Carne Asada Tacos

If you’re looking for a recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! These carne asada tacos are a family favorite in my home. They’re bold, juicy, and bursting with flavor thanks to a delicious marinade. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering with friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!

What makes these tacos even better is how easy they are to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy mouthwatering carne asada tacos that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The marinade not only tenderizes the flank steak but also infuses it with amazing flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.
• Quick Prep Time: With only 30 minutes of prep time, these tacos fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love assembling their own tacos with their favorite toppings!
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for taco night, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Satisfying and Wholesome: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, these tacos make a hearty meal that’s good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will make these carne asada tacos shine. You probably have some of these in your kitchen already!

For the Marinade

• 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 Assembling

• 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)

Variations

One of the best things about carne asada tacos is how flexible they are! Feel free to mix it up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or shrimp instead of flank steak for a different twist.
• Add some heat: If you like it spicy, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into your toppings.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a delicious veggie version.
• Experiment with sauces: Instead of traditional toppings, try adding a tangy salsa verde or chipotle mayo for extra flavor.

How to Make Carne Asada Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Begin by making your marinade. In a bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until blended. This step is crucial because the marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal it up (or cover it if using a dish) and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour—ideally overnight. Giving it time to soak up those flavors makes all the difference!

Step 3: Cook the Steak

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and grill it for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Cooking time may vary depending on thickness; use a meat thermometer if needed! Letting it rest afterward allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

Once rested, slice your steak against the grain into thin strips. Warm your corn tortillas on the grill or in a pan until soft. Now comes the fun part! Fill each tortilla with sliced steak and top with pico de gallo and guacamole. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything before serving—trust me; it’s worth it!

With these steps complete, you’re ready to enjoy some amazing carne asada tacos that will surely become a staple in your home!

Pro Tips for Making Carne Asada Tacos

Creating the perfect carne asada tacos is easier than you think! Here are some friendly tips to ensure your tacos are packed with flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the flank steak to marinate for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, enhances the flavor and tenderness, making each bite deliciously juicy.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro, lime juice, and homemade pico de gallo can elevate your tacos significantly. They add vibrant flavors that complement the meat beautifully.

• Preheat Your Grill or Pan: A hot grill or skillet ensures a nice sear on your steak. This not only locks in juices but also adds that delightful charred flavor that makes carne asada so special.

• Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the meat to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.

• Warm Your Tortillas: Warming your tortillas before serving makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor. You can do this on a grill or in a dry skillet for just a few seconds on each side.

How to Serve Carne Asada Tacos

Serving up carne asada tacos is all about presentation and pairing with delicious accompaniments. Let’s dive into some ideas that will make your taco night unforgettable!

Garnishes

• Chopped Onion: Finely diced white onion adds a crunchy texture and sharp flavor that balances out the richness of the carne asada.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over your tacos for an aromatic touch that brightens up every bite.
• Radish Slices: Thinly sliced radishes provide a refreshing crunch and a pop of color, making your tacos visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice offers a sweet and savory contrast to your tacos.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans serve as a hearty side dish that complements your carne asada while adding extra protein.
• Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices enhances the meal’s heartiness and adds an extra layer of flavor alongside the tacos.
• Guacamole Salad: A fresh salad made with avocado, tomatoes, onions, and lime juice provides a creamy yet tangy side that pairs wonderfully with carne asada.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re all set to impress your family or friends with these mouthwatering carne asada tacos! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These carne asada tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal throughout the week without any fuss! Here’s how you can store, freeze, and reheat your tacos to keep their flavor intact.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the cooked flank steak cool completely before storing.
• Place the sliced meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Keep any toppings like pico de gallo or guacamole in separate containers.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled flank steak tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!
• Toppings are best fresh, so avoid freezing them.

Reheating

• Thaw the frozen meat overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making carne asada tacos that might help you out!

How do I make carne asada tacos?

To make carne asada tacos, marinate flank steak in a flavorful mixture of lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill until perfectly cooked and serve with your favorite toppings on corn tortillas.

What toppings go well with carne asada tacos?

Some fantastic toppings for carne asada tacos include pico de gallo, guacamole, diced onions, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Feel free to customize based on your preferences!

Can I use other meats for carne asada tacos?

Absolutely! While flank steak is traditional, you can substitute it with skirt steak or even chicken if desired. Just adjust the marinating time accordingly.

How do I store leftovers from carne asada tacos?

Store leftover meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just be sure to label it with the date!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen and fills your home with delicious aromas! These carne asada tacos are not only savory but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. Enjoy making them for family dinners or casual get-togethers! I would love to hear how they turned out for you—happy cooking!