Carne Asada Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carne Asada Tacos are a beloved Mexican street food that packs bold flavors in every bite. The grilled beef is marinated in a blend of citrus, garlic, and spices, creating a smoky and juicy filling that pairs perfectly with fresh toppings. Served in warm tortillas and topped with onions, cilantro, and salsa, these tacos are a fiesta of flavors that make for a delicious and satisfying meal.

ingredients

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

flank or skirt steak
lime juice
orange juice
garlic
olive oil
cumin
chili powder
paprika
salt
black pepper
corn tortillas
fresh cilantro
diced onions
salsa (optional)

directions

1. In a bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
2. Place the flank or skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over the steak, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
3. Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade.
5. Grill the steak for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
7. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
8. Assemble the tacos by placing a few slices of carne asada on each tortilla, and top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and salsa.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour to overnight
Grilling time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes to overnight

Variations

• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice on top for an extra burst of citrus.
• Top with avocado or guacamole for a creamy texture.
• Add a handful of shredded cheese for a cheesy twist.
• Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for a softer base.
• Try different salsas like pico de gallo, verde salsa, or a smoky chipotle salsa.

storage/reheating

Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat the carne asada in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through.
Tortillas can be stored separately at room temperature or in the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can substitute with ribeye or sirloin, but skirt or flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor.

Can I cook the carne asada on the stovetop?
Yes, if you don’t have a grill, you can cook the steak in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.

What toppings go best with carne asada tacos?
Cilantro, onions, lime, salsa, and avocado are classic toppings, but feel free to customize with your favorite taco toppings!

Can I make the marinade without orange juice?
Yes, you can substitute the orange juice with extra lime juice or use a small amount of vinegar for a tangy flavor.

Are carne asada tacos gluten-free?
Yes, if you use corn tortillas, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze the carne asada?
Yes, you can freeze the grilled carne asada for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Carne Asada Tacos are the perfect balance of juicy, flavorful beef and fresh toppings, making them a go-to choice for any taco lover. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quick weeknight meal, these tacos are sure to impress with their smoky, zesty flavors. Don’t forget to top them off with your favorite salsa and enjoy!

Print