These flank steak tacos are bursting with flavor and topped with a yummy garlicky cilantro sauce. They’re perfect for taco night and will make your taste buds dance!
Whenever I make these tacos, I feel like a chef! The sauce is so good, I could drizzle it on just about anything. Just remember to have extra napkins ready! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut gives great flavor. If you can’t find it, skirt steak or sirloin are good alternatives. Just remember, these need the same cooking time!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this sauce, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will do. It won’t be as punchy, but it will still add flavor. I like to go heavy on the garlic for a stronger taste!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a milder substitute, though it will change the taste a bit. Some people even love mixing in a bit of mint for a fresh twist!
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt: You can use either for creaminess. Greek yogurt is thicker and healthier—perfect for a lighter option. I usually prefer the yogurt for its tang, but both are delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Get Perfectly Cooked Flank Steak?
Cooking flank steak well is key to tasty tacos. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and tender:
- Let the steak marinate for at least 20-30 mins to absorb the flavors.
- Heat your grill or skillet nice and hot. This gives a great sear.
- Cook 4-5 mins per side for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer if unsure; it should read 130-135°F.
- Don’t skip the resting time! Letting it rest for 5-10 mins keeps it juicy.
- Always slice against the grain; this makes each bite tender. Look for the lines in the meat and cut perpendicular to them.
With these tips, you’ll have steak that’s flavorful and tender every time!
Flank Steak Tacos with Garlicky Cilantro Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Flank Steak:
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Garlicky Cilantro Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water (to thin sauce)
For Assembling:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for cooking the steak. Allow a little extra time for marinating if you do it in advance. Overall, you should plan for around 30-45 minutes to enjoy these delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Rub this spice mixture all over the flank steak to ensure it’s evenly coated. Let it marinate at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. If you have time, you can also refrigerate it for up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Cook the Steak:
Heat a grill or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the marinated flank steak on it. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, adjusting the time based on your preferred doneness. After cooking, remove the steak from the heat and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to keep it juicy.
3. Make the Garlicky Cilantro Sauce:
While the steak is resting, it’s time to make the sauce! In a blender or a food processor, add the fresh cilantro leaves, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, lime juice, chopped jalapeño (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Slice the Steak:
After the steak has rested, thinly slice it against the grain into bite-sized strips. This method makes the meat more tender to bite into.
5. Warm the Tortillas:
In a dry skillet or on the grill, warm the tortillas until they are soft and pliable. This should only take a minute or so, so keep an eye on them!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to build your tacos! Place some sliced steak on each tortilla, drizzle generously with the garlicky cilantro sauce, and top with thinly sliced red onion if you like. Feel free to get creative with the toppings!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for some extra zing. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos just before eating for a delightful burst of flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful flank steak tacos with the fresh, creamy, and garlicky cilantro sauce! They are sure to become a favorite!
FAQ about Flank Steak Tacos with Garlicky Cilantro Sauce
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While flank steak is delicious, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the meat. Always cook to the desired doneness!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the garlic sauce. You can also top your tacos with sliced fresh jalapeños or a spicy salsa for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Cilantro Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlicky cilantro sauce a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, give it a quick stir or blend to freshen it up.
What Should I Do with Leftover Steak?
Leftover steak can be easily stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it in salads, sandwiches, or even reheated in scrambled eggs for a delicious breakfast!
