There’s nothing quite like the vibrant sizzle of steak on the grill, especially when it’s marinated to perfection. One evening, after a long week of takeout and frozen dinners, I found myself yearning for a burst of flavor that only homemade food could provide. That’s when Carne Asada Tacos entered my kitchen scene—a simple yet utterly delicious recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into something magical.
As I inhaled the smoky aroma of cumin and chipotle wafting from my skillet, the anticipation grew. These tacos aren’t just easy to whip up; they also bridge the gap between comfort food and culinary delight. Wrapped in warm corn tortillas, each taco is a canvas for fresh toppings and zesty salsas, making them perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
Grab your apron, because I’m about to share my go-to Carne Asada Tacos recipe that promises to impress without the stress. Ready to elevate your taco game? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Carne Asada Tacos a Must-Try?
Bold flavors: The marinade infuses the steak with a delightful mix of soy sauce, garlic, and citrus that elevates each bite.
Quick prep time: With just 15 minutes of hands-on time, you can create a meal that feels gourmet without hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they allow guests to customize their tacos with fresh toppings like cilantro, onion, and zesty salsas.
Versatile pairing: Serve alongside refreshing salads or rice, making it a fit for any occasion.
Homemade goodness: Ditch the fast food and savor the satisfaction that comes from preparing these tacos right in your own kitchen!
Ready to explore more delightful recipes? Check out my other easy weeknight dinners for even more inspiration!
Carne Asada Taco Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Skirt steak or flap meat – 2 lbs; this cut gives the best flavor and tenderness for carne asada.
• Soy sauce – 1/4 c; it adds a salty depth that enhances the overall taste.
• Neutral oil – 1/4 c; use this to help the marinade adhere to the meat.
• Garlic – 6 cloves; fresh garlic brings a bright punch to the marinade!
• Cilantro – 1/2 bunch (stems and leaves); adds earthy brightness to the meat’s flavor.
• Orange – juice and zest from 1; packs a refreshing, sweet note to the marinade.
• Limes – juice from 3; citrus acidity helps tenderize the steak beautifully.
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce – 3 tbsp, chopped; they add smokiness and a kick of heat!
• Cumin – 1 tbsp; this warm spice is key to authentic flavor.
• Smoked paprika – 1 tbsp; it lends a delicious smoky depth.
• Dried oregano – 1 tbsp; adds a hint of herbal depth to the mix.
• Kosher salt – 2 tsp; don’t skip this essential seasoning!
For Serving
• Corn tortillas – 12 small, warmed; they provide the perfect vessel for your tacos.
• Finely chopped onion and cilantro – for garnish; a refreshing combination to top off your tacos.
• Lime wedges – for squeezing; the citrus brightens every bite of your carne asada tacos!
• Sliced radish – adds crunch and a peppery bite that complements the flavors.
• Tomatillo Salsa – for a fresh, tangy kick; it’s a delightful topping.
• Creamy Avocado Salsa – brings a luscious creaminess that perfectly balances the tacos.
Now that we’ve gathered everything for our sumptuous carne asada tacos, it’s time to create your homemade masterpiece!
How to Make Carne Asada Tacos
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Combine the steak with the sliced onions in a large bowl or a baking dish, ensuring they’re spread evenly to better absorb the marinade flavors.
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Blend all the marinade ingredients together in a blender or food processor until smooth, creating a fragrant mixture that awakens your senses.
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Pour the aromatic marinade over the steak and onions, tossing well to coat every piece; this helps the flavors penetrate deeply.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or up to 24 hours to allow the steak to marinate and become incredibly tender.
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Heat your grill, grill pan, or cast iron pan over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot, which is essential for achieving that perfect char.
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Grill the steak in batches for 3-4 minutes undisturbed on each side, until slightly charred and cooked through; look for a warm pink inside.
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Transfer the cooked steak to a clean tray or platter and allow it to rest for 5 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor.
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Slice the steak against the grain into long strips, then chop those strips into small bite-sized pieces for easy taco assembly.
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Transfer the diced carne asada to a bowl or platter and drizzle any residual juices from the cutting board over the top to enhance flavor.
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Serve with warm corn tortillas, allowing everyone to build their own tacos topped with salsa, lime, diced onion, and cilantro for a burst of freshness!
Optional: Top with sliced radish for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Carne Asada Tacos Variations
Looking to put your personal spin on these delectable tacos? Let your creativity shine with these tantalizing twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to keep the flavors intact without gluten.
- Spicy Kick: Add more chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to ramp up the heat.
- Herb Infusion: Swap cilantro with fresh parsley or a mix of fresh herbs like mint and basil for a fresh twist.
- Smoky Option: Experiment with smoked salt in place of kosher salt to enhance that delicious smoky profile.
- Veggie Delight: Use portobello mushrooms or zucchini slices marinated and grilled as a plant-based alternative that everyone will love!
- Cheesy Goodness: Top your tacos with crumbled queso fresco or shredded Oaxaca cheese for a creamy layer of flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced mango or pineapple salsa for a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory carne asada.
- Crisp Upgrade: Include crispy cabbage or radicchio for added crunch and a peppery bite that elevates each taco!
With these tempting variations, you’re all set to create a carne asada taco experience that’s uniquely yours! Enjoy the journey of flavor!
Expert Tips for Carne Asada Tacos
• Marinate Wisely: Ensure the steak marinates for at least 2-3 hours—up to 24 hours is ideal for achieving maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Rest the Meat: Allowing the grilled steak to rest for 5 minutes before slicing prevents juices from escaping, ensuring juicy carne asada tacos every time!
• Avoid Overcrowding: When grilling, cook the steak in batches to maintain high heat and achieve that sought-after char. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak against the grain is crucial for tender pieces; it enhances the eating experience in every delicious bite of your tacos.
• Customize Toppings: Encourage guests to get creative with toppings! The combination of diced onions, cilantro, and zesty salsas will elevate your carne asada tacos.
• Warm Tortillas: Always warm your corn tortillas to make them pliable and prevent them from cracking while loading them with all those tasty fillings!
How to Store and Freeze Carne Asada Tacos
Fridge: Place leftover carne asada in an airtight container; it can be stored for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to retain juiciness.
Freezer: If you have extra cooked carne asada, freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tortillas: To maintain their freshness, store leftover tortillas in a zipped plastic bag in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm on a skillet before using.
Reheating: For the best flavor and texture, reheat the carne asada on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Enjoy your carne asada tacos at their best!
What to Serve with Carne Asada Tacos?
Elevate your taco night with these delightful sides that perfectly complement the smoky, savory flavors of your carne asada.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A fluffy and fragrant rice dish that adds a zesty brightness, makes for a perfect bed to soak up leftover juices.
- Black Bean Salad: This refreshing mix of black beans, corn, and avocado provides a creamy texture and balances the savory meat with its mild sweetness.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet charred corn adds crunch and a touch of sweetness, making it a seasonal favorite that pairs beautifully with tacos.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños create a symphony of flavors that lightens up each bite of your carne asada tacos.
- Margaritas: A perfectly mixed margarita offers a refreshing balance with its citrus notes, enhancing the vibrant flavors of your taco feast.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring richness that works magic against the spiced meat, ensuring every bite is an indulgence.
- Chips and Tomatillo Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with a tangy tomatillo salsa are irresistible for dipping and pair wonderfully with your flavorful tacos.
- Creamy Avocado Salsa: This luscious topping can stand alone as a dip, adding a rich flavor that draws people in and compliments the tacos’ smokiness.
- Radish Slaw: Add a crunchy slaw for a refreshing contrast, with the radishes’ peppery bite enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Chocolate Flan: End the meal on a sweet note; this silky, decadent dessert pairs great with hearty flavors, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Carne Asada Tacos are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the skirt steak and onions up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply follow the first three steps of the recipe and refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container, ensuring the meat is entirely covered in marinade to maintain its juiciness. Additionally, you can finely chop the garnishes—cilantro, onion, and radish—one day ahead and store them in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just grill the marinated steak, let it rest, slice, and assemble with your prep ingredients. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness of homemade carne asada tacos with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Carne Asada Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best steak for carne asada?
Absolutely! For carne asada, you want to choose cuts like skirt steak or flap meat, as they provide both flavor and tenderness. Look for well-marbled meat with a rich red color and minimal dark spots, which can indicate age. Fresh cuts will yield the best results, so don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for recommendations!
What’s the best way to store leftover carne asada?
No problem! Place leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay good for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat to help keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
Can I freeze cooked carne asada?
Certainly! If you’ve got extra cooked carne asada, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. For optimum results, portion it out into meal-sized servings. To thaw, simply transfer it to the fridge overnight, and then reheat in a skillet. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy your delicious tacos later!
How can I prevent the steak from being tough?
Very! To avoid tough carne asada, make sure to marinate the steak for a minimum of 2-3 hours and ideally up to 24 hours. Also, slicing the steak against the grain is crucial; this means cutting across the fibers of the meat, resulting in tender and easy-to-chew pieces. Resting the meat for 5 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, which further enhances tenderness.
Are carne asada tacos safe for my pets?
It depends! While the ingredients in carne asada tacos don’t contain harmful substances for pets, the spices (like garlic and onion) can be toxic to dogs and cats in large amounts. So, I recommend keeping the tacos for human enjoyment only. If you want to treat your furry friends, consider cooking a plain piece of steak without seasoning just for them!
What can I pair with carne asada tacos?
The more the merrier! For a full meal, pair your carne asada tacos with refreshing sides like a crisp cabbage slaw, Mexican street corn salad, or even a zesty tomato and avocado salad. Just be sure to include plenty of lime wedges and your favorite salsas for that perfect finishing touch!
Irresistible Carne Asada Tacos That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the steak with the sliced onions in a large bowl or a baking dish, ensuring they're spread evenly to better absorb the marinade flavors.
- Blend all the marinade ingredients together in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Pour the marinade over the steak and onions, tossing well to coat every piece.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours or up to 24 hours.
- Heat your grill, grill pan, or cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill the steak in batches for 3-4 minutes undisturbed on each side, until slightly charred and cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked steak to a clean tray or platter and allow it to rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice the steak against the grain into long strips, then chop those strips into small bite-sized pieces.
- Transfer the diced carne asada to a bowl or platter and drizzle any residual juices over the top.
- Serve with warm corn tortillas, allowing everyone to build their own tacos topped with salsa, lime, diced onion, and cilantro.