Mexican Steak Tacos

Don’t order takeout anymore — instead, make your own epic Mexican Steak Tacos at home in under 20 minutes! These tacos are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends. The combination of spices and tender steak creates a flavorful experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Prepare these tacos in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor Packed: A blend of spices elevates the taste, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: Enjoy the freedom to add your favorite toppings, making these tacos adaptable to everyone’s palate.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
• Healthy Options Available: You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Mexican Steak Tacos, having the right tools makes all the difference. Below are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well, ensuring your steak sears perfectly for that delicious crust.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining spices and marinating the steak evenly.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping steak cubes quick and precise, enhancing your cooking efficiency.

Ingredients

Don’t order takeout anymore — instead, make your own epic Mexican Steak Tacos at home in under 20 minutes!

For the Steak

• 1 ½ pounds of sirloin (chopped into cubes)
• 1 tablespoon EACH of chili powder and ancho chili powder
• 1 teaspoon EACH of garlic powder, ground cumin, brown sugar, and onion powder
• ½ teaspoon EACH of dried oregano, ground coriander, and smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, only if you want the heat)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• Salt and ground black pepper (to taste)

For Serving

• 8 corn tortillas (or any type of tortilla you prefer)
• 1 tub of sour cream
• 1 pack of cotija cheese
• 1 jar of store-bought guacamole
• 1 jar of store-bought salsa
• 1 jar of pickled red onions
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Hot sauce of your choice (optional)

How to Make Mexican Steak Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Get your sirloin steak, pat them dry, and chop them into bite-sized cubes. Leave them on the cutting board as you make your spice rub.

Step 2: Create the Spice Rub

Mix your herbs, spices, salt, pepper, and brown sugar in a bowl until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Steak

Toss your steak cubes in a large bowl and drizzle them with some vegetable oil. Toss in the rest of your spice rub and make sure that every piece is coated.

Step 4: Marinate

Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes as you prep your toppings.

Step 5: Heat Your Skillet

Once your steak has marinated for a bit, get a cast iron skillet and pour in the rest of your vegetable oil. Warm it up for about 2 minutes before searing your steak for 1 to 2 minutes per side.

Step 6: Cook Until Browned

Continue cooking the steak until it has browned completely (around 3 to 5 minutes). Note: Don’t overcook your steak because it will take out all the juices.

Step 7: Assemble Your Tacos

Once your steak cubes are cooked to your liking, carefully pile them on top of your tortilla wraps, followed by the rest of your toppings.

Step 8: Garnish

For the final touch, garnish your tacos with chopped cilantro, and you’re ready to take the first bite. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Steak Tacos

Mexican Steak Tacos are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some suggestions to elevate your taco experience and impress your guests.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spice of the steak.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese provides a salty flavor that complements the richness of the beef.
• Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole enhances each bite with fresh avocado goodness.

Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a zesty crunch.
• Mango Salsa: Diced mango mixed with jalapeños for a sweet and spicy twist that pairs well with beef.
• Tomatillo Salsa: A tangy salsa verde that offers a bright, acidic contrast to the savory steak.

Pickled Additions

• Pickled Red Onions: These add a sharpness that cuts through the richness of the meat.
• Jalapeños: Pickled jalapeños provide heat and acidity, perfect for those who love extra spice.

How to Perfect Mexican Steak Tacos

To make your Mexican Steak Tacos truly unforgettable, consider these simple tips.

• Bold Marination: Let your steak marinate for at least 10 minutes. This enhances flavor penetration and tenderizes the meat.
• High Heat Cooking: Use high heat when searing your steak. This creates a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Tortilla Preparation: Warm your tortillas on a skillet before serving. This makes them pliable and enhances their flavor.
• Layer Wisely: Start with the steak, then add toppings in layers. This prevents sogginess and allows each ingredient to shine.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Steak Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Steak Tacos can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds substance to your meal.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and complement tacos beautifully; serve them warm alongside.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing blend of corn, bell peppers, and lime juice offers sweetness and crunch.
4. Chips with Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with homemade or store-bought salsa make for a fun appetizer.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, or corn bring smoky flavors that enhance your taco experience.
6. Queso Dip: Melted cheese dip served warm is always a crowd-pleaser; perfect for dipping tortilla chips or drizzling over tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Mexican Steak Tacos from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long will make it tough and dry. Aim for a medium-rare finish for juicy tacos.
• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not letting the spices sit on the steak can result in bland flavors. Allow at least 5-10 minutes for optimal taste.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Warm them up in a skillet or microwave before filling.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Relying solely on store-bought toppings can make your tacos lackluster. Use fresh cilantro, homemade salsa, or guacamole for better flavor.
• Using Thin Tortillas: Thin tortillas may tear under pressure when filled with toppings. Choose thicker corn tortillas that hold up well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mexican Steak Tacos in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Steak Tacos

• Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Steak Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place tacos on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add the tacos, and warm them for about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for Mexican Steak Tacos?

Sirloin is an excellent choice due to its balance of tenderness and flavor. Other cuts like flank or skirt steak also work well.

Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Chicken or turkey can be seasoned similarly and provide a lighter alternative while still being delicious.

How do I customize my Mexican Steak Tacos?

You can add various toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or shredded lettuce. Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste!

What should I serve with Mexican Steak Tacos?

Consider pairing your tacos with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I prevent my tortillas from tearing?

Use thicker corn tortillas and warm them before filling. This helps maintain their structure even when loaded with toppings.

Final Thoughts

These Mexican Steak Tacos are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and spices to suit your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!