Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carne Asada is a flavorful Mexican grilled steak dish known for its bold, zesty marinade and smoky, charred edges. Typically made with skirt or flank steak, it’s marinated in citrus juice, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection. Whether served in tacos, burritos, or on its own with rice and beans, Carne Asada is a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for cookouts and weeknight dinners alike.

ingredients

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

flank or skirt steakorange juice lime juice soy sauceolive oil garlic cloves chopped cilantroground cuminchili powderblack pepperkosher saltjalapeño or serrano pepper (optional)

directions

Place the steak in a large resealable bag or shallow dish.

In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, pepper, and salt.

Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated. Add sliced jalapeño if desired for extra heat.

Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat.

Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired doneness is reached.

Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, or your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 2-24 hoursGrilling time: 10-15 minutesResting time: 10 minutesTotal time: up to 25 hours (including marinating)

Variations

Use lemon juice in place of lime for a different citrus twist.

Add beer or tequila to the marinade for depth of flavor.

Swap out cilantro with parsley if preferred.

Serve over salad greens for a low-carb option.

Make carne asada fries by topping crispy fries with sliced steak, cheese, and toppings.

storage/reheating

Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.For longer storage, freeze the cooked steak in slices for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What cut of meat is best for Carne Asada?

Skirt or flank steak are ideal due to their texture and flavor when grilled.

How long should I marinate Carne Asada?

At least 2 hours, but overnight yields the best flavor.

Can I cook this without a grill?

Yes, a cast iron skillet or grill pan works well on the stovetop.

Can I use chicken instead?

Yes, the marinade works great with boneless chicken thighs or breasts.

Should I tenderize the meat before marinating?

It’s optional, but lightly pounding can help make the steak more tender.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

Omit the chili powder and jalapeño for a milder flavor.

Can I meal prep Carne Asada?

Absolutely—marinate ahead and cook when ready to serve.

How do I know when it’s done?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.

Why slice against the grain?

Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers and makes the meat more tender.

Is Carne Asada gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Conclusion

Carne Asada brings bold flavor and versatility to your kitchen or backyard grill. With its citrusy, garlicky marinade and tender grilled steak, it’s perfect for tacos, bowls, and more. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite for meals that impress without the fuss.