Moroccan Skirt Steak on Ninja Grill | Fast & Flavorful

Moroccan Skirt Steak on Ninja Grill (Quick, Juicy & Spice-Kissed)

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Let’s cut to the chase — your Ninja Grill is capable of way more than reheating leftovers. Tonight, it’s about to channel the smoky magic of Marrakech with this Moroccan skirt steak on Ninja Grill — juicy, spice-rubbed, and ready in under 30 minutes.

Forget bland. This recipe turns a humble piece of meat into a flavor bomb, thanks to ras el hanout — Morocco’s answer to “everything spice.” The heat of the grill locks in char, the citrus drizzle lifts the whole dish, and your kitchen? Smells like a spice market with no passport required.

It’s ideal for:

  • Grill fans who want more than burgers.
  • Busy home cooks craving flavor without fuss.
  • Anyone curious about Moroccan cuisine — minus the intimidation.

By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to master juicy Moroccan-style steak with your Ninja Foodi Grill (or any indoor grill, really). And yes — substitutions, pro tips, and flavor twists are all waiting for you.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories (per serving): ~390 kcal

Ingredients for Moroccan Skirt Steak on Ninja Grill

Moroccan Skirt Steak on Ninja Grill

This recipe brings together a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients and the punch of North African flavor — all designed to work seamlessly with your Ninja Foodi Grill (or any hot grill setup).

For the Moroccan Spice Rub:

  • 1 tbsp ras el hanout (Moroccan spice blend — warm, aromatic)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, if you like it hot)
  • ¾ tsp kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Steak:

  • 1½ lbs skirt steak (flank steak also works beautifully)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing the grill and steak)

For the Citrus-Herb Drizzle:

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Juice of ½ a lemon
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp honey (optional, balances the citrus)
  • Pinch of sea salt

Optional Pairings:

  • Couscous, quinoa, or roasted veggies
  • Warm pita, hummus, or herby yogurt sauce
  • Pickled onions or grilled peppers for layering flavor

What is Ras el Hanout?

How to Make Moroccan Skirt Steak on Ninja Grill

This method is all about heat, timing, and trusting your Ninja Foodi Grill to deliver that perfect crust. Skirt steak is fast-cooking by nature, so once it’s rubbed and ready, it’s just a few flips away from magic.

1. Mix the Moroccan Spice Rub

In a small bowl, combine ras el hanout, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until fully blended.

Moroccan Skirt Steak on Ninja Grill

2. Prep the Steak

Pat the skirt steak completely dry with paper towels — this helps you get that ideal sear. Rub the spice mix all over the steak, pressing it in gently with your hands. Let it rest at room temperature while the Ninja Grill preheats.

Moroccan skirt steak grilled on a Ninja Foodi

3. Preheat Your Ninja Foodi Grill

  • Turn your Ninja Foodi Grill to HIGH GRILL (500°F) setting.
  • Allow it to fully preheat — the unit will beep when it’s ready.
  • Lightly brush the grill grate with olive oil to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Skirt Steak

Place the steak directly on the hot grill plates.

  • Cook for 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare (depending on thickness).
  • Flip once only — no pressing or poking! You want a clean crust.

🔥 Pro Tip: Skirt steak overcooks fast. Pull it early and let it finish cooking off the grill.

Juicy Moroccan skirt steak grilled

5. Rest and Slice

Transfer steak to a cutting board and let it rest, covered loosely with foil, for about 5 minutes.
Then — and this is critical — slice against the grain, at a slight angle. Thin slices = tenderness you’ll brag about.

6. Finish with the Citrus-Herb Drizzle

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange zest, chopped mint, parsley, honey, and sea salt.
Drizzle this bright, zesty mixture over the sliced steak just before serving.

healthline – Skirt Steak

Can I use the Ninja Grill’s Food Probe?

Yes! For ultra-precise cooking, insert the built-in food thermometer and pull your steak at 130°F for a perfect medium-rare.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount
Calories390 kcal
Protein34g
Fat24g
Saturated Fat6g
Carbohydrates5g
Sugar2g
Fiber1g
Sodium620mg
Cholesterol95mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates based on a 4-serving yield and standard cuts of skirt steak.

Pro Tips for Ninja-Grilling Moroccan Skirt Steak

Grilling skirt steak on a Ninja Foodi isn’t hard — but doing it right? That’s where the flavor game levels up. Here’s how to get it charred, juicy, and unmistakably Moroccan, every single time.

Ninja Foodi Grill Review & Smart Cook System

Slice Against the Grain — Or Else

Skirt steak’s fibers are long and ropey. If you slice it with the grain, it turns chewy fast. Always slice across the grain at a 45° angle for melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Don’t Skimp on the Preheat

Your Ninja Grill should be smoking-hot before you even think of adding meat. If it’s not fully preheated, the steak will steam instead of sear. You want sizzle, not sadness.

Spice Rub = Fast Flavor

Ras el hanout doesn’t need hours to work its magic. Just 10–15 minutes at room temperature is enough to bring out those warming Moroccan spices — cinnamon, cumin, clove, and more.

Time Your Flips

Skirt steak on a Ninja Grill should cook fast:

  • 2–3 minutes per side is the sweet spot for medium-rare.
  • For thinner cuts, lean closer to 90 seconds.

Rest = Juicy

After grilling, tent the steak with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute — skip this step and your first slice might look like a crime scene.

What if I overcook the steak on the Ninja Grill?

It happens. If your steak feels too firm or dry, slice it thinner than usual and add a bit more of the citrus-herb drizzle. The acidity and olive oil will help revive some of the moisture and flavor.

Flavor Swaps & Dietary Tweaks for Ninja-Grilled Moroccan Steak


The beauty of this recipe? It’s flexible. Whether you’re out of mint or feeding someone gluten-free, this Moroccan skirt steak on Ninja Grill can bend without breaking flavor.

Protein Swaps

  • Flank steak: Slightly thicker than skirt, but works great on the Ninja Grill. Just add 1–2 minutes per side.
  • Flat iron or sirloin: Lean and tender. Same spice rub, same technique.
  • Chicken thighs: Rub and grill — increase cook time to 5–6 minutes per side.
  • Vegan option: Use portobello mushrooms or canned jackfruit, rub with the same spices, and grill until charred.

Herb & Drizzle Variations

  • No mint? Try fresh cilantro or basil.
  • Add minced garlic or shallot for more bite in the drizzle.
  • For an extra Moroccan kick, stir in a dash of cinnamon or harissa paste.

Citrus Options

  • Use lime juice instead of lemon for tangier drizzle.
  • Try pomegranate molasses instead of honey for a deep, sweet-sour balance.

Serving Tweaks

  • Low-carb? Serve with grilled eggplant or cauliflower rice.
  • Gluten-free? Swap couscous for quinoa or rice pilaf.
  • Street-food style? Slice the steak and stuff it in a warm pita with greens, drizzle, and pickled onions.

Can I make this for a plant-based guest?

Definitely. Jackfruit or mushrooms hold up well on the Ninja Grill. Just be sure to dry them well, coat with the spice rub, and grill hot for a smoky crust. Add extra herb drizzle to bring it home.

Recipe Categories

  • Course: Main Course / Dinner
  • Cuisine: Moroccan / Mediterranean Fusion
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, High-Protein, Dairy-Free
  • Method: Indoor Grilling / Ninja Foodi / Cast Iron
  • Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly to Intermediate (depending on slicing and grill familiarity)

Conclusion

There’s a small kind of pride that comes from nailing a steak on your Ninja Grill — and when that steak is kissed with Moroccan spice and finished with a bright citrus drizzle? It hits deeper.

This Moroccan skirt steak on Ninja Grill recipe isn’t just about dinner. It’s about discovering what your indoor grill can really do. It’s about pulling complex flavors out of simple ingredients. And maybe, just maybe, it’s about turning a weeknight into something that feels a little special.

So go ahead — slice it thin, drizzle it bold, and serve it with something you love.
And when you do? Come back and tell me how yours turned out.

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Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
For any health-related questions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions: Moroccan Skirt Steak on Ninja Grill

Can I make Moroccan skirt steak on a Ninja Grill instead of outdoor grilling?

Absolutely — that’s the beauty of this recipe. The Ninja Foodi Grill gives you high heat and smoky char indoors, which makes it perfect for this Moroccan-style preparation. It locks in spice and moisture just like a flame grill would.

What temperature should I cook skirt steak to on the Ninja Grill?

Aim for an internal temp of:
130°F for medium-rare
135°F for medium
Use the built-in food thermometer if your Ninja has one, or a quick-read

How do I keep skirt steak tender?

Three keys:
Don’t overcook — 2–3 minutes per side is plenty.
Always slice against the grain.
Rest the steak after grilling for at least 5 minutes under foil.

Can I use the same recipe with flank steak?

Yes! Flank steak is a little thicker, so just grill 3–4 minutes per side instead. Same rub, same drizzle, same delicious results.

Do I need ras el hanout, or can I substitute it?

Ras el hanout is the signature Moroccan flavor here, but if you don’t have it, try mixing:
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp paprika
Pinch of clove or nutmeg
It’s not identical, but it still brings those warm, spiced notes that pair beautifully with grilled


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