Steak Taco Recipe: Steak tacos are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe will help you create the perfect steak tacos every time.
What makes these tacos special? It’s all about the marinade, the perfectly cooked steak, and the fresh toppings. Follow this guide to learn how to make the best steak tacos from scratch!
Ingredients for Steak Tacos
Before getting started, gather all the necessary ingredients.
For the Steak Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak (or skirt steak)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp orange juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp oregano
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for extra umami flavor)
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ cup diced red onion
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes or pico de gallo
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional for spice)
- Lime wedges for serving
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream or Mexican crema
- Hot sauce or salsa
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage
Choosing the Best Steak for Tacos
The key to delicious steak tacos is choosing the right cut of meat. Here are the best options:
Best Cuts for Steak Tacos:
- Flank steak – Lean, flavorful, and perfect for quick cooking.
- Skirt steak – A little fattier but very tender and packed with flavor.
- Ribeye – A premium option that’s juicy and rich in taste.
- Sirloin – A budget-friendly cut that works well for tacos.
Tip: Look for steak with good marbling (fat distribution) for the best flavor!
How to Make the Perfect Steak Marinade
A great marinade enhances the flavor of the steak and keeps it juicy.
Marinade Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and soy sauce.
- Place the steak in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor).
Tip: The citrus juices help tenderize the meat, but don’t marinate for more than 8 hours, or the steak might become mushy.
Marinating the Steak
Marinating is an essential step to infuse the meat with flavor.
How Long Should You Marinate?
- 30 minutes: Light flavor infusion (great if you’re short on time).
- 2-4 hours: Deep, rich flavor.
- Overnight (8 hours max): Maximum tenderness and flavor.
Pro Tip: Flip the steak halfway through marinating for even flavor distribution.
Cooking the Steak
You can cook the steak on a grill, stovetop, or even a broiler.
Grilling Method:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (400°F-450°F).
- Remove steak from the marinade and pat dry.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if desired.
- Remove and let it rest.
Stovetop Method (Cast Iron Skillet):
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
- Add a little oil and sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Cook until the desired doneness is reached.
- Remove and let it rest.
Steak Doneness Guide:
| Doneness | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Rare | 125°F |
| Medium-Rare | 130-135°F |
| Medium | 140-145°F |
| Medium-Well | 150°F |
| Well Done | 160°F |
Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Resting and Slicing the Steak
Why Resting is Important
After cooking, let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
How to Slice the Steak
- Always slice against the grain for tenderness.
- Cut into thin strips or small cubes.
Preparing the Tortillas
Warm tortillas enhance the flavor and texture of your tacos.
How to Heat Tortillas:
- On the stovetop: Heat in a dry pan for 30 seconds per side.
- Over an open flame: Char directly over the flame for a smoky flavor.
- Microwave: Wrap in a damp towel and microwave for 20 seconds.
Assembling the Steak Tacos
Now for the fun part—putting it all together!
Step-by-Step Assembly:
- Lay a tortilla flat.
- Add a generous portion of sliced steak.
- Top with diced onions, cilantro, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Sprinkle with cheese and jalapeños.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Serving Suggestions
Steak tacos pair perfectly with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some great options to complete your meal.
Best Side Dishes for Steak Tacos
- Mexican Rice – A flavorful and traditional side that complements the tacos.
- Refried Beans – Creamy, seasoned beans add richness to the meal.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn topped with mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder.
- Guacamole and Chips – A classic appetizer that adds freshness.
- Black Bean Salad – A healthy and refreshing side dish.
Drink Pairings for Steak Tacos
- Margaritas – A lime margarita is the perfect match for the smoky flavors of steak.
- Mexican Beer (Corona, Modelo, Pacifico) – Light and crisp beers go well with tacos.
- Horchata – A sweet, cinnamon-flavored rice milk drink for a non-alcoholic option.
- Agua Fresca – Refreshing fruit-infused drinks, like watermelon or hibiscus agua fresca.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them properly.
How to Store Leftovers
- Steak: Store cooked steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Tortillas: Keep tortillas in a sealed bag at room temperature or in the fridge.
- Toppings: Store fresh toppings separately in airtight containers.
Best Ways to Reheat Steak Tacos
- Stovetop: Heat steak in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Oven: Wrap steak in foil and heat at 300°F for 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) to avoid drying out.
Tip: Add a splash of lime juice or broth when reheating steak to keep it juicy.
Customizing Your Steak Tacos
Want to add your own twist? Try these variations!
Spicy Steak Tacos
- Add chopped serrano peppers or extra jalapeños.
- Use a spicy marinade with extra chili powder and cayenne.
- Top with hot salsa or spicy chipotle sauce.
Cheesy Steak Tacos
- Melt queso blanco over the steak before serving.
- Add a cheese sauce drizzle for extra richness.
- Use Monterey Jack or shredded cheddar for a melty texture.
Creamy Avocado Steak Tacos
- Blend avocado, sour cream, and lime juice into a smooth sauce.
- Use guacamole as a spread before adding steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these mistakes to ensure your tacos turn out perfect every time!
Overcooking the Steak
- Always use a meat thermometer to prevent toughness.
Skipping the Resting Time
- Letting the steak rest ensures it stays juicy.
Not Warming the Tortillas
- Cold tortillas can break easily and affect the taco’s texture.
Overloading the Tacos
- Stick to 2-3 toppings so the flavors shine through.
Healthier Options for Steak Tacos
Looking for a lighter version? Try these healthy swaps.
Low-Carb Alternatives
- Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
- Serve the steak over a cauliflower rice bowl.
Leaner Meat Options
- Choose sirloin or flank steak for lower fat content.
- Trim excess fat before cooking.
Light Toppings
- Skip the cheese and sour cream and use fresh salsa instead.
- Add extra veggies like shredded cabbage or radishes.
FAQs about Steak Taco Recipe
What type of steak is best for tacos?
For steak tacos, flank or skirt steak are excellent choices due to their rich flavors and the fact that they cook quickly. These cuts are also ideal for marinating, enhancing their taste and tenderness.
How should I cook the steak for tacos?
Grilling or pan-searing the steak over high heat is best to achieve a charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy. Cook the steak to your preferred doneness, typically medium-rare or medium, and let it rest before slicing it against the grain to ensure tenderness.
What are some good toppings for steak tacos?
Classic toppings include diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. However, you can add a variety of other toppings such as sliced avocado, chopped tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and spicy salsa to cater to different tastes.
Can I make steak tacos ahead of time?
While steak tacos are best served fresh, you can prepare the steak and toppings ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and reheat the steak when ready to serve. This makes assembling the tacos quick and easy.
Are there any tips for marinating steak for tacos?
Yes, marinating the steak can add depth of flavor. Ingredients like lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder are popular in marinades and help tenderize the meat. Marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for more robust flavor.
What sides go well with steak tacos?
Popular side dishes include Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple salad. These sides complement the richness of the steak and add balance to your meal.
How do I keep my steak tacos from becoming soggy?
To prevent soggy tacos, drain any excess marinade off the steak before cooking. Also, consider using thicker or double-layered tortillas to hold the ingredients better and provide an extra crunch.
Conclusion
Steak tacos are an easy and flavorful dish that you can customize to your liking. With the right marinade, perfectly cooked steak, and fresh toppings, you can make restaurant-quality tacos at home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the ultimate taco night!
