Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak marinated and spice rubbed for the most juicy, tender, flavorful Carne Asada EVER! This dish is ideal for tacos, burritos, nachos, and salads. Perfect for gatherings, it brings bold flavors to any occasion without breaking the bank.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The marinade infuses the steak with a rich combination of spices, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this Carne Asada in a variety of dishes—tacos, salads, or on its own!
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
• Perfect for Crowds: This recipe serves four generously but can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings.
• Quick Cooking Time: From prep to plate in just 35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Carne Asada Steak, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure a seamless cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill allows for perfect searing and charred flavor that enhances the Carne Asada experience.
• Large freezer bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly without mess.
• Whisk: Essential for properly mixing marinade ingredients and spice mixes to maximize flavor infusion.

Ingredients

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 powder, onion powder
• 1/2 tsp EACH pepper, cayenne pepper

For Serving

• Our 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

1. To a small plastic bag (or sealable container), add the Spice Mix ingredients and whisk them together. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

1. In a large freezer bag, combine all Marinade Ingredients using a whisk.
2. Add 3 tablespoons of Spice Mix to the Marinade and mix well.
3. Place your flank steak into the bag and seal it tightly after removing excess air.
4. Marinate in the refrigerator for 4 to 12 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Create the Spice Rub

1. When you’re ready to cook, mix the remaining Spice Mix with 2 tablespoons of olive oil until you form a paste-like consistency.

Step 4: Prepare the Steak for Grilling

1. Discard the marinade from the steak and pat it dry with paper towels—this helps achieve a nice sear.
2. Rub your prepared Spice Rub evenly over both sides of the steak.
3. Allow it to rest at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before grilling.

Step 5: Grill the Steak

1. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill each side of the steak for about 5–6 minutes or until an internal thermometer reads between 130–135 degrees F for medium rare or around 140 degrees for medium.
3. Keep in mind that grill times may vary based on thickness.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Once grilled to perfection, remove your Carne Asada from the grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
2. Thinly slice against the grain on a diagonal before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Carne Asada Steak!

How to Serve Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a family dinner, here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.

Tacos

• Use warm corn or flour tortillas and fill them with sliced Carne Asada. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime for added flavor.

Burritos

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

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with slices of Carne Asada, melted cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings like guacamole and sour cream for an unbeatable snack.

Salads

• Toss grilled Carne Asada on top of mixed greens with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette for a light yet flavorful salad option.

Quesadillas

• Fill tortillas with shredded Carne Asada and cheese before grilling them until golden brown. Cut into wedges and serve with salsa for dipping.

Street Tacos

• Serve Carne Asada in smaller tortillas topped with diced onions, cilantro, and a drizzle of lime juice for an authentic street food experience.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Steak

To ensure your Carne Asada Steak is juicy and full of flavor, follow these tips. They will help you master this delicious dish every time you cook it.

• Marinate well: For the best flavor, marinate your steak for at least 4 hours but no more than 12 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.

• Use high heat: Cooking at high heat helps achieve that beautiful char on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

• Let it rest: After grilling, allow the steak to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps retain juices when you slice it.

• Slice against the grain: Cutting against the grain ensures each bite is tender. Look closely at the muscle fibers and cut perpendicularly to them.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices in your marinade or rub according to your taste preferences. Different spices can add unique flavors to your Carne Asada.

• Choose the right cut: Flank steak is traditional, but you can also use skirt steak or flap meat for equally delicious results.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Steak

Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada Steak can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) – Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice for a rich flavor.

2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans seasoned with spices make a perfect accompaniment that complements the savory flavors of Carne Asada.

3. Spanish Rice – Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices adds substance to your meal without overshadowing the main dish.

4. Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip brings freshness and richness that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

5. Pico de Gallo – A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños that adds brightness to each bite.

6. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender provides a healthy balance alongside your hearty steak.

7. Chips & Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with zesty salsa offer a great starter or snack option before enjoying the main course.

8. Cilantro Lime Rice – Lightly flavored rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice adds a refreshing touch to your meal while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Carne Asada Steak, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish’s flavor.

• Using a thick cut of steak – A thick cut will not marinate properly and may not cook evenly. Always opt for flank or skirt steak, which are best for this recipe.
• Skipping the marinating time – Marinating for at least 4 hours is crucial for flavor absorption. Plan ahead to let your meat soak in the delicious marinade.
• Not resting the meat – Cutting into your steak right after cooking releases juices. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Overcooking the steak – Cooking beyond medium can lead to tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and remove it from heat at 130-135 degrees F for medium-rare.
• Ignoring spices – The spice rub is essential for flavor. Ensure you apply it thoroughly and allow the steak to sit at room temperature before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Carne Asada Steak in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Carne Asada Steak

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Carne Asada Steak

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and place steak on a baking sheet, covering with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, reheating for several minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of steak is best for Carne Asada?

Flank steak and skirt steak are commonly used due to their tenderness and flavor after marination.

How long should I marinate Carne Asada Steak?

Marinate for at least 4 hours but ideally up to 12 hours for maximum flavor absorption.

Can I grill Carne Asada Steak indoors?

Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or any indoor grilling appliance if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.

What dishes can I make with Carne Asada Steak?

Carne Asada is versatile; serve it in tacos, burritos, salads, or even as a standalone dish with sides like rice or beans.

How do I ensure my Carne Asada Steak stays juicy?

Always let your steak rest after cooking and avoid overcooking by checking internal temperatures with a meat thermometer.

Final Thoughts

This Carne Asada Steak recipe offers incredible flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to create delightful tacos, burritos, or salads that everyone will love. Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite spices or add toppings like guacamole and pico de gallo!