There’s nothing quite like biting into a fresh, juicy taco piled high with bold flavors.
These easy steak tacos are loaded with tender grilled flank steak, crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and tangy pickled onions—all wrapped in warm corn tortillas.
They’re simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for entertaining.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The lime-garlic dressing adds a fresh, zesty punch to the steak.
It’s a quick and easy recipe—perfect for busy weeknights.
Pickled onions and grilled scallions take the flavor to the next level.
You can customize toppings to suit your taste.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Flank steak is lean, flavorful, and perfect for tacos when sliced thinly.
Lime juice and garlic create a simple, vibrant dressing.
Corn tortillas provide a slightly smoky, authentic taco base.
Red cabbage and romaine add crunch and freshness.
Avocado balances everything with creaminess.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Let the steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Slice across the grain for tender bites.
Char tortillas lightly for extra flavor and flexibility.
Don’t skip the pickled onions—they add the perfect tang.
How to Make Easy Steak Tacos
Step 1 – Season the steak
Pat the steak dry and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper, pressing lightly so it sticks.
Step 2 – Grill the steak
Heat a grill pan over medium-high and coat with cooking spray.
Cook steak about 6 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
Transfer to a board and rest for 5 minutes.
Step 3 – Make the dressing
Whisk lime juice, olive oil, and garlic in a small bowl.
Slice the steak thinly against the grain, drizzle with dressing, and season with kosher salt.
Step 4 – Warm the tortillas
Lightly spray the grill pan and heat tortillas about 20 seconds per side until soft and slightly charred.
Step 5 – Grill the scallions
Cook scallions on the grill pan until softened and charred, then remove.
Step 6 – Assemble the tacos
Fill tortillas with steak slices.
Top with romaine, red cabbage, avocado, and pickled red onions.
Garnish with grilled scallions and serve immediately.
What to Serve Them With
Pair with chips and fresh salsa for a complete taco night.
Serve alongside Mexican rice or black beans for a filling meal.
A margarita or agua fresca makes the perfect drink pairing.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap flank steak for skirt steak or sirloin.
Use flour tortillas if you prefer a softer wrap.
Add cheese, jalapeños, or salsa for extra flavor.
Make it lighter with lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover steak separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking.
Keep tortillas, veggies, and toppings fresh until ready to assemble.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, skirt steak or sirloin are great alternatives.
Can I make this recipe on an outdoor grill?
Definitely—the smoky flavor will make the tacos even better.
Do I have to use corn tortillas?
No, flour tortillas work fine, though corn gives a more authentic taste.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, chop the veggies and make the dressing in advance. Grill steak just before serving.
What if I don’t like pickled onions?
You can substitute with fresh red onions or even salsa.
How do I know when the steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer—135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium.
Final Thoughts
These easy steak tacos are everything I love in a meal: bold, fresh, and satisfying.
They’re versatile, fun to assemble, and guaranteed to be a hit at your table.

Easy Steak Tacos
Ingredients
- ¾ pound flank steak trimmed
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Cooking spray as needed
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 6-inch corn tortillas
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup chopped red cabbage
- 1 ripe avocado sliced
- 1 16-ounce jar pickled red onions
- Grilled scallions for garnish
Method
- Season steak with black pepper, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Heat a grill pan over medium-high and coat with cooking spray.
- Grill steak about 6 minutes per side, then rest 5 minutes.
- Whisk lime juice, olive oil, and garlic.
- Slice steak thinly against the grain, drizzle with dressing, and season with salt.
- Warm tortillas in grill pan 20 seconds per side.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/easy-steak-tacos/
Notes
- Resting the steak helps the juices redistribute for tenderness.
- For extra flavor, marinate steak in lime juice and garlic for 1 hour before grilling.
- You can swap flank steak with skirt steak or sirloin.