Taco night gets a flavor upgrade with these juicy and tender steak tacos! If you’re craving something beyond ground beef, this recipe transforms sirloin steak into a weeknight favorite. Packed with Latin-inspired flavor and loaded with vibrant toppings, these steak tacos are sure to become a new household tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love classic taco meat, wait until you try these marinated steak tacos! Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a family fiesta, this easy recipe delivers restaurant-worthy results cooked right at home. In under an hour, you’ll be serving up sizzling tortillas layered with steak and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients for Steak Tacos
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper
For Serving:
- 1 1/2 pounds sirloin steak (cut bite-size or grill whole, then slice)
- 6-inch flour or corn tortillas
- Onion (red or sweet, diced)
- Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- Cotija cheese or Mexican cheese blend
- Sliced avocado or homemade guacamole
- Lime wedges
- Sour cream or cilantro lime crema
How to Make the Best Steak Tacos
1. Marinate the Steak
In a bowl or a zip-top bag, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the steak, toss to coat, and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 5 hours for maximal flavor).
2. Cook the Steak
Bring steak to room temperature. Heat a large skillet over medium-high or grill to medium-high heat. Add steak and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning to brown all sides, to an internal temp of 135–145°F (medium rare to medium). Rest meat 5 minutes.
3. Slice Against the Grain
Slice cooked steak thinly against the grain for tenderness.
4. Warm Tortillas
Warm tortillas in a skillet or wrap in foil and bake until pliable.
5. Assemble Tacos
Layer steak onto tortillas and pile on onions, cilantro, cheese, avocado, crema, and a squeeze of lime.
Topping Ideas
- Chopped red onion or pickled onions
- Fresh cilantro and extra lime juice
- Cotija cheese, queso fresco, or cheddar
- Creamy cilantro lime crema
- Avocado slices or classic guacamole
- Fresh pico de gallo or salsa
Expert Tips for Tender Steak Tacos
- Marinate overnight if time allows for deeper flavor.
- Let steak rest before slicing—this keeps it juicy.
- Slice against the grain for max tenderness.
- Add heat! Stir chili powder or cayenne into the marinade for a spicy kick.
Variations & Substitutions
- Swap sirloin for skirt or flank steak for different flavors.
- Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Serve with Taco Tuesday sides like cilantro lime rice or Mexican street corn for a complete meal.
Storage
Leftover steak keeps for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, and stuff in tacos, burritos, or salads tomorrow!
Common Questions
Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing?
Absolutely! Grill over medium-high 4–5 minutes a side, let rest, then slice thinly.
What’s the best way to warm tortillas?
For soft tortillas, warm in a dry skillet or wrap in foil and bake.
Final Bite
Steak tacos bring the “wow” factor to every dinner. With a quick marinade and vibrant toppings, this crowd-pleaser will win your next Taco Tuesday. Looking for more taco inspiration? Check out the taco meat and Taco Tuesday collections for even more ideas.