It was one of those busy weeknights when the fridge seemed emptier than a taco shell before the filling! As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled across a hefty flank steak — a perfect opportunity for a slow-cooked feast. These Crock Pot Street Tacos came to life, transforming my simple ingredients into a fiesta of bold flavors. The moment the spices started to mingle with the meat, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me. The thought of crispy corn tortillas cradling tender, juicy beef topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime was nothing short of irresistible.

These tacos aren’t just quick and easy; they celebrate the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals while keeping you off the fast-food rollercoaster. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple, yet crowd-pleasing recipe that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the culinary magic of Crock Pot Street Tacos!

Why are Crock Pot Street Tacos a game changer?

Flavor Explosion: Packed with a symphony of spices, these tacos burst with rich flavors that will please every palate.
Effortless Cooking: Simply toss your ingredients into the Crock Pot, and let it work its magic while you relax or tackle other tasks.
Versatile Meal: Customize your toppings with favorite ingredients like avocado, salsa, or cheese for a personalized touch.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress guests with less hassle, as these tacos are a surefire hit for any gathering or family dinner.
Tender Perfection: The slow-cooking process makes the flank steak incredibly tender, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
With this recipe, you’ll discover a new favorite that elevates your weeknight dinner routine!

Crock Pot Street Taco Ingredients

Get ready to create delicious Crock Pot Street Tacos with these simple ingredients!

For the Tacos

3 lbs flank steak – this cut is perfect for slow cooking, yielding tender meat.
1 tablespoon olive oil – use this to sear the steak for added flavor before slow cooking.
½ white onion (chopped) – brings sweetness and depth to your taco mix.
1 cup beef broth – keeps the meat moist during cooking and enhances the flavor.
1 bundle cilantro (chopped) – adds a refreshing touch when sprinkled on top before serving.
2 fresh limes (juiced) – the acidity brightens up the dish and balances the flavors.

For the Seasoning

1 teaspoon salt – essential for enhancing the taste of the meat.
1 teaspoon pepper – adds a mild heat to the flavor profile.
2 teaspoons minced garlic – infuses the dish with an irresistible aroma.
1 tablespoon chili powder – gives a warm, slightly spicy kick to the tacos.
1 teaspoon paprika – adds color and a subtle sweetness.
1 teaspoon cumin – this earthy spice completes the taco seasoning beautifully.

For Serving

¼ cup butter – use this to warm the tortillas for a rich, buttery flavor.
24 mini corn tortillas – perfect vessels for your flavorful fillings, making these tacos a fun, bite-sized delight.

How to Make Crock Pot Street Tacos

Heat Olive Oil: Begin by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough for a good sear but not smoking.
Season Steak: Generously season your flank steak with salt, pepper, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and minced garlic. This blend of spices is crucial for that street taco flavor.
Sear Flank Steak: Carefully place the seasoned flank steak in the hot skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s well-browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This builds a delicious foundation for your taco filling.
Add Beef Broth: Pour in the beef broth, stirring gently to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
Return Steak: Place the seared flank steak back into the skillet, ensuring it’s submerged in the broth. Cover and cook on low in your Crock Pot for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender.
Shred Steak: Once cooked, remove the steak from the Crock Pot and shred it using two forks. Mix with the chopped cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice for brightness.
Warm Corn Tortillas: In a separate pan, warm the mini corn tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until they become soft and pliable.
Serve Tacos: Fill each warm tortilla with the flavorful shredded steak mixture. Top with extra cilantro and lime juice as desired — your delicious Crock Pot Street Tacos are ready to enjoy!

Optional: Add sliced avocado or your favorite salsa for an extra layer of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Crock Pot Street Tacos are a wonderful option for meal prep, helping you save time on busy weeknights! You can season the flank steak and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Prepare the onion and garlic mixture in advance and refrigerate it as well; this will enhance the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply sear the marinated steak, combine it all in your Crock Pot with beef broth, and cook as instructed. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy tender and flavorful tacos that are just as delicious, keeping your weeknight meals stress-free and delightful!

What to Serve with Crock Pot Street Tacos?

Elevate your taco night experience with these delightful pairings that balance and enhance every bite.

Lime Wedges: Bright and zesty, a squeeze of lime adds an extra layer of freshness that complements the delicious, seasoned beef.
Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, fresh avocado offers a luscious texture that beautifully contrasts the savory meat.
Pickled Red Onions: The tangy crunch of pickled onions introduces a delightful zing, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the tacos.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide a hearty, comforting side that works wonders with the tacos’ flavor sensations.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with fresh, zesty salsa create a perfect appetizer or snack before indulging in your tacos.
Margaritas: Celebrate with a refreshing margarita — its citrusy notes will enhance the flavors and make your meal feel like a fiesta.

For dessert, consider serving Churros: These sweet, cinnamon-sugared treats add a delightful end to your taco meal!

How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Street Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover Crock Pot Street Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the meat and tortillas separate to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze the shredded beef in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Warm the shredded beef on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist.

Tortillas: Store unused tortillas in a sealed bag. If frozen, thaw in the fridge and warm on a skillet before serving.

Crock Pot Street Taco Variations

Feel free to get creative with these variations that are bound to tantalize your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños into the Crock Pot during cooking for an added layer of heat and flavor. This will elevate the dish to a new level of deliciousness!
Beer-Infused: Swap the beef broth for a can of your favorite beer, like lager or IPA. The beer adds a unique flavor and richness that pairs perfectly with tacos.
Smoky Flavor: Add 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a deeper, smoky taste. It brings a wonderful depth that will make your tacos unforgettable.
Vegetarian Twist: Substitute flank steak with 2 cans of black beans or lentils. Cook them with the same spices for a hearty, plant-based taco option.
Citrusy Zing: Incorporate orange juice along with lime juice for a refreshing twist. The sweet acidity brightens the flavors and adds a nice complexity.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh oregano or thyme with your spices to enhance the aromatic profile. Herbs can take your tacos to another level of taste!
Creamy Avocado: Blend ripe avocado with your lime juice to create a creamy topping. Spread it on your tortillas before filling for extra richness.
Crunchy Slaw: Top your tacos with a crunchy slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a squeeze of lime. It adds texture and freshness that balances the flavors beautifully.

Let your culinary imagination run wild, and enjoy every bite of your customized tacos!

Expert Tips for Crock Pot Street Tacos

Pre-sear for Flavor: Searing the flank steak enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step; it adds a rich, caramelized taste that makes a difference.
Keep it Juicy: Ensure the steak is submerged in broth for moist, tender meat. Add more beef broth if needed during cooking.
Freshness Matters: Use fresh cilantro and limes for the best flavor. Dried herbs won’t have the same vibrant impact in your tacos.
Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to personalize your tacos! Add toppings like avocado, diced tomatoes, or pickled onions to elevate your dish.
Avoid Overcooking: If using a different cut of meat, monitor the cooking time closely to prevent toughness. Follow the suggested timings for optimal results.

Embrace these tips for unforgettable Crock Pot Street Tacos that will delight your dinner guests!

Crock Pot Street Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best flank steak?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for a cut that is bright red with minimal fat. Avoid steaks with dark spots or discoloration, as these may indicate age. Fresh flank steak should feel firm to the touch and have a nice marbling of fat for added flavor.

How should I store leftover Crock Pot Street Tacos?
You can store leftover Crock Pot Street Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. It’s best to keep the shredded beef separate from the tortillas to maintain their texture and freshness. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing the beef.

Can I freeze the shredded beef? How?
Absolutely! Freeze the shredded beef in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. To do this, let the beef cool completely after cooking. Then, portion it into meal-sized servings, label the bags with the date, and place it flat in the freezer for easy stacking. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the stovetop.

What should I do if my flank steak is tough?
If your flank steak turns out tough, it could be due to overcooking or cutting against the grain. To remedy this, shred the cooked meat finely and mix in a bit of extra beef broth or a sauce to add moisture and tenderness. If the steak was overcooked, consider using lower heat next time and a meat thermometer to check for doneness!

Can I make these tacos with a different kind of meat?
Very! While flank steak is excellent for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute it with brisket or chuck roast for a different taste. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require longer cooking to become tender. Always shred or slice the meat against the grain to enhance tenderness!

Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re serving these Crock Pot Street Tacos to guests, consider common allergies like gluten, as traditional corn tortillas are generally gluten-free, but always check labels. Additionally, for a lighter or vegetarian option, you can replace the beef with jackfruit or marinated mushrooms for a flavorful filling that everyone can enjoy!