Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada Steak is a deliciously marinated and spice-rubbed dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your grill. This recipe promises juicy, tender meat that is perfect for tacos, burritos, nachos, or salads. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a family dinner, Carne Asada Steak stands out with its rich flavors and versatility. Get ready to impress your guests without breaking the bank!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The marinade combines citrus and spices for a mouthwatering experience.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can sit back while the steak marinates.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy this steak in tacos, salads, or as a main dish; the options are endless!
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe feeds four and is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
• Budget-Friendly: Make restaurant-quality Carne Asada at home for a fraction of the price.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Carne Asada Steak, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen arsenal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large freezer bag
• Small plastic bag or sealable container
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill ensures even cooking and adds that irresistible charred flavor.
• Large freezer bag: Ideal for marinating the steak evenly while keeping it contained.

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

For the Marinade

• 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 Seasoning

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

For Serving

• our favorite cheese (I like cheddar/cotija combo)
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• pico de gallo
• sour cream
• Guacamole
• lettuce
• tomato
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• 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 to combine. Add 3 tablespoons of Spice Mix to Marinade and whisk well. Place flank steak in the bag and seal it tightly 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 Grill

Discard marinade and pat steaks dry with a paper towel. Rub steak evenly all over with Spice Rub. Let rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes.

Step 5: Grill the Steak

Grease and preheat outdoor grill 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 times may vary based on thickness.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove steak from grill and let it rest for about 10 minutes before thinly slicing against the grain on a diagonal.

Now you have perfectly grilled Carne Asada Steak ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Carne Asada Steak

Carne Asada steak is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Tacos

• Soft or hard shell tacos filled with sliced Carne Asada, topped with pico de gallo, guacamole, and cheese for a burst of flavor.

Burritos

• Wrap Carne Asada in a large tortilla with rice, beans, cheese, and your favorite salsas for a hearty meal.

Nachos

• Layer tortilla chips with shredded Carne Asada, melted cheese, jalapeños, and drizzles of sour cream for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Salads

• Top mixed greens with sliced Carne Asada, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing meal.

Sandwiches

• Create a Carne Asada sandwich using crusty bread, avocado slices, and spicy mayo for an exciting twist on lunch.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Steak

To achieve the best flavor and tenderness when making Carne Asada steak, consider these helpful tips.

• Use flank steak: Flank steak is ideal for marinating and grilling due to its lean texture and rich flavor.

• Marinate properly: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 4 hours but no longer than 12 hours to enhance flavor without breaking down the meat too much.

• Rest before slicing: After grilling, let the steak rest for 10 minutes to retain its juices before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.

• High heat grilling: Use medium-high heat on your grill to get that perfect sear while keeping the inside juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Steak

Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada steak can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside this flavorful dish.

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo and sprinkled with cotija cheese and chili powder.

2. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices that complements the flavors of Carne Asada perfectly.

3. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide a hearty side that’s packed with protein.

4. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip made with lime juice and cilantro enhances the richness of the steak.

5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and crunch that balances the richness of the meat.

6. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender makes a colorful addition to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Carne Asada Steak can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Skipping the marination time: Marinating for less than 4 hours can lead to less flavor. Aim for at least 4 hours, or even overnight for best results.
• Using too high heat initially: Starting with high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium-high heat allows for a better cook on thicker cuts.
• Not resting the steak: Cutting into the steak right after grilling can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to retain juiciness.
• Overcooking the meat: Cooking beyond medium can result in tough steak. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 130-135 degrees F for medium rare.
• Ignoring the grain of the meat: Slicing against the grain ensures tenderness. Always check the direction of the grain before cutting.
• Neglecting to use a spice rub: Skipping the spice rub can mean missing out on added flavor. Take the time to season your Carne Asada well.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure Carne Asada is completely cooled before sealing it.

Freezing Carne Asada Steak

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Carne Asada Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in bursts of 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of oil if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best cut of meat for Carne Asada Steak?

Choosing flank steak or skirt steak is ideal because they are both flavorful and tender when cooked properly.

Can I use a marinade without soy sauce for my Carne Asada Steak?

Yes, you can substitute with coconut aminos or other non-soy alternatives if you’re looking for gluten-free options.

How long should I marinate Carne Asada Steak?

Marinating for at least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight yields even better flavor!

What toppings should I use with Carne Asada Steak?

Popular toppings include pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, and grilled pineapple salsa.

Can I grill Carne Asada Steak on a stovetop?

Absolutely! You can achieve great results using a cast-iron skillet on your stovetop if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

Final Thoughts

This Carne Asada Steak recipe is not just delicious; it’s versatile enough for tacos, burritos, or salads. The blend of spices and marinade brings out rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or sides! Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends!

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: Aileen
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the bold flavors of Carne Asada Steak, a classic Mexican dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering. This recipe features tender flank steak marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices and spices, promising mouthwatering results every time. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a few hours of marination, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve in no time. Elevate your tacos, burritos, or salads with this versatile steak, perfect for family dinners or festive celebrations. Plus, it’s budget-friendly—bringing restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen without breaking the bank.

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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 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 bowl or bag, mix together spice rub ingredients.
2. In a large freezer bag, combine marinade ingredients and add spice mix. Seal with the steak inside and marinate in the fridge for 4-12 hours.
3. Before grilling, create a spice rub by mixing remaining spices with olive oil.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and remove the steak from the marinade.
5. Grill each side for about 5-6 minutes until desired doneness is reached (130-135°F for medium rare).
6. Let steak rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 321
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 110mg