Grilled Steak Tacos are a bold and savory Mexican-inspired dish featuring juicy, marinated steak grilled to perfection, then sliced and served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, these tacos deliver a mouthwatering combination of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flank steak or skirt steakolive oillime juicegarlic cloveschili powdercuminpaprikasalt and black peppercorn tortillaschopped cilantrodiced onionfresh lime wedgesavocado or guacamolered salsa or hot sauce (optional)

directions

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

Place the steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 hours.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Transfer the grilled steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Slice the steak thinly against the grain.

Warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet until pliable.

Assemble the tacos by layering sliced steak, chopped onion, cilantro, and any desired toppings such as avocado or salsa.

Squeeze fresh lime juice over each taco before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 tacos.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 1-4 hoursGrilling time: 10-12 minutesAssembly time: 5 minutesTotal time: 1.5 to 4.5 hours (including marination)

Variations

Swap steak for grilled chicken or shrimp for a different protein.

Use flour tortillas if preferred over corn.

Top with pickled red onions or crumbled queso fresco for extra flavor.

Add shredded cabbage or lettuce for a crunchy texture.

Use a chipotle crema instead of salsa for a smoky, creamy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftover grilled steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat steak slices in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes or microwave briefly wrapped in a damp paper towel.Assemble tacos fresh to maintain tortilla texture and topping freshness.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for tacos?

Flank steak and skirt steak are popular choices due to their flavor and tenderness when sliced thin.

Can I cook the steak on a stovetop?

Yes, use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for similar results.

Do I have to marinate the steak?

Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but if short on time, season well and grill directly.

What toppings go best on steak tacos?

Classic toppings include onion, cilantro, lime, avocado, salsa, and cheese, but feel free to customize.

Are steak tacos spicy?

They can be mild or spicy depending on the marinade and toppings used.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the steak ahead and cook just before serving. You can also grill in advance and reheat.

How do I slice steak properly?

Always slice against the grain for the most tender bite.

Can I freeze cooked steak?

Yes, store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

What sides pair well with steak tacos?

Mexican rice, black beans, elote (Mexican street corn), or chips with salsa or guac are great choices.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes, but homemade marinade allows for fresher, customized flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled Steak Tacos bring bold flavor and satisfying texture to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or making a casual dinner, these tacos offer the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh. Customize them with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious, handheld meal that’s always a crowd-pleaser.