Grilled Onion & Skirt Steak Tacos

Grilled onion & skirt steak tacos are the perfect combination of bold flavor and simple preparation. Marinated skirt steak is grilled until juicy and charred, paired with sweet, caramelized onions, and wrapped in warm tortillas for a taco night that’s anything but ordinary. They’re perfect for backyard gatherings, weeknight dinners, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, flavorful steak with a perfect sear from the grill
• Sweet and smoky grilled onions add balance and depth
• Quick cooking time, great for weeknights or casual entertaining
• Easily customizable with your favorite toppings
• Great for taco bars or make-ahead meal prep

ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Skirt steak
• Olive oil
• Lime juice
• Garlic (minced)
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder
• Salt and black pepper
• Large sweet onions (sliced into thick rings)
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, avocado, salsa, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream, pickled red onions

directions

1. In a bowl or resealable bag, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add skirt steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Slice onions into thick rounds and brush lightly with olive oil.
4. Grill onions for 4–5 minutes per side, until softened and charred. Set aside and roughly chop.
5. Remove steak from marinade and grill for 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until medium-rare to medium.
6. Rest steak for 5–10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
7. Warm tortillas on the grill for 20–30 seconds per side.
8. Assemble tacos: layer sliced steak and grilled onions in tortillas, then top with your favorite garnishes.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings (8–10 tacos).
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes–4 hours
Cook time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes–1 hour

Variations

• Spicy: Add chipotle peppers or hot sauce to the marinade
• Garlic-lime crema: Mix sour cream, lime juice, and garlic for a creamy topping
• Southwest style: Add black beans, corn, and shredded cheese
• Street taco style: Use smaller tortillas and keep toppings minimal—just cilantro, onion, and lime
• Carne asada twist: Use a traditional carne asada marinade with orange juice and soy sauce for extra zing

storage/reheating

Store leftover steak and onions separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or briefly in the microwave.
Warm tortillas fresh before assembling for best texture.
Steak can also be frozen after cooking—slice first and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for steak tacos?

Skirt steak is ideal—it’s flavorful, cooks quickly, and slices beautifully against the grain.

How do I keep the steak tender?

Marinate to add moisture and flavor, and don’t overcook—medium-rare to medium is perfect. Always slice against the grain.

Can I grill the onions whole?

Yes—grill in thick rounds for easier flipping, then chop after grilling.

Can I use another cut of beef?

Yes, flank steak or flat iron steak are great alternatives.

What kind of tortillas work best?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work well too—especially for larger tacos.

How long should I marinate the steak?

At least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours for best flavor. Avoid marinating too long to prevent a mushy texture.

Can I cook this indoors?

Yes—use a grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for a similar char.

What sauces go well with these tacos?

Try avocado crema, chipotle mayo, salsa verde, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Are grilled onion tacos spicy?

Not necessarily—the sweetness of the onions balances the spice. Adjust the heat level with your choice of chili powder or toppings.

Can I prep everything ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the steak, chop the onions, and prep toppings ahead. Grill everything fresh just before serving.

Conclusion

Grilled onion & skirt steak tacos deliver bold, smoky flavor with minimal fuss. Whether you’re hosting taco night or just craving something hearty and fresh, these tacos hit all the right notes—juicy steak, sweet onions, and endless topping options wrapped in a warm tortilla. Fire up the grill and make it taco night, every night.

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