What's the Best Substitute for Skirt Steak?
Whether you're out of Skirt Steak or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Long, flat cut of beef from the diaphragm with intense beefy flavor and coarse grain, perfect for grilling and marinating In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for skirt steak are flank steak, hanger steak, flat iron steak, or sirloin depending on availability and cooking method.
Best Substitutes for Skirt Steak
Flank Steak
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilling
- marinating
- stir-fries
- fajitas
- carne asada
Description
Similar cut from the abdominal area with intense beefy flavor and coarse grain
Very similar to skirt steak in flavor and texture. Slightly thicker cut.
Hanger Steak
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilling
- pan-searing
- marinating
- when you want tender texture
Description
Cut from the diaphragm with intense beefy flavor and tender texture
More tender than skirt steak but similar flavor. May be more expensive.
Flat Iron Steak
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilling
- pan-searing
- marinating
- when you want marbling
Description
Cut from the shoulder with good marbling and tender texture
More tender and marbled than skirt steak. Good for grilling and pan-searing.
Sirloin Steak
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilling
- pan-searing
- marinating
- when you want leaner option
Description
Cut from the hip area with good flavor and moderate tenderness
Leaner than skirt steak but still flavorful. Good for grilling and marinating.
Chuck Steak
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- braising
- slow cooking
- when you want budget option
- stews
Description
Cut from the shoulder with good flavor but requires longer cooking
Less tender than skirt steak but very flavorful. Requires longer cooking time.
Ribeye Steak
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- grilling
- pan-searing
- when you want premium option
- when you want marbling
Description
Cut from the rib section with excellent marbling and tenderness
More expensive than skirt steak but very tender and flavorful. Good marbling.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Skirt Steak, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Choose your substitute based on cooking method and budget
For grilling: flank steak, hanger steak, or flat iron steak work best
For marinating: any substitute works well, but flank steak is most similar
For stir-fries: flank steak or sirloin work well
For fajitas: flank steak is the traditional choice
For budget option: chuck steak works but requires longer cooking
For premium option: ribeye steak works but is more expensive
For tenderness: hanger steak or flat iron steak work best
For flavor: flank steak or hanger steak are most similar to skirt steak
Always slice against the grain for tenderness
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications