Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features marinated and spice-rubbed flank steak that results in a juicy and flavorful meal. Whether you’re serving it in tacos, burritos, or salads, Carne Asada Steak brings bold flavors to the table at an affordable price. It’s an excellent choice for gatherings with family and friends or a simple weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinade and spice rub create a rich flavor profile that elevates the humble flank steak.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for tacos, burritos, salads, and more, this recipe adapts to your favorite dishes.
• Great for Groups: With enough servings for four people, it’s ideal for entertaining or meal prepping.
• Affordable Delight: Enjoy restaurant-quality Carne Asada without breaking the bank.

Tools and Preparation

To make Carne Asada Steak, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large freezer bag
• Small plastic bag (or sealable container)
• Whisk
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your steak.
• Whisk: Helps mix marinades and spices evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Paper Towels: Useful for patting dry the steak before applying the spice rub, ensuring better searing.

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 Marinade

• 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

For the Spice Mix

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 tsp EACH salt, chili powder, onion powder
• 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 all ingredients listed under Spice Mix and whisk to combine. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Add Marinade Ingredients to a large freezer bag. Whisk to combine. Add 3 tablespoons of the Spice Mix to the Marinade and whisk again. Place the steak in the bag and seal it tightly after removing excess air. Marinate in the refrigerator for 4-12 hours.

Step 3: Create a Spice Rub

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

Step 4: Prepare Steak for Grilling

Discard the marinade from the bag. Pat steaks dry using paper towels—this helps achieve a good sear without washing off too much seasoning. Rub the steak evenly with the prepared Spice Rub. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes.

Step 5: Grill Your Steak

Grease and preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Grill steaks 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. Adjust grilling time based on your preference and thickness of steak.

Step 6: Rest and Slice

Remove steaks from grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing against the grain on a diagonal into thin strips.

Enjoy this delicious Carne Asada Steak as part of your favorite dishes!

How to Serve Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Tacos

• Use warm corn or flour tortillas filled with sliced Carne Asada. Top with pico de gallo and guacamole for a fresh taste.

Burritos

• Wrap the sliced steak with rice, beans, cheese, and salsa in a large tortilla for a hearty meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with melted cheese, sliced Carne Asada, jalapeños, and guacamole for a fun snack or appetizer that’s perfect for game day.

Salads

• Serve thinly sliced Carne Asada on a bed of greens with cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing option.

Sandwiches

• Pile the grilled steak onto crusty bread with toppings like lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo for a robust sandwich that’s great for picnics.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Steak

To achieve the best flavor and tenderness when preparing Carne Asada Steak, consider these essential tips.

• Choose the right cut: Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal choices due to their flavor and tenderness when marinated properly.
• Marinate adequately: Allowing the steak to marinate for 4-12 hours enhances its flavors. Longer marination results in more tender meat.
• Don’t skip resting time: Letting the steak rest after grilling ensures the juices redistribute, keeping it moist when sliced.
• Use high heat on the grill: Cooking on medium-high heat creates the perfect char while sealing in juices that make your carne asada flavorful.
• Slice against the grain: Cutting the meat against the grain shortens muscle fibers, which leads to a more tender bite.
• Experiment with spices: Personalize your spice rub to include your favorite seasonings for an extra kick that complements the beef.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Steak

Pairing side dishes with Carne Asada Steak can enhance your meal by adding contrasting flavors and textures. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Fries: Crispy fries topped with cheese, jalapeños, and cilantro make a perfect match for the savory steak.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and sprinkled with chili powder offers a delightful contrast to the meat.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds freshness and richness that balances well with Carne Asada’s bold flavors.
4. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brightens up each bite of carne asada.
5. Refried Beans: Creamy beans provide protein and complement the rich flavors of the steak perfectly.
6. Elote (Mexican Corn Salad): A salad made from corn mixed with lime juice, cheese, and spices adds zing to your plate.
7. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices creates a hearty side that pairs nicely with carne asada tacos or burritos.
8. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender brings color and health benefits alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Marinating and grilling Carne Asada Steak can be easy, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish’s flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade time: Failing to marinate for at least 4 hours can lead to less flavorful steak. Allowing the meat to sit in the marinade enhances its taste and tenderness.

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Not all cuts are suitable for Carne Asada. Opt for flank or skirt steak, as they are ideal for grilling and have great flavor.

• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to ensure a juicy result.

• Overcooking the steak: Cooking Carne Asada too long can make it tough. Aim for medium-rare (130-135°F) for the best results.

• Ignoring the grain: Slicing against the grain is crucial. This technique ensures each bite is tender; slicing with the grain will make it chewy.

• Lack of seasoning: Under-seasoning your steak can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you use enough spices in both the marinade and rub to enhance taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Carne Asada Steak in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Carne Asada Steak

• Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Carne Asada Steak

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F, place steak in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warmed, being cautious not to overcook.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat; add a little oil and warm slices quickly, turning frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Asada Steak?

Carne Asada Steak is typically marinated flank or skirt steak that is grilled and sliced thinly. It’s popular in Mexican cuisine and often served in tacos or burritos.

Can I use other cuts of meat for Carne Asada?

While flank or skirt steaks are traditional, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just remember that cooking times may vary depending on thickness.

How do I know when my Carne Asada is done?

Use an internal thermometer; aim for 130-135°F for medium-rare. Always check near the thickest part of the meat.

What should I serve with Carne Asada Steak?

Carne Asada pairs well with tortillas, guacamole, pico de gallo, or even atop salads. The options are endless!

Can I marinate Carne Asada overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight will enhance flavor even more. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as this could affect texture.

Final Thoughts

This Carne Asada Steak recipe promises juicy and flavorful results that are perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it in various dishes, from tacos to salads. Feel free to customize your seasonings or toppings based on your preferences! Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try!