Steak Tacos
Experience authentic street-style tacos with tender, juicy grilled steak marinated in a zesty blend of lime and spices. Tucked into warm corn tortillas and topped with classic onion and cilantro, this recipe is the ultimate centerpiece for any taco night.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Marinade and Steak
- b.In a large bowl or a zip-top bag, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- c.Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels, then add it to the marinade. Turn to coat, ensuring the steak is fully covered.
- d.Let the steak marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or for a more intense flavor, refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare Toppings
- b.While the steak is marinating, prepare your toppings. Finely dice the white onion, chop the cilantro, and cut the limes into wedges for serving. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Steak
- b.Preheat your grill or a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add the vegetable oil if using a skillet.
- c.Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- d.Place the steak on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 4-6 minutes per side for a medium-rare finish (internal temperature of 130-135°F / 54-57°C). Adjust cooking time based on your desired level of doneness.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Rest and Slice the Steak
- b.Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a much more tender and flavorful steak.
- c.After resting, identify the direction of the muscle fibers (the grain) and slice the steak thinly against the grain.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Warm Tortillas and Assemble Tacos
- b.While the steak rests, warm the corn tortillas. You can heat them in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side, or for a smoky char, warm them directly over a gas stove flame for a few seconds using tongs.
- c.Assemble the tacos by layering a generous amount of sliced steak onto each warm tortilla.
- d.Top with a sprinkle of diced white onion and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side to squeeze over the top.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best sear, make sure your grill or skillet is screaming hot before you add the steak.
- 2Slicing the steak against the grain is non-negotiable for tenderness. Look for the lines of the muscle fibers and cut perpendicular to them.
- 3Don't overcrowd the pan if you're cooking indoors. Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure it sears rather than steams.
- 4Skirt steak is an excellent alternative to flank steak and is often used for authentic carne asada.
- 5To save time, the steak can be marinated in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- 6For a creamier texture, add sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole to your tacos.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Tacos
Add 1-2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a smoky, spicy kick.
Different ToppingsDifferent Toppings
Customize your tacos with other toppings like crumbled cotija cheese, pico de gallo, pickled red onions, or a drizzle of crema.
Chicken or PorkChicken or Pork
This marinade works wonderfully with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or thin-cut pork chops. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Beef is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, growth, and overall function.
Rich in Iron
This recipe is packed with heme iron from the steak, a type of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for creating red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Provides B Vitamins
Steak is a natural source of essential B vitamins, particularly B12 and niacin, which are vital for energy production, brain function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of three steak tacos contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the exact size of the tortillas and the fat content of the steak.