Flank Steak Tacos are perfect for those nights when you want a flavorful, protein-packed meal without a lot of fuss. Citrus flavors and garlic, plus a little heat and a little sweet all add up to a winning recipe!
If you love tacos, then you’ll also want to try my recipes for Teriyaki Chicken Tacos, my Cajun Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa, or my Instant Pot Shredded Chicken Tacos.
As you all know, it’s still grilling season. As tempting as it is to pack up the deck furniture and get out the slow cooker, summer still goes for (at least) another month. That’s not to say you can’t grill any old time you want — we’ve been known to bundle up and run from the house to the grill on a deck covered in snow in the middle of winter — but now is prime time.
And speaking of prime time — how about some steak? There’s just something about steak that can’t be beat. Chicken, fish, and seafood have their time and place, sure, but sometimes you just want the meat. This was one of those times. Tacos just seem to be an easy pairing with the weather, the grill, and my urge to soak up every last bit of that delicious summer sunshine.
HOW DO YOU MAKE FLANK STEAK TACOS?
Making these steak tacos is as easy as it can be! First, I whisk together the oil, citrus juices, and spices in a small bowl. I then transfer this to a large, sealable bag and then add the steak into the bag with the marinade.
I get out as much of the air from the bag as I can, and then seal it up. I kind of swish the bag around a bit to get all of the steak good and covered. I leave the steak alone to marinate in the fridge at least 30 minutes but you can also prepare this the night before and leave it soaking till you’re ready to grill the next day.
When it’s cooking time, take the steak in its marinade to the grill and use tongs to remove it from the bag and put it on a medium-hot grill or grill pan. (Throw away the leftover marinade.) My perfect grilling time is about 8 minutes on each side, but I like my steak a little on the pink side in the middle. Cook yours for more or less time, depending on how you like your steak done.
When it’s finished cooking, remove it from the grill and let it rest if you like. Then slice it into thin strips and put your tacos together. Dive in, wipe the juice from your chin. Repeat.
WHAT CUT OF STEAK IS BEST FOR TACOS?
I like to grill flank steak — it cooks up quickly, is budget-friendly, and tastes delicious. Skirt steak is also a good option if you can’t find flank, prefer skirt steak, or just happen to have one in your fridge or freezer that needs to be used up. You could also use a hanger steak as well. Make due with what you have — just remember each steak cut will have a different cooking time depending on your preferences.
WHAT SIDE DISHES GO GOOD WITH FLANK STEAK TACOS?
Tacos are great but they are even better with complementary sides! Some of my favorites include:
- This moist, creamy, flavorful Bacon Avocado Potato Salad is perfect for those nights you’re dining outside and need an easy side dish.
- Confession: Sometimes I make this Mexican Volcano Dip and then scoop the dip right on top of my tacos…because it’s delicious and I can!
- Rice with a bit of coconut milk, cilantro, salt, and pepper is a great side. You can use white or brown rice or even try cauliflower rice if you are looking for a low-carb side.
- I also love to make black beans on the side of my taco dishes.
- Chips and salsa, because they go with everything, all the time.
- I’d also suggest a side of guacamole — you can scoop it up with chips, use it as a topping for your taco, or both!
15 OF THE MOST POPULAR TACO TOPPINGS
- Salsa
- Guacamole
- Cheese
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- Chopped red or white onions
- Chopped cilantro
- Jalapeno slices
- Lime juice
- Hot sauce
- Roasted corn
- Shredded lettuce
- Shredded cabbage
- Tomatoes
- Green onions
- Black peppers
Best Flank Steak Tacos
Flank Steak Tacos are perfect for those nights when you want a flavorful, protein-packed meal without a lot of fuss. Citrus flavors and garlic, plus a little heat and a little sweet all add up to a winning recipe!
-
1 1/2
pounds
flank steak -
1/3
cup
oil - juice of 1 lemon
- juice of 2 limes
- juice of 1 orange
-
1
teaspoon
minced garlic -
1
teaspoon
chili powder -
1
teaspoon
salt -
8
6-inch flour tortillas -
chopped cilantro, avocado, onions, and lime wedges
for serving
Whisk together oil, lemon juice, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, chili powder, and salt. Pour into a large ziploc bag.
Add steak to the bag, press out all of the excess air, and seal the bag.
Chill for 30 minutes or up to overnight.
Use tongs to transfer steak to a preheated grill or grill pan, discard excess marinade.
Grill for about 8 minutes on each side or until cooked to desired doneness. (I like mine just a little pink in the middle for best flavor and ultra juicy/tender steak).
Assemble tacos with steak in the tortillas, topped with your favorite garnishes like avocado, onions, cilantro, salsa, and fresh squeezed lime juice.
