Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Easy Steak Tacos Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 23 reviews

These Easy Steak Tacos are a flavorful and quick meal perfect for any taco night. With a spicy, smoky marinade and a perfectly seared skirt or flank steak, these tacos are loaded with fresh toppings like jalapenos, cilantro, onions, and creamy avocado. Cooked on a grill or cast iron skillet, they come together in just 25 minutes, making them a delicious and satisfying dish for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

For the Steak and Marinade

  • 1.5 lbs skirt or flank steak (trimmed)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (use one with some kick!)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Pinch of cayenne (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1-2 jalapenos (finely minced, remove seeds and innards for less heat)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Tacos and Toppings

  • 12-16 small corn tortillas (street taco size preferred)
  • Fresh sliced jalapenos or serranos
  • Pickled habanero or Scotch bonnet slices (use sparingly!)
  • Spicy salsa (homemade or your favorite jar)
  • A drizzle of chipotle or habanero hot sauce
  • Chopped cilantro
  • Diced white onion
  • Lime wedges
  • Avocado or guacamole
  • Crumbled cotija cheese or shredded jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Steak: In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine the vegetable oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, minced jalapenos, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients form a cohesive marinade.
  2. Coat the Steak: Add the trimmed skirt or flank steak to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour to allow the flavors to infuse while you prepare the other ingredients.
  3. Heat the Cooking Surface: Preheat your grill or a cast iron skillet over high heat until it is very hot to achieve a good sear on the steak.
  4. Prepare to Cook: Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess drip off to avoid flare-ups on the grill or splattering on the skillet.
  5. Cook the Steak: For grilling, place the steak on the hot grill and cook for 2-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time based on thickness. For pan-searing, add a splash of oil to the skillet if needed and sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing down slightly to ensure even contact.
  6. Rest the Steak: Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, tender slices.
  7. Warm the Tortillas: While the steak rests, warm the corn tortillas on the grill, in a dry skillet, or directly over an open flame for a few seconds on each side until soft and lightly charred. Keep them warm until serving.
  8. Slice the Steak: Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and flavor in each bite.
  9. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each warmed tortilla with sliced steak and top generously with fresh sliced jalapenos, pickled habaneros or Scotch bonnets, spicy salsa, a drizzle of chipotle or habanero hot sauce, chopped cilantro, diced white onion, avocado or guacamole, and crumbled cotija or shredded jack cheese as desired.
  10. Serve: Serve the tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top and extra hot sauce for those who like more heat.

Notes

  • Marinate the steak for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 1 hour to prevent the acid from the lime juice from breaking down the meat excessively.
  • If you prefer less heat, remove seeds and membranes from jalapenos and adjust cayenne pepper accordingly.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if a grill is not available for the best sear and flavor.
  • Warm tortillas just before serving to keep them soft and pliable, preventing cracking or breaking.
  • Feel free to customize toppings based on preference; the balance between spicy, creamy, and fresh toppings creates the perfect taco experience.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/easy-steak-tacos-recipe/