Grilled Onion & Skirt Steak Tacos

Grilled Onion & Skirt Steak Tacos are a bold and flavorful take on classic street tacos, combining tender, juicy steak with sweet, charred onions. Cooked over an open flame or hot grill, these tacos are packed with smoky flavor and topped with fresh, simple ingredients that let the grilled steak shine. They’re fast, satisfying, and perfect for taco night, summer cookouts, or weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, beefy flavor from skirt steak
• Sweet and smoky grilled onions add depth
• Quick-cooking and ideal for busy weeknights
• Great for entertaining or taco bars
• Easily customizable with your favorite toppings
• Authentic street taco vibe
• Pairs well with salsas, guacamole, and fresh herbs
• Uses minimal ingredients for maximum flavor
• Great option for outdoor grilling
• Family-friendly and crowd-approved

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Skirt steak
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Lime juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground cumin
• Large yellow or white onions, sliced into thick rings
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, diced onions, avocado, salsa, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime wedges

directions

this recipe

1. In a bowl or resealable bag, combine skirt steak with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, salt, pepper, and cumin. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
2. Preheat grill to high heat.
3. Grill the onion slices directly on the grill grates or in a grill basket until charred and tender, about 4–5 minutes per side. Set aside.
4. Grill the skirt steak over high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, or until medium-rare to medium. Let rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
5. Warm tortillas on the grill for 20–30 seconds per side.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced steak, grilled onions, and your choice of toppings. Serve with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30–120 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes (including minimum marinating time)

Variations

• Use flank steak or ribeye if skirt steak is unavailable
• Add grilled peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies
• Marinate the steak with chipotle in adobo for smoky heat
• Use pickled red onions instead of grilled for tangy contrast
• Top with a creamy chipotle mayo or avocado crema

storage/reheating

Store leftover steak and onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the steak gently in a skillet or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking. Reheat onions in a skillet until warmed through. Tortillas can be quickly reheated in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of steak for tacos?

Skirt steak is ideal because it’s flavorful, tender when sliced against the grain, and cooks quickly on the grill.

How do I keep skirt steak from being tough?

Marinate it and make sure to slice it thinly against the grain after resting.

Can I cook the steak indoors?

Yes, use a cast iron skillet or grill pan over high heat for similar results.

What kind of onions are best for grilling?

Yellow or white onions hold up well on the grill and caramelize nicely.

How long should I marinate the steak?

At least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for more flavor. Avoid overnight, as lime juice can start to “cook” the meat.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely. Try chicken thighs, shrimp, or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Are corn or flour tortillas better for these tacos?

Either works—corn for a more traditional feel, flour for a softer, more flexible taco.

What toppings go best with these tacos?

Fresh cilantro, diced onion, cotija cheese, avocado, or a squeeze of lime all enhance the flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, marinate the steak ahead and grill just before serving. You can also pre-grill and reheat.

What sides go well with steak tacos?

Mexican rice, refried beans, elote (Mexican street corn), or a fresh cucumber salad make great pairings.

Conclusion

Grilled Onion & Skirt Steak Tacos are a must-try for any taco lover who craves smoky, juicy, and flavorful bites. With minimal prep and quick grilling time, these tacos bring the taste of your favorite taqueria right to your backyard. Pile them high with your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love—any night of the week.

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