These Simple Steak Street Tacos are a delicious treat! Juicy steak wrapped in soft tortillas, topped with fresh veggies and your favorite salsa, make each bite a flavor fiesta.
You’ll love how quick and easy they are to make! I usually whip them up after a long day, and they always bring a smile. Don’t forget the lime—it’s the secret to happiness on a taco!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak or Skirt Steak: Both are great choices for tacos due to their rich flavor and tenderness when cooked right. If you can’t find these cuts, try using sirloin or even chicken breast for a different protein option.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps with marinating. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil is a healthy substitute and has a high smoke point.
Spices (Cumin, Chili Powder, Smoked Paprika): These spices give the steak its punch. If you want to experiment, try taco seasoning for a ready-made mix or adjust amounts based on your spice preference.
Corn Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional and gluten-free, you can use flour tortillas if you prefer. Just remember, they’ll have a different taste and texture!
How Do You Ensure the Steak Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the steak just right is key to these tacos! Here are some friendly tips to cook it perfectly:
- Marinate your steak for the full 2 hours if possible—it really brings out the flavor.
- Heat your grill or skillet until it’s sizzling hot. This helps to sear the steak and lock in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy: aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare. This keeps it juicy!
- Let it rest for 5 minutes post-cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute for tender slices.
How to Make Simple Steak Street Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound flank steak or skirt steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 45 minutes in total. You’ll spend 30 minutes marinating the steak (which you can adjust up to 2 hours if you want to plan ahead), 15 minutes cooking and assembling your tacos, and they are ready to enjoy once everything is prepared!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Steak:
Start by marinating the steak. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to make a tasty marinade. Add your steak to the bowl and make sure it’s well-coated. Cover it and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or if you have the time, up to 2 hours for even more flavor!
2. Cook the Steak:
Next, it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, carefully add the marinated steak to the pan or grill. Cook the steak for about 5-7 minutes on each side. If you’re aiming for medium-rare, check for that perfect doneness. When the steak is ready, take it off the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay inside the meat!
3. Warm the Tortillas and Assemble:
While your steak is resting, grab your corn tortillas. Warm them up in a dry skillet or place them directly on the grill for a few seconds until they’re pliable and have a nice char. Now, slice the rested steak thinly against the grain. To put your tacos together, place a few slices of steak on each tortilla and top them off with some chopped red onion and fresh cilantro. It’s looking delicious already!
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze the lime over your tacos for an extra bit of zing! Sit back, take a bite, and enjoy your incredibly tasty Simple Steak Street Tacos!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat for These Tacos?
Absolutely! If you don’t have flank or skirt steak, you can use sirloin or even chicken for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the cut of meat you’re using—chicken will need to be cooked to 165°F internal temperature.
What Can I Use Instead of Corn Tortillas?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are great! However, you can also use flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative. Just warm them as you would the corn tortillas for the best flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Tacos?
To store leftovers, keep the steak, tortillas, and toppings separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the steak in a skillet and warm the tortillas briefly before assembling your tacos.
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Yes! Marinating the steak overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to cover it properly and keep it refrigerated. If you’re marinating for a long time, consider reducing the amount of salt so the meat doesn’t become too salty.
