Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table. This recipe features marinated and spice-rubbed flank steak, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or simply served with sides, this dish is suitable for any occasion—from family gatherings to summer barbecues. The standout qualities of this Carne Asada are its rich flavors and the ease of preparation, making it a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade combines citrus, spices, and a touch of sweetness to create a bold taste.
• Versatile Uses: Ideal for tacos, salads, or served with grilled veggies—endless serving options!
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Crowds: Easily scales up for larger gatherings without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick Cooking Time: Grill in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Carne Asada Steak, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Plastic bags or sealable containers
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat needed for perfect searing and flavor development.
• Whisk: Ensures all marinade ingredients blend thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Meat thermometer: Helps achieve perfect doneness without guesswork.

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 Steak

• 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
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 tsp EACH salt, chili pwdr, onion pwdr
• 1/2 tsp EACH pepper, cayenne pepper

For Garnish

• Your favorite cheese (I like cheddar/cotija combo)
• Recipe 5 Minute Blender Tomatillo Avocado Ranch
• Recipe 5 Minute Fire Roasted Restaurant Blender Salsa
• Pico de gallo
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Recipe Grilled Pineapple Salsa
• Recipe Mexican Street Fries

How to Make Carne Asada Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

To a small plastic bag (or sealable container), add Spice Mix ingredients and whisk to combine. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Add Marinade Ingredients to a large freezer bag and whisk to combine. Add 3 tablespoons of the Spice Mix to the marinade and whisk again. Add steak to the bag and seal it tightly while removing excess air. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or up to 12 hours.

Step 3: Create a Spice Rub

When ready to grill, mix remaining Spice Mix with 2 tablespoons olive oil in a bowl to create a Spice Rub.

Step 4: Prepare the Steak

Discard the marinade from the steak and pat it dry with paper towels—this ensures even cooking. Rub the steak evenly with the Spice Rub and let it rest at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes.

Step 5: Preheat and Grill

Grease and preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill the steak for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until an internal thermometer reads between 130-135 degrees F for medium rare or around 140 degrees F for medium. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary based on thickness.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove steak from grill and let it rest for approximately 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain on a diagonal. Enjoy your perfectly grilled Carne Asada Steak!

How to Serve Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is versatile and can elevate many meals. Whether you serve it in tacos or over a fresh salad, the flavors always shine through. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your Carne Asada.

Tacos

• Soft Corn Tortillas: Fill warm tortillas with sliced Carne Asada, topped with onions, cilantro, and fresh salsa.
• Crunchy Taco Shells: Dress crispy shells with Carne Asada and your choice of toppings like cheese, lettuce, and sour cream.

Burritos

• Flour Tortillas: Wrap Carne Asada with rice, beans, cheese, and guacamole for a hearty meal.
• Breakfast Burrito: Combine scrambled eggs with Carne Asada for a protein-packed breakfast option.

Nachos

• Loaded Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with melted cheese, jalapeños, and pieces of Carne Asada for a crowd-pleasing snack.
• Guacamole & Salsa: Serve nachos with sides of guacamole and salsa for dipping.

Salads

• Steak Salad: Top mixed greens with slices of Carne Asada, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and your favorite dressing.
• Mexican Caesar Salad: Use Carne Asada as the main protein in a twist on the classic Caesar salad.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Steak

To ensure your Carne Asada Steak is juicy and flavorful, follow these tips for perfection.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select flank or skirt steak for the best texture and flavor when grilled.
• Marinate Properly: Let the steak marinate for at least 4 hours to enhance its flavor; overnight is even better.
• Don’t Overcook: Aim for medium-rare (130-135°F) to keep the meat tender; check frequently with a thermometer.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allow the steak to rest after grilling for 10 minutes; this helps retain juices when cut.
• Slice Against the Grain: Cut against the grain to ensure each bite is tender; this makes a big difference in texture.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and ingredients in your marinade will elevate the overall taste of your Carne Asada.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Steak

Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada can enhance the meal’s experience. Consider these delicious options that complement the flavors perfectly.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, lime juice, and chili powder.
2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and a rich flavor that pairs well with steak.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with lime juice and cilantro adds brightness to your plate.
4. Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa make an excellent starter or side dish.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini charred on the grill add color and flavor.
6. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances any dish while adding healthy fats and richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling Carne Asada Steak can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Always choose flank steak or skirt steak for the best flavor and tenderness. Other cuts may not yield the same results.
• Marinating for too short or too long: Marinate between 4 to 12 hours. Less time won’t infuse enough flavor, while too long can break down the meat excessively.
• Not letting the steak rest: Allowing your grilled carne asada to rest for at least 10 minutes is crucial. This helps retain juices, making it more tender.
• Overcooking the steak: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Aim for 130-135°F for medium rare and avoid cooking beyond medium to prevent toughness.
• Skipping the spice rub: The spice rub adds an extra layer of flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your carne asada.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Carne Asada Steak in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Carne Asada Steak

• Wrap the steak tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Carne Asada Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F. Place the steak on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice the steak into smaller pieces and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (20-30 seconds) until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced steak and cover with a lid, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Asada Steak?

Carne Asada Steak is marinated beef, typically flank or skirt steak, grilled to perfection. It’s a popular dish in Mexican cuisine known for its robust flavor.

How do I make my Carne Asada Steak more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, ensure you marinate your steak with spices and citrus juices. Experiment with different marinades based on your taste preferences.

Can I use a different cut of meat for Carne Asada?

While flank and skirt steaks are traditional, you can also use flap meat or sirloin if desired. Just remember that cooking times might vary based on thickness.

How do I serve Carne Asada Steak?

Carne Asada is versatile! Serve it in tacos, burritos, or salads, or alongside sides like rice and beans. Don’t forget toppings like pico de gallo or guacamole!

Can I grill Carne Asada indoors?

Yes! You can use a stovetop grill pan if you don’t have outdoor grilling options. Just ensure good ventilation when cooking indoors.

Final Thoughts

This Carne Asada Steak recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, it pairs well with various sides and toppings. Feel free to customize by adding different spices or marinades based on your preferences!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Carne Asada Steak

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Carne Asada Steak is a flavorful Mexican dish that’s perfect for any gathering. This recipe highlights marinated flank steak that is grilled to juicy perfection, making it ideal for tacos, burritos, or served alongside your favorite sides. With its combination of citrus and spices, this dish delivers incredible taste while being easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, Carne Asada Steak is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Instructions

1. In a small bag or container, combine spice mix ingredients and set aside.
2. Whisk together marinade ingredients in a large freezer bag and add the spice mix. Seal the bag with the steak inside and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (up to 12).
3. Before grilling, create a spice rub by mixing remaining spice mix with olive oil.
4. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry. Rub with spice mixture and let rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill steak for about 5-6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium rare.
6. Let the steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 4 ounces (113g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg