Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is the perfect dish for any gathering, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration. This marinated and spice-rubbed steak promises to deliver the most juicy, tender, and flavorful experience. Ideal for tacos, burritos, nachos, and salads, it’s an affordable way to impress your guests with its amazing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade infuses the meat with a delightful combination of citrus and spices, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for tacos, burritos, or served alongside grilled vegetables; this Carne Asada recipe fits seamlessly into any meal.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, this recipe makes it easy to prepare restaurant-quality Carne Asada at home.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for gatherings, this recipe serves four generously, making it a fantastic choice for parties or family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before we dive into the delicious recipe of Carne Asada Steak, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Plastic bags or sealable containers
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on your Carne Asada while maintaining juiciness.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining marinades and spices without creating a mess.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures you cook the steak to your desired level of 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 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon 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 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 until combined. Add 3 tablespoons of Spice Mix to Marinade and mix well. Place the flank steak in the bag and seal it after removing excess air. Marinate in the refrigerator for 4-12 hours.

Step 3: Create Spice Rub

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

Step 4: Prepare the Steak

Discard marinade from the bag. Pat steaks dry with paper towels—this step is important to ensure even cooking. Rub steak evenly all over with Spice Rub and let it rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.

Step 5: Grill Your Steak

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

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes before thinly slicing against the grain on a diagonal. Serve immediately with your favorite garnishes!

How to Serve Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a cozy dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Tacos

• Use warm corn or flour tortillas for a classic taco experience. Fill them with thinly sliced Carne Asada, topped with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Burritos

• Wrap the Carne Asada with rice, beans, cheese, and your favorite salsa in a large tortilla. Roll it up for a hearty burrito that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with Carne Asada, melted cheese, and toppings like jalapeños, guacamole, and sour cream. Bake until golden for a tasty appetizer.

Salads

• Slice the grilled Carne Asada over a bed of fresh greens. Add tomatoes, avocados, and your favorite dressing for a refreshing salad that’s both healthy and filling.

Quesadillas

• Stuff tortillas with shredded cheese and slices of Carne Asada. Grill until crispy for cheesy quesadillas that are great as snacks or light meals.

Sandwiches

• Make a delicious sandwich by layering Carne Asada on toasted bread with avocado, lettuce, and chipotle mayo. This option is perfect for picnics or casual lunches.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Steak

Achieving the perfect Carne Asada Steak involves a few key steps to ensure tenderness and flavor. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Choose the right cut: Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal choices for Carne Asada due to their flavor and texture.

• Marinate properly: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 4 hours but preferably overnight. This enhances the flavor significantly.

• Preheat your grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the steak on it. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and seals in juices.

• Let it rest: After grilling, let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.

• Slice against the grain: Cutting the steak against the grain helps ensure tenderness in each bite.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices in your marinade or rub based on personal taste preferences for added flair.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Steak

Pairing side dishes with Carne Asada Steak can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in crema, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice makes an incredible accompaniment.

2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans served warm add richness to balance out the grilled flavors of Carne Asada.

3. Rice: A side of cilantro-lime rice provides freshness and pairs beautifully with seasoned meats.

4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini grilled alongside give a colorful and nutritious touch.

5. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a hit when served with chips or as a topping on tacos.

6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice brightens up any dish with its zesty flavor.

7. Chips & Salsa: A classic starter that never disappoints; serve crispy tortilla chips with homemade salsa for dipping.

8. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Getting the perfect Carne Asada Steak takes practice, and avoiding common mistakes can help ensure delicious results every time.

• Using thick steaks – Thicker cuts can lead to uneven cooking. Opt for flank or skirt steak, and pound it thin for best results.
• Skipping the marinade – Not marinating the meat can result in less flavor. Allow at least 4 hours of marinating time for a juicy, flavorful steak.
• Not letting the steak rest – Cutting into the steak right after grilling can cause juices to escape. Always let your Carne Asada rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
• Grilling at low heat – Cooking on low heat may not give you that nice char. Aim for medium-high heat to achieve a great sear and flavor.
• Ignoring resting time – Slicing immediately after cooking can dry out your steak. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Use parchment paper between layers if stacking slices to prevent sticking.

Freezing Carne Asada Steak

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for optimal freshness.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date.

Reheating Carne Asada Steak

• Oven – Preheat to 250°F (120°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on low power in short bursts of 30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Asada Steak?

Carne Asada Steak refers to grilled beef, typically flank or skirt steak, marinated and seasoned with spices. It’s often used in tacos, burritos, and more.

How long should I marinate Carne Asada Steak?

For best results, marinate your Carne Asada Steak for at least 4 hours but no more than 12 hours. This allows flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Can I make Carne Asada Steak ahead of time?

Yes! You can grill it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just follow proper storage instructions for best results.

What are some great sides for Carne Asada Steak?

You can serve Carne Asada Steak with rice, beans, grilled vegetables, or fresh salsa. It also pairs well with traditional Mexican sides like street fries or guacamole.

Can I use other cuts of meat for Carne Asada?

While flank and skirt steak are traditional choices, you can experiment with cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.

Final Thoughts

This Carne Asada Steak recipe is not only flavorful but incredibly versatile! Perfect for tacos, salads, or just as a main dish—its rich taste will impress any crowd. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or side dishes. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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: Lucille
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x

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Description

Carne Asada Steak is a mouthwatering dish that brings vibrant flavors and excitement to any gathering, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration. This marinated flank steak is infused with zesty citrus and aromatic spices, resulting in a juicy, tender cut that can serve as the star of tacos, burritos, salads, and more. Impress your guests without breaking the bank—this affordable recipe is sure to delight with every bite. Easy to prepare and versatile in presentation, Carne Asada Steak will elevate your culinary repertoire effortlessly.

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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. Prepare the spice mix by whisking together selected spices in a plastic bag or container.
2. Combine marinade ingredients in a large freezer bag; add spice mix and marinate flank steak for 4-12 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Create spice rub with remaining mix and olive oil before grilling.
4. Pat steak dry, rub with spice mixture, and let rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat; cook steak for about 5-6 minutes per side until desired doneness (130-135°F for medium rare).
6. Allow steak to rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 80mg