Carne Asada Tacos

Name: Carne Asada Tacos
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds flank steak; Juice of 2 limes; Juice of 1 orange; ¼ cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup finely chopped cilantro; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 12 corn tortillas (or 24 tortillas if stacking 2 tortillas per taco); Pico de gallo (homemade or store-bought); Guacamole (homemade or store-bought); Lime wedges (for serving)

Published: January 26, 2026

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Flavor: The marinade infuses the flank steak with zesty notes from lime and orange juice, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
Easy to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, these tacos come together quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Toppings: Customize each taco with your choice of toppings, allowing everyone to enjoy their perfect flavor combination.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration, these carne asada tacos fit right in.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe provides a nutritious option without compromising on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make delicious carne asada tacos, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Grill or grill pan: This is crucial for achieving that authentic charred flavor in the meat.
Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all the marinade ingredients easily, ensuring they blend well before coating the steak.
Knife: A sharp knife simplifies the process of slicing the cooked steak thinly for serving.
Tongs: These are essential for flipping and transferring the meat safely without losing juices.

Ingredients

For the Meat

2 pounds flank steak (excess fat trimmed)
Juice of 2 limes
Juice of 1 orange
¼ cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 ½ teaspoons Kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For Assembly

12 corn tortillas (or 24 tortillas if stacking 2 tortillas per taco)
Pico de gallo (homemade or store-bought)
Guacamole (homemade or store-bought)
Lime wedges (for serving)

How to Make Carne Asada Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Flank Steak

In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak and seal it or cover it.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best) to let the flavors develop.

Step 2: Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Remove the steak from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
Grill the flank steak for about 5–7 minutes on each side until it reaches your desired doneness (medium rare is recommended).
Once done, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes.

Step 3: Slice and Assemble

Thinly slice the rested flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Warm up your corn tortillas on the grill or in a skillet until pliable.
Assemble your tacos by placing slices of flank steak onto each tortilla.
Top with pico de gallo and guacamole as desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy these delicious carne asada tacos at your next meal!

How to Serve Carne Asada Tacos

Carne asada tacos are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. You can customize each taco to cater to your taste preferences, making every bite a unique experience.

Fresh Toppings

Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a burst of flavor.
Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime and spices pairs perfectly with the seasoned meat.
Shredded lettuce: Adds a crisp texture that complements the juicy carne asada.

Salsas

Salsa verde: This green salsa made from tomatillos offers a zesty kick to your tacos.
Red salsa: A classic choice, this spicy salsa enhances the flavors of the beef.

Accompaniments

Lime wedges: Squeeze fresh lime juice over your tacos for an extra tangy flavor.
Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes add a crunchy bite and beautiful color to your dish.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Tacos

Perfecting carne asada tacos involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to elevate your taco game.

Marinate Overnight: Letting the flank steak marinate overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness of the meat.
Use High Heat: Cooking at high heat ensures a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Rest the Meat: Allow the cooked steak to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices for a flavorful bite.
Warm Tortillas: Gently heat tortillas on a skillet or grill for better pliability and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Tacos

Pairing delicious side dishes with carne asada tacos enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a satisfying side that complements any taco.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness, balancing out the meal nicely.
Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing adds sweetness and crunch.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, onions, and zucchini bring additional color and nutrients to your plate.
Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad mixes black beans with diced vegetables for added fiber and flavor.
Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with your favorite salsa offer a fun starter or snack before diving into your tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making carne asada tacos can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Bold flavorless meat: Skipping the marinade will result in bland tacos. Always marinate your steak for at least an hour, or even overnight, for maximum flavor.
Bold using the wrong cut of meat: Not all beef cuts are suitable. Flank steak is ideal for carne asada tacos due to its tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts or those with excessive fat.
Bold overheating the tortillas: If you overheat your tortillas, they can become dry and break easily. Warm them just until pliable, either on a skillet or wrapped in foil in the oven.
Bold neglecting toppings: Toppings can elevate your tacos! Don’t skip on pico de gallo, guacamole, or lime wedges, as they add essential freshness and flavor.
Bold underestimating resting time: Cutting into the meat right after cooking can cause juices to run out. Let the steak rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover carne asada tacos in an airtight container.
They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Separate any toppings to maintain freshness.

Freezing Carne Asada Tacos

Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Carne Asada Tacos

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped tacos for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about carne asada tacos:

What is the best cut of meat for Carne Asada Tacos?

Flank steak is the best cut due to its tenderness and ability to absorb marinades well, making it perfect for these flavorful tacos.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast or thighs marinated similarly for a lighter version of carne asada tacos.

How do I make my Carne Asada Tacos spicy?

Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your pico de gallo or guacamole for extra heat!

Can I prepare Carne Asada Tacos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the meat a day ahead and store toppings separately until ready to serve.

What should I serve with Carne Asada Tacos?

Consider serving with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that enhances your taco experience.

Final Thoughts

These carne asada tacos are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and sides according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe out and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!