Carne Asada Steak is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings authentic Mexican flavors right to your grill. This marinated and spice-rubbed flank steak is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or salads, this recipe is not only delicious but also budget-friendly. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, Carne Asada Steak will impress your guests with its vibrant taste and versatility.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have an amazing dish ready to serve.
- Incredible Flavor – The combination of marinades and spices ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Versatile Uses – Great for tacos, burritos, salads, or simply served on its own.
- Perfect for Gatherings – This recipe can easily be scaled up to feed larger crowds without breaking the bank.
- Quick Cooking Time – Ready in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking Carne Asada Steak, ensure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment makes the grilling process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic bag or sealable container
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill – Provides the high heat needed for perfectly seared steak with beautiful grill marks.
- Meat thermometer – Ensures your steak reaches the perfect level of doneness without overcooking.
- Mixing bowl – Ideal for combining marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding the steak.
Ingredients
Carne Asada marinated and spice rubbed for the most juicy, tender, flavorful Carne Asada EVER! This Carne Asada recipe is perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, salads, etc. at a fraction of the price and fabulous for crowds!
For the Marinade
- 1 1/2 – 2 pounds flank steak, pounded thin
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
For the Spice Mix
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 tsp EACH salt, chili powder, onion powder
- 1/2 tsp EACH pepper, cayenne pepper
For Serving
- Our favorite cheese (I like cheddar/cotija combo)
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- pico de gallo
- sour cream
- Guacamole
- lettuce
- tomato
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- Recipe Mexican Street Fries
How to Make Carne Asada Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix
To start off, add all spice mix ingredients into a small plastic bag or sealable container. Whisk them together until well combined. Set this aside as it will be used later.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
In a large freezer bag, combine all marinade ingredients. Whisk until smooth. Add three tablespoons of your prepared spice mix to the marinade and whisk again. Place the flank steak into the bag and seal it tightly while removing excess air. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for about 4 to 12 hours.
Step 3: Create Spice Rub
When you are ready to grill your Carne Asada Steak, take your remaining spice mix and combine it with two tablespoons of olive oil in a bowl to form a spice rub.
Step 4: Prepare the Steak
Once marinated, discard the marinade from the bag. Pat your steaks dry using paper towels—this helps achieve a nice crust when grilling. Rub the spice mixture evenly all over your steak and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 to 60 minutes.
Step 5: Grill It Up
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill each side of the steak for about 5-6 minutes or until a meat thermometer reads between 130-135 degrees F for medium rare or around 140 degrees F for medium doneness. Remember that cooking times may vary based on thickness.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
After grilling, remove your steak from heat and allow it to rest for about ten minutes before slicing against the grain on a diagonal. Enjoy your perfectly cooked Carne Asada Steak!
How to Serve Carne Asada Steak
Carne Asada Steak is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various delicious ways. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish and impress your guests.
Tacos
- Corn or flour tortillas filled with sliced Carne Asada, topped with cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh burst of flavor.
Burritos
- Wrap the juicy Carne Asada in a large tortilla with rice, beans, cheese, and salsa for a hearty meal that’s perfect for on-the-go eating.
Nachos
- Layer tortilla chips with chopped Carne Asada, melted cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings like guacamole and sour cream for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Salads
- Toss sliced Carne Asada on top of mixed greens with avocado, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing for a light yet satisfying option.
Quesadillas
- Grill floured tortillas filled with cheese and Carne Asada until crispy. Cut into wedges for an easy appetizer or snack.
Sandwiches
- Slice the steak thinly and serve it on crusty bread with grilled onions and peppers for a flavorful sandwich.
How to Perfect Carne Asada Steak
To achieve the ultimate Carne Asada Steak, follow these essential tips that will ensure juicy and flavorful results every time.
Marinate Well: Allow your steak to marinate for at least 4 hours. This helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with rich flavors.
Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness. You can also use skirt steak if you prefer a different texture.
Let it Rest: After cooking, let the steak rest for 10 minutes. This helps retain moisture when you cut into it.
Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the steak against the grain to achieve tender pieces that are easy to chew.
Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Steak
Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada Steak can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for a sweet and spicy treat.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lime juice and fresh cilantro adds brightness that complements the rich steak perfectly.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and make an excellent side dish that balances out the meal.
Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole provides creaminess and flavor that pairs well with grilled meats.
Pico de Gallo: A refreshing mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds crunch and acidity to each bite.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies grilled to perfection brings added color and health benefits to your plate.
Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with spicy salsa offer a fun appetizer before diving into your main dish.
Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices as a classic accompaniment that enhances any Mexican meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Carne Asada Steak, it’s easy to run into pitfalls that can affect the final flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
Using the wrong cut of meat: Always choose flank steak or skirt steak for the best results. Other cuts may not provide the tenderness and flavor you desire.
Not marinating long enough: Marinating your steak for at least 4 hours (up to 12) is crucial for maximizing flavor. Don’t rush this step!
Skipping the resting period: After grilling, let the steak rest for about 10 minutes. This helps retain juices, ensuring a moist and delicious bite.
Cooking at too high a temperature: If you prefer your steak medium rare, cook on medium-high heat but avoid high heat unless you’re looking for a rare steak. This prevents overcooking.
Cutting against the grain incorrectly: Always slice against the grain at an angle. This method minimizes chewiness and enhances tenderness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked Carne Asada Steak in an airtight container.
- It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
- Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Carne Asada Steak
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Use a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Carne Asada Steak
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place steak on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and warm the sliced steak for about 3-5 minutes, stirring often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Carne Asada Steak:
How do I make my Carne Asada Steak more flavorful?
To enhance flavor, ensure you marinate your steak long enough—ideally overnight. Experiment with different spices or citrus levels based on your taste preference.
Can I use other cuts of meat for Carne Asada?
While flank and skirt steaks are traditional, you can try ribeye or sirloin. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on thickness and fat content.
What should I serve with Carne Asada Steak?
Carne Asada pairs well with tacos, burritos, salads, or simply alongside grilled vegetables. You can also top it with guacamole or fresh salsa for extra flavor.
Can I smoke my Carne Asada Steak?
Absolutely! Consider using a smoker if you want a unique twist on traditional grilling. Adjust cooking times based on your smoker’s settings.
How do I know when my Carne Asada Steak is done?
Use an internal thermometer; aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare and around 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Carne Asada Steak recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various meals from tacos to salads. Feel free to customize your marinade or toppings according to personal taste preferences! Enjoy bringing this vibrant Mexican dish into your home!
Carne Asada Steak
Carne Asada Steak is a flavorful and tender dish that brings authentic Mexican flavors to your table. This marinated flank steak is perfect for a variety of meals, from tacos and burritos to salads. With its juicy texture and a delightful blend of spices, this recipe is ideal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying an intimate family dinner. Quick to prepare and budget-friendly, Carne Asada Steak is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant taste and versatility.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 – 2 pounds flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Marinade spice mix (cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, chili powder, onion powder, pepper, cayenne)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together marinade ingredients: olive oil, soy sauce, orange juice, lime juice, brown sugar.
- Add three tablespoons of the spice mix to the marinade and combine.
- Place the flank steak in a large plastic bag with marinade; seal tightly and refrigerate for 4 to 12 hours.
- Once marinated, discard the liquid and pat the steak dry. Rub with remaining spice mixture.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat; grill each side for about 5-6 minutes until desired doneness (130-135°F for medium rare).
- Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces (113g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Marinate overnight for enhanced flavor. Serve in tacos, burritos, or salads for versatile meal options.