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, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering with friends. With flavorful sirloin and a mix of vibrant toppings, you’ll impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have these delicious tacos ready in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Customizable Toppings: Personalize your tacos with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, or pickled onions.
• Healthy Option: Using lean sirloin and fresh vegetables makes this dish a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; they reheat beautifully!

Tools and Preparation

To make these Mexican Steak Tacos efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Retains heat well and gives your steak a perfect sear, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining spices and marinating the steak evenly.
• Sharp knife: Makes cutting the sirloin into cubes easy and safe.

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 the Tacos

• 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

1. 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.
2. Mix your herbs, spices, salt, pepper, and brown sugar in a bowl until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Season the Steak

1. Toss your steak cubes in a large bowl and drizzle them with some vegetable oil.
2. Toss in the rest of your spice rub and make sure that every piece is coated.
3. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes as you prep your toppings.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

1. Once your steak has marinated for a bit, get a cast iron skillet and pour in the rest of your vegetable oil.
2. Warm it up for about 2 minutes before searing your steak for 1 to 2 minutes per side.
3. Continue cooking until it has browned completely (around 3 to 5 minutes). Note: Don’t overcook as this will take out all the juices.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

1. Once cooked to your liking, carefully pile the steak on top of your tortilla wraps followed by your desired toppings.
2. For the final touch, garnish with chopped cilantro; then you’re ready to take that first bite!

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 14 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Mexican Steak Tacos

Mexican Steak Tacos are a versatile dish that can be customized with a variety of toppings and side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream: A creamy addition that balances the spices in the steak.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese adds a salty flavor that complements the meat perfectly.
• Guacamole: The rich, creamy texture of guacamole enhances the overall taste and brings freshness.

Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds brightness to each bite.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa creates a delightful contrast with the savory steak.

Pickled Accents

• Pickled Red Onions: These tangy onions provide a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor.
• Jalapeño Peppers: For those who like it spicy, sliced jalapeños add heat and depth.

How to Perfect Mexican Steak Tacos

Perfecting your Mexican Steak Tacos is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips for an amazing taco experience.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use fresh sirloin steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Let It Marinate: Allow the steak to sit with the spice rub for at least 10 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
• Avoid Overcooking: Cook the steak just until browned for juicy, flavorful pieces.
• Warm Your Tortillas: Heat your tortillas on a skillet before serving; this enhances their flavor and makes them more pliable.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Steak Tacos

Serving side dishes with your Mexican Steak Tacos can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes for a perfect accompaniment.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh salad made with corn, lime, and cilantro adds sweetness and crunch.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa are always a crowd-pleaser before tacos.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until charred enhance your meal’s smokiness.
6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese, lime, and chili powder is a flavorful treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Steak Tacos can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak for too long can make it tough and dry. Aim for a perfect sear on each side, cooking just until browned and juicy.
• Skipping the spice rub: Not using a spice rub will leave your tacos bland. Make sure to coat your steak cubes thoroughly with spices for maximum flavor.
• Using cold tortillas: Cold tortillas can break easily and won’t enhance your taco experience. Warm them up in a skillet or microwave before assembling your tacos.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings add essential flavor and texture. Don’t skimp on garnishes like chopped cilantro, guacamole, and salsa; they elevate your dish.
• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into the steak right away can cause juices to escape. Allow it to rest for a few minutes after cooking for a juicier bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover 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 or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Steak Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap tacos in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add tacos, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Steak Tacos.

How do I make Mexican Steak Tacos spicier?

You can increase the heat by adding more cayenne pepper or using hot salsa as a topping.

What is the best tortilla type for Mexican Steak Tacos?

Corn tortillas work well due to their texture and flavor. However, you can also use flour tortillas based on personal preference.

Can I customize my Mexican Steak Tacos?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or various cheeses according to your taste.

How do I store leftovers of Mexican Steak Tacos?

Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

These Mexican Steak Tacos are not only quick and easy but also customizable to fit various taste preferences. Whether you prefer extra spice or different toppings, this recipe offers versatility. Give it a try for your next taco night!