Do Share Recipe

Flank Steak Tacos Recipe with Citrus Marinade

When I first made these flank steak tacos, I was amazed at how easy and flavorful they turned out. The zesty citrus marinade made the steak tender and juicy, while the simple toppings added a fresh burst of flavor.

Tacos are always a hit in my house, but these were next-level delicious. The best part is how customizable they are, making them perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Add some freshness to your meal with our Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe guide.

Ingredients for Flank Steak Tacos Recipe

Here are some ingredients for flank steak tacos:

For the steak and marinade:

1 pound flank steak, trimmed of excess fat
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1/2 tablespoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

For serving:

8 small corn or flour tortillas
Shredded Monterey Jack, feta, or queso fresco cheese
Additional toppings such as fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and sliced tomato

Note: Makes 4 servings, with 2 tacos per person.

Variations to Try

Adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs with these variations:

Low-Carb: Use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas for a lighter option.
Vegan Option: Substitute the steak with hearty grilled portobello mushrooms.
Extra Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade or top with spicy jalapeños.
Cheese-Free: Skip the cheese and load up with extra veggies for a dairy-free option.

Planning a meal this weekend? Browse through delicious dinner recipes here.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time (including marinating): 1 hour 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Mixing bowl or measuring cup: To prepare the marinade.
Grill or grill pan: To cook the steak and warm tortillas.
Tongs: For flipping steak and tortillas.
Sharp knife: For cutting the steak.
Cutting board: To slice the cooked steak.

How to Make Flank Steak Tacos?

This recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Follow these simple steps to whip up these tacos in no time.

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Steak

Start by trimming any excess fat from the flank steak. Place it in a baking dish. For the marinade, mix olive oil, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (but no more than 8 hours).

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grates with a little oil to prevent sticking, then remove the steak from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side.

For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 135°F. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board, cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute for tender, flavorful slices.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

While the steak rests, heat your tortillas. Place them on the grill or in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds per side until soft and slightly charred.

Step 4: Slice and Assemble

Using a sharp knife, slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. Prepare your tortillas by adding a few slices of steak, your favorite cheese, and any toppings like cilantro, red onion, or tomato. Serve immediately, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why these tacos are a must-try for your next meal:

Bursting with fresh citrus and smoky flavors.
Quick to prepare with less than 10 minutes of cooking time.
Perfect for grilling, stovetop, or even broiling.
Customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

How to Serve Flank Steak Tacos?

Arrange the tacos on a platter for a family-style presentation. Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro for color and flavor. These tacos are deliciously paired with fresh guacamole, salsa, or sides like Mexican rice and black beans.

For an extra treat, consider serving them with a fruity margarita or a chilled cucumber agua fresca. You can explore this tasty Rotisserie Chicken Fried Rice Recipe for your next taco night.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (2 tacos, without extras):

Calories: 193
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fat: 9 g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is ideal for meal prepping. Marinate the steak up to 8 hours in advance, keeping it in the refrigerator. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

To reheat, use a lightly oiled skillet to warm the steak quickly without drying it out. Avoid microwaving, as it might alter the texture of the meat. You can also freeze cooked steak for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it when ready to use.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Having made these tacos several times, here are a few tips I swear by:

Always use freshly squeezed citrus juice for the marinade for the best flavor.
Don’t over-marinate the steak; aim for 1-4 hours for the ideal tenderness.
Rest the steak after grilling to keep it juicy when slicing.
Heat the tortillas just before serving for a warm, pliable base.

Why is Flank Steak So Expensive?

Flank steak is a lean, flavorful cut that’s highly versatile in recipes. Due to its density of flavor and rising demand, it tends to fetch a higher price in the market. Supply also plays a role, as only a small portion of flank steak comes from each cow, making it a special cut.

Is Flank Steak Good for Tacos?

Absolutely! Flank steak’s rich, beefy flavor works beautifully in tacos. When marinated and cooked correctly, it becomes tender, making it ideal for thin slices that fit perfectly in tortillas. Its ability to absorb marinades makes it suitable for packing maximum flavor into every bite.

Flank steak tacos are a true delight, balancing bold flavors with simplicity. Enjoy this recipe as a weeknight treat or a centerpiece for celebrations. Either way, these tacos are bound to steal the show!

Ben Carraoli