasoning the steak, resting it, and then air frying it until your desired doneness.
No long marinating, no complex prep—just an easy, straightforward method that gives great results.
Cooking Time Overview
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 8-10 minutes | 20 minutes | Main | American | 2 |
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | For 2 Servings | For 4 Servings | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skirt Steak | 1 lb | 2 lbs | Flank steak |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | 2 tbsp | Avocado oil |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | Minced garlic |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp | 2 tsp | Chopped onions |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | To taste | Sea salt, black pepper |
Cooking Instruments You Need
| Tool | Purpose | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Air Fryer | Cooking the steak | Oven with broil setting |
| Meat Thermometer | Check internal temperature | Knife (for checking doneness manually) |
| Tongs | Flip steak safely | Fork |
| Cutting Board | Rest and slice steak | Any clean flat surface |
How Long to Cook Skirt Steak in Air Fryer
Different air fryers vary in performance, so you may need to slightly adjust the temperature or time based on your model. Here are some guidelines:
- Basket Style Air Fryers: These cook quicker due to better air circulation. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping halfway. This gives you medium doneness.
- Oven Style Air Fryers: These take a little longer. Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Dual-zone Air Fryers: Use similar timing to basket-style. However, always check the internal temp.
I personally prefer 400°F for a quicker sear and juicier interior. Always let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
How to Make It – Step-by-Step Instructions
Before jumping into the steps, make sure your skirt steak is at room temperature. This helps it cook evenly. Here’s how you do it:
Step 1: Season the Skirt Steak
Rub the steak with olive oil and sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pat it down so the seasoning sticks well.
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps create a good crust on the steak.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping. Cook for about 4 minutes per side (8 minutes total). Flip halfway using tongs.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once done, remove the steak and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes. Then slice against the grain for tenderness.
Serving and Decoration Tips
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or rice.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
- Add a drizzle of garlic butter or chimichurri for a flavor boost.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add smoked paprika and cayenne to the seasoning.
- Asian Inspired: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
- Lemon Pepper: Replace onion powder with lemon zest and add cracked black pepper.
Storing Tips
- Let leftovers cool completely.
- Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
Extra Tips for Better Results
- Don’t overcrowd the basket.
- Use a thermometer: aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Always slice against the grain to prevent toughness.
Common Mistakes, Solutions & Prevention
| Mistake | Problem | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Overcooking | Makes steak dry and tough | Use a thermometer to check doneness |
| Not Preheating Air Fryer | Leads to uneven cooking | Always preheat for 3-5 minutes |
| Skipping Rest Time | Juices run out | Rest the steak before slicing |
| Slicing with the Grain | Results in chewy steak | Always slice against the grain |
FAQs
Can I marinate the skirt steak before air frying?
Yes, but limit it to 30 minutes for thin cuts like skirt steak.
Do I need to use oil?
A little oil helps with crisping and seasoning adhesion.
Can I cook frozen skirt steak in the air fryer?
Yes, but increase cook time by 4-6 minutes and expect less browning.
How do I prevent steak from curling in air fryer?
Score the edges slightly to help reduce curling.
Is it necessary to flip the steak?
Yes. Flipping ensures even browning and consistent texture.
Let’s Make and Share!
If you’ve been wondering how to cook skirt steak in the air fryer, now you have a simple, solid method to follow.
Try this out, enjoy your flavorful steak, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments!
