Game days call for food that’s bold, fast, and built for sharing, and 3-Ingredient Chipotle-Lime Grilled Steak checks every box. When the plan is a taco bar to watch the game, this recipe keeps prep simple while delivering big, smoky flavor that feels right at home outdoors—even in winter. A quick marinade, high heat, and a short cook time turn steak into the centerpiece everyone builds around, from warm tortillas to crisp toppings laid out beside the grill.
Cold weather doesn’t mean the grill sits idle. Winter afternoons bring a different kind of energy outside, especially when the game is on and the fire is lit. This steak thrives in that setting because it asks very little yet gives plenty back. Chipotle brings gentle heat, lime adds brightness, and the grill does the rest. Each slice comes off juicy with a char that holds up under salsa, onions, or a simple squeeze of citrus. Because the flavor is clean and direct, guests can customize without losing what makes the meat shine.
A taco bar works best when timing stays relaxed. This cut cooks quickly, rests briefly, then slices easily for passing plates. While it grills, sides come together indoors or right beside you—warm tortillas, grilled peppers, fresh herbs, or whatever fits the moment. The results are amazing, letting everyone focus on the game instead of hovering over the kitchen. Outdoor cooking keeps traffic flowing, clears space inside, and turns halftime into part of the experience rather than a rush.
At Alfresco Backyard Living, we believe year-round outdoor meals should feel effortless and rewarding. Cold air, good food, and shared cheers make winter gatherings memorable, especially when the grill handles the heavy lifting. A recipe like this proves you don’t need a long list or extra steps to host well. All you need is solid heat, quality tools, and a reason to gather.
You can explore our vast selection of products at www.alfrescobackyard.com or visit us in person at our large retail location in St. James, New York. Our team is committed to providing exceptional service and helping you find exactly what you need to enhance your outdoor living experience.
Serves 6
3-Ingredient Chipotle-Lime Grilled Steak Ingredients
- 1 canned chipotle chile in adobo, ribs and seeds removed, plus 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lime zest (from about 2 limes), divided
- 1/3 cup fresh lime juice (from about 3 limes)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more
- 1 1/2 pounds skirt or flank steak
- Lime wedges (for serving)
3-Ingredient Chipotle-Lime Grilled Steak Directions
- Blend chile, adobo sauce, 1 tsp. of lime zest, lime juice, oil, 1 1/2 tsp. of salt, and 1 tsp. of pepper in a blender until smooth. Place the steak in a large resealable plastic bag, pour the marinade over it, and toss to coat. Marinate, tossing occasionally, at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or chill overnight.
- If chilled, let the steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Prepare a grill or grill pan for medium-high heat. Remove steak from marinade; discard marinade. Grill steak until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the steak registers 120–125°F for medium-rare, 2–3 minutes per side for skirt steak, and 3–4 minutes per side for flank steak. Let rest 10 minutes before thinly slicing against the grain (to make slicing easier for skirt steak, cut into 5–6" segments, then slice against the grain).
- Transfer to a platter and top with the remaining 1/2 tsp. of lime zest; season with salt and pepper. Serve with lime wedges alongside.
Taken from epicurious.com
