Name: Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: PT-491752H31M6S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak; ½ cup orange juice; 4 Tbsp fresh lime juice; 3 Tbsp liquid aminos or soy sauce; 2 Tbsp white vinegar or rice vinegar; ¼ cup avocado oil; 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp sea salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Corn tortillas; White onions, chopped; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Store-bought or homemade salsa; Optional toppings: pico de gallo, sour cream, green onion, red onion, guacamole, cotija cheese, creamy coleslaw

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you are craving an explosion of vibrant, zesty flavors wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla, this Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is your answer. The combination of tender, marinated flank steak grilled to smoky perfection with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and garlic makes every bite unforgettable. These tacos are not just a meal, but a celebration of authentic Mexican street food right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a casual weeknight dinner, this Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is straightforward to make and incredibly rewarding to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Three soft white corn tortillas each hold a layer of small dark brown cooked meat pieces, topped with bright green chopped cilantro and sprinkled with small white onion cubes. Around the tortillas on the white marbled surface are halved lime pieces showing a juicy yellow-green inside, whole and sliced radishes with bright pink skin and white centers, and some scattered chopped cilantro. The colors contrast well with the dark meat and the fresh, vibrant vegetables placed casually around the tortillas photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients just right is the secret to making these tacos burst with flavor. Each component plays its role: the citrus juices tenderize and brighten the steak, the garlic and cilantro provide that signature punch, and the corn tortillas bring it all together with their gentle earthiness.

2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak: Choose a cut with good marbling for juicy, flavorful carne asada.
½ cup orange juice: Adds a sweet citrus note that helps tenderize the meat.
4 Tbsp fresh lime juice: The lime adds brightness and balances the flavors beautifully.
3 Tbsp liquid aminos or soy sauce: Brings a subtle umami depth without overpowering the marinade.
2 Tbsp white vinegar or rice vinegar: Provides acidity to further tenderize and lift the steak flavors.
¼ cup avocado oil*: A neutral oil that withstands high heat, perfect for grilling or skillet searing.
1 cup fresh cilantro (chopped): The fresh herb adds a fragrant, herbal freshness throughout the dish.
5 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses the meat with a rich, aromatic savoriness.
1 tsp sea salt: Enhances every flavor and brings out the steak’s natural juices.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth and slight kick.
Corn tortillas: Traditional and slightly sweet, perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
White onions (chopped): For that crisp bite and mild pungency on top.
Fresh cilantro (chopped): Additional garnish that enlivens each taco.
Store-bought or homemade salsa: Adds a spicy, tangy contrast that makes every mouthful sing.

How to Make Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

Start by combining the orange juice, fresh lime juice, liquid aminos, vinegar, avocado oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This vibrant marinade is the heart of the carne asada flavor profile, infusing the meat with brightness and depth. Place your flank steak in a large zip-lock bag, pour the marinade over, seal it tightly, and massage gently to coat evenly. Let it refrigerate for at least one hour, but for the best flavor and tenderness, aim for 4 to 8 hours. This slow soak ensures the meat soaks up every delicious note.

Step 2: Grill or Pan-Sear the Steak

When ready to cook, remove the steak from the fridge and let it warm to room temperature—this helps it cook evenly. If using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (around 400 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit). Pat the steak dry with paper towels to get a perfect sear and lay it over direct heat. Cook for about 6 minutes per side for medium-rare or until your preferred doneness is reached. For stovetop cooking, heat a cast-iron skillet with a little oil until very hot. Sear the steak 6 to 8 minutes per side, checking doneness with an instant-read thermometer if needed. This step builds that irresistible crust that locks in all the juices.

Step 3: Slice and Crisp the Meat

After cooking, let the steak rest for 15 minutes—this rest period lets the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender. Slice the meat thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. For an extra crispy texture, toss these pieces into a hot cast-iron skillet and cook until just charred. This step adds a smoky crunch that makes your Carne Asada Tacos Recipe really stand out.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Warm up your corn tortillas in a microwave or gently over an open flame if you have a gas stove for that perfectly soft but slightly charred base. Fill each tortilla with the tender carne asada, then top with chopped white onions, fresh cilantro, and your favorite salsa. Every element combines to create a taco bursting with layers of texture and flavor that will keep you reaching for more.

How to Serve Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Three soft corn tortillas each hold dark brown grilled meat pieces arranged in an uneven pile. On top of the meat, there is a small layer of finely chopped white onion and green cilantro leaves. Around the tortillas, extra garnishes include thin slices of red and white radish and a wedge of lime with its bright yellow-green flesh visible. The scene is set on a white marbled surface that adds a light contrast to the dark meat and colorful garnishes, creating a fresh and appetizing look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Some simple, fresh garnishes can elevate your tacos to unforgettable. Chopped white onions and extra cilantro always brighten the dish, while a squeeze of fresh lime adds a zesty freshness that cuts through the richness of the steak. For a creamy contrast, add a dollop of guacamole or creamy coleslaw. Cotija cheese or crumbled queso fresco can intro a salty tang that balances the smoky meat perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve these tacos alongside traditional Mexican sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp jicama and cucumber salad to complement the rich flavors. A tangy and spicy pico de gallo or homemade salsa verde also pairs beautifully, offering a vibrant, fresh balance. For something heartier, grilled corn with a dusting of chili powder and a drizzle of lime is a crowd-pleaser and simple to make.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not get creative and serve your carne asada tacos family-style on a colorful platter piled high with all the fixings? You could also create mini taco sliders for a party setting or turn the filling into a hearty taco salad. Using large lettuce leaves or crispy tostadas instead of tortillas offers a unique twist that’s deliciously crunchy and low-carb friendly. The options are endless, and every presentation celebrates this vibrant Carne Asada Tacos Recipe in its own special way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover carne asada keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the meat from any moist garnishes or tortillas to prevent sogginess. The steak maintains its flavor and texture, perfect for a quick reheat or for adding to salads and rice bowls.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked carne asada for up to 2 months. Portion the sliced meat into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the meat in a hot skillet over medium heat to keep it juicy and slightly crispy. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, covering to retain moisture but avoid overcooking. If you want to refresh the crispy char, a quick pan crisp after microwaving works wonders.

FAQs

What cut of meat is best for making carne asada tacos?

Flank steak or skirt steak are the classic choices for carne asada because they are flavorful, have good texture, and marinate beautifully. Both are ideal for grilling and get tender when cooked and sliced properly against the grain.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! The marinade can be mixed up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld even better, resulting in an even more intensely flavored carne asada.

How long should I marinate the steak?

While one hour is the minimum, marinating between 4 to 8 hours yields the best flavor and tenderness. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as too much acid can begin to break down the meat excessively.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?

Yes, you can use flour tortillas if preferred, though traditional carne asada tacos are usually made with corn tortillas for their slightly sweet and earthy taste that complements the meat.

What toppings work best with this Carne Asada Tacos Recipe?

Classic toppings like chopped white onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime are essential. Beyond that, salsa, guacamole, cotija cheese, and creamy slaws add wonderful texture and flavor contrast.

Final Thoughts

There is truly nothing like the taste of homemade Carne Asada Tacos Recipe fresh off your grill or skillet. The harmony of tangy marinade, smoky char, and fresh garnishes creates a taco experience that feels both simple and spectacular. I encourage you to try making these tacos soon—you will be rewarded with smiles, satisfied appetites, and possibly a new favorite go-to recipe for any occasion.

Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need