Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carne Asada Tacos are a vibrant, flavorful twist on traditional tacos, featuring marinated and grilled beef, topped with fresh garnishes, and wrapped in a soft tortilla. The smoky, charred beef pairs perfectly with tangy lime, fresh cilantro, and a bit of heat from your favorite salsa—making these tacos a crowd favorite that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

ingredients

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

flank steak or skirt steakorangeslime juicelime zestolive oilgarlic clovesonion (chopped)jalapeños (diced)ground cuminchili powderpaprikasaltblack peppercorn tortillasfresh cilantro (for garnish)lime wedges (for serving)

Optional toppings:
salsa or pico de gallo
sour cream
diced avocado
radishes (sliced)

directions

In a bowl or resealable bag, mix orange juice, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped onion, jalapeños, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Add the flank steak or skirt steak to the marinade and coat well. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Warm the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet.

Assemble the tacos by placing slices of carne asada in each tortilla. Top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and any additional toppings such as salsa, avocado, or radishes.

Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 tacos.
Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes (plus marinating time)

Variations

Use grilled chicken or pork instead of beef.
Add grilled onions and peppers for extra flavor.
Use corn tortillas for a more authentic touch.
Make it spicy with extra jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Top with crumbled queso fresco for a creamy, salty finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, then assemble tacos fresh with toppings.
Not ideal for freezing, but the steak can be repurposed in burritos, bowls, or salads.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for carne asada?

Flank or skirt steak are the traditional cuts for carne asada—they’re flavorful and cook quickly.

Can I marinate the meat overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavor, but at least 2 hours is fine for good results.

Can I make this in a pan if I don’t have a grill?

Yes, use a hot skillet or grill pan, cooking the steak for 4–6 minutes per side.

How do I know when the steak is done?

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

Can I make carne asada tacos ahead of time?

You can marinate the meat in advance and cook it when ready to serve. Just assemble the tacos when you’re ready to eat.

How do I keep tortillas from falling apart?

Warm them briefly and avoid overfilling them with meat or toppings.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

Yes, if using corn tortillas and checking the seasoning for gluten-free ingredients.

What toppings go best with carne asada tacos?

Cilantro, lime, salsa, diced onions, avocado, and radishes are all great additions.

Can I use store-bought salsa?

Yes, store-bought salsa works great, but a homemade pico de gallo adds a fresh touch.

Conclusion

Carne Asada Tacos are a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings the best of Mexican street food to your table. With smoky, charred beef, fresh toppings, and a bit of lime, they’re perfect for a casual dinner or special occasion. Whether you’re serving them for Taco Tuesday or a summer barbecue, these tacos will always be a hit.