Oven-Baked Skirt Steak with Garlic & Herbs

If you love the bold flavors of garlic and fresh herbs but don’t have access to a grill, this Oven-Baked Skirt Steak with Garlic & Herbs is your perfect solution. Juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, this steak is oven-friendly yet tastes as if it were grilled to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Oven-Baked Skirt Steak with Garlic & Herbs

This recipe combines the rich, meaty flavor of skirt steak with a vibrant herb and garlic marinade. Skirt steak is naturally flavorful and thin, making it ideal for quick cooking without losing juiciness. By baking it in the oven, you achieve a delicious crust and tender center without the need for a grill.

• Quick and convenient: ready in under 45 minutes
• Bold garlic-herb flavor without overpowering the meat
• Perfectly juicy and tender every time
• Easy to pair with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Skirt Steak with Garlic & Herbs

For the Steak

• 1.5–2 pounds (700–900g) skirt steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Zest and juice of ½ lemon

Optional for Roasted Vegetables

• 2 cups baby potatoes, quartered
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

• Olive oil: Can substitute avocado or grapeseed oil.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs provide best flavor; dried herbs can be used but reduce quantity by half.
• Garlic: Roasted garlic works for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Pork/Alcohol substitutions: This recipe is naturally pork-free and alcohol-free, perfect for family meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Marinade

1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
2. Pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels, then rub the herb-garlic mixture evenly over both sides.
3. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

Step 2 – Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. If using vegetables, toss potatoes, broccoli, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread them on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the vegetables for 15–20 minutes, tossing halfway, until tender and lightly browned.

Step 3 – Cook the Skirt Steak

1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron) on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
2. Optional but recommended: sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side to create a flavorful crust.
3. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake 6–10 minutes depending on thickness for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for precision: 125–130°F (52–54°C) for medium-rare.

Step 4 – Rest and Slice

1. Remove steak from the oven and rest 5–10 minutes on a cutting board.
2. Slice thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.

Step 5 – Serve

• Plate the steak alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Drizzle any pan juices over the sliced steak for extra flavor.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Slice against the grain – Skirt steak has long muscle fibers; cutting across them ensures tenderness.
2. Don’t overcook – This thin cut is best medium-rare to medium.
3. Marinate longer for more flavor – 2–4 hours is ideal for herb infusion.
4. Sear first for crust – Even in the oven, a quick sear adds caramelization.
5. Use a thermometer – Avoid guessing doneness; skirt steak cooks quickly.
6. Rest the meat – Helps retain juices and improves tenderness.

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne or chili flakes to the marinade.
2. Asian Twist: Replace herbs with 2 tablespoons soy sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
3. Citrus Herb: Add orange or lime zest for a fresh, bright flavor.
4. Garlic Butter Finish: Melt butter with garlic and drizzle over steak before serving.
5. Smoky Touch: Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the marinade for a grill-like flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with mashed or roasted potatoes, asparagus, or a simple green salad.
• Pair with chimichurri, garlic butter, or balsamic glaze.
• Great for taco night or sliced over grain bowls with roasted vegetables.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooked steak in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Slice and wrap in foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag for 2–3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to maintain juiciness.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1/4 recipe)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbohydrates	10 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	420 mg

Values approximate and can vary with specific cuts of meat and portion sizes.

FAQ About Oven-Baked Skirt Steak with Garlic & Herbs

How long should I bake skirt steak in the oven?

For medium-rare, bake 6–10 minutes at 425°F (220°C) after searing. Use a meat thermometer to check for 125–130°F (52–54°C).

Can I use another cut of steak?

Yes! Flank steak, hanger steak, or sirloin can work. Adjust cook times for thickness: thicker cuts need more time.

Do I have to sear the steak first?

Searing is optional but recommended. It creates a delicious crust and enhances flavor, even if finishing in the oven.

How do I keep the steak juicy?

Marinate well, avoid overcooking, and always let it rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Can I make this recipe without garlic or herbs?

You can, but the garlic-herb combination is key to the flavor. Consider substituting with onion powder, paprika, or dried Italian herbs if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Oven-Baked Skirt Steak with Garlic & Herbs is a simple yet impressive dish that delivers all the flavor of grilled steak without leaving your kitchen. With juicy, tender meat, a vibrant herb-garlic punch, and versatile serving options, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend entertaining.

Enjoy it with roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or your favorite sides for a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.