Sizzle steaks, also known as fajita or skirt steaks, are a popular and flavorful cut of beef. Their name comes from the sizzling sound they make when cooking. Sizzle steaks are a thin cut with a lot of marbling, making them juicy and tender when cooked properly. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook sizzle steaks perfectly every time.
1. How To Cook Sizzle Steaks in Pan
Pan-searing is one of the easiest ways to cook sizzle steaks indoors. The hot pan helps develop a crispy brown sear while keeping the interior nice and pink.
Ingredients
- Sizzle steaks, about 6 oz each
- Oil for cooking (butter, olive oil, etc)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, thyme
Instructions
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Add any other seasonings, herbs or spices you want at this point too.
Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over high heat until very hot. Add just enough oil to lightly coat the bottom.
When the oil just starts to smoke, add the steaks. Let them cook untouched for 2-3 minutes to develop a nice sear.
Flip the steaks and cook 2-3 minutes more on the second side. The total cooking time will depend on thickness and doneness – aim for 4-8 minutes total for medium rare.
Remove the steaks from the pan and let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
The browned crust from pan-searing adds great texture and flavor. This method works well for 1-2 steaks. Use a lower heat setting if cooking more to prevent overcrowding.
2. How To Cook Sizzle Steaks in Oven
For hands-off cooking and larger batches, the oven is a great option. Oven roasting gives a similar browned exterior while gently cooking the interior.
Ingredients
- Sizzle steaks, about 6 oz each
- Oil for cooking
- Seasonings of choice
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 450°F. Line a sheet pan with foil.
Pat the steaks dry and brush lightly with oil. Season as desired.
Place the steaks on the pan and cook for 7-10 minutes per side for medium rare doneness. Checking with a meat thermometer, you’re aiming for an internal temp of 135°F.
Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
The high heat helps achieve a nice brown crust on the exterior of the meat. Cook times will vary based on thickness. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
This hands-off method is perfect for cooking multiple steaks at once. The oven distributes heat evenly, so the steaks cook uniformly.
3. How To Cook Sizzle Steaks in Air Fryer
An air fryer makes sizzle steaks with a crispy texture and little to no oil. The circulating high heat cooks the steaks evenly.
Ingredients
- Sizzle steaks, about 6 oz each
- 1 tsp oil
- Seasonings of choice
Instructions
Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
Next, pat the steaks dry and brush lightly with oil. Season with desired spices and herbs. Then place steaks in air fryer basket in a single layer, not overcrowded.
Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and firm. Flip steaks halfway through.
Check temperature using a meat thermometer, aiming for 135°F for medium rare.
Remove steaks and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
The air fryer gives steaks a perfectly seared crust without the need for extra oil. Cook times are quick since the heat surrounds the meat.
Watch steaks closely so they don’t overcook. Because air fryers cook quickly, check for doneness a few minutes early.
4. How To Cook Sizzle Steaks on Grill
During summer, cooking sizzle steaks on the grill is a favorite. The open flames add great char and smoky flavor.
Ingredients
- Sizzle steaks, about 6 oz each
- Vegetable or olive oil
- Desired seasonings
- Hardwood chips or chunks (optional)
Instructions
Prepare your grill for direct high-heat cooking over one section. If using wood chips, soak first then add to the hot coals.
Pat the steaks dry. Brush lightly with oil on both sides and season as desired.
Place the steaks directly over the hot coals. For medium rare, cook 2-3 minutes per side. Move to indirect heat if flames flare up.
Flip steaks once and cook until browned and firm, testing for doneness with a meat thermometer.
Remove from grill and let rest 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
The hot flames from charcoal or gas add nice char while infusing the meat with smoky flavor. Adding wood chips boosts the smoky taste even more.
Aim for steaks no more than 1-inch thick for best results. Thinner cuts will cook faster over the direct high heat of the grill.
Sizzle steaks are a quick-cooking cut that takes well to high heat. Their thin profile means they cook up fast in the pan, oven, air fryer or on the grill. Use a meat thermometer to test for doneness and remove them from heat just shy of your target temp. After resting, they will be perfectly medium rare every time.
Season simply with just salt and pepper or spice it up with your favorite marinades and spice blends. Serve with grilled veggies and potatoes for an easy backyard barbecue meal. For a weeknight dinner, pair with a salad and rice pilaf. No matter how you cook and serve them, sizzle steaks make a satisfying meal any night of the week.
