A taqueria classic, Grilled Carne Asada Tacos takes the humble flank steak to a whole new level of greatness. This dish features a bold marinade that flavors, moisturizes, and tenderizes the meat for a recipe that will become one of your summer favorites. Perfect for gatherings or casual meals, these tacos are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The marinade infuses the steak with a delicious mix of spices and citrus, creating a mouthwatering experience.
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner ready in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Customize your tacos with various toppings like avocado, radishes, or pico de gallo to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a summer cookout, these tacos fit right in.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the juicy steak nestled in warm tortillas.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these essential tools. These items will help you easily prepare and grill your delicious tacos.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Gallon-sized sealable plastic bag
- Meat thermometer
- Grill pan (for vegetables)
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A good grill is essential for achieving the perfect sear on your carne asada.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures you cook the steak to the ideal temperature for tenderness.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the meat properly across the grain.
Ingredients
For this flavorful dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Steak
- 1 1/2 pounds flank or skirt steak
- Olive oil
- Salt and fresh ground pepper
Marinade Ingredients
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 limes (juiced (about 2 Tbsp))
- 2 Tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons sugar (or processed granulated sugar)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves garlic pressed through a garlic press, or fine minced)
- 1 teaspoon New Mexico Red Chile Powder (or Ancho)
- 1 teaspoon Mexican Oregano
Serve With
- Avocado (sliced or chopped)
- Lime wedges
- Corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
- Radishes (thin sliced)
- Pico de gallo salsa
How to Make Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
- Place the flank steak in a gallon-sized sealable plastic bag.
- Add all of the marinade ingredients.
- Seal the bag, pressing out the air, then squish and turn it in all directions to mix well.
- Refrigerate overnight and throughout the next day. Repeat squishing every time you open the fridge.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
- Preheat your gas grill by turning it up to 550°F.
- Once hot, reduce the heat to 400°F.
Step 3: Prepare to Grill
- Remove steak from marinade and pour marinade into a small bowl for basting.
- Turn off the middle burner on your grill and place steak over direct heat.
Step 4: Grill Vegetables
- Use a grill pan to grill any desired vegetables such as jalapeno peppers or knob onions alongside the steak.
Step 5: Cook the Steak
- Grill for about 6 minutes while basting with marinade every 2 minutes until well-seared before turning.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
- Move steak to middle of grill and continue basting and searing for an additional 3–4 minutes.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read between 120°F – 125°F.
Step 7: Resting Phase
- Remove steak from grill and place it on a cutting board tented with foil.
- Let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
- Slice flank steak across the grain as thinly as possible.
- Serve with grilled jalapenos, warmed tortillas, avocados, pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, grilled onions, or lime wedges.
With this easy-to-follow recipe for Grilled Carne Asada Tacos, you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy this vibrant meal at your next gathering!
How to Serve Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
Grilled Carne Asada Tacos are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your taco experience.
Fresh Avocado
- Slice or chop ripe avocados to add a creamy texture and rich flavor to your tacos.
Lime Wedges
- Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze that enhances the flavors of the grilled steak.
Warm Tortillas
- Use corn or flour tortillas warmed on the grill or stovetop to create a soft, pliable base for your tacos.
Sliced Radishes
- Thinly sliced radishes provide a crunchy contrast and a peppery bite that complements the savory meat.
Pico de Gallo Salsa
- This fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños adds brightness and freshness to every bite.
How to Perfect Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
Perfecting your Grilled Carne Asada Tacos involves attention to detail and some tried-and-true tips. Follow these suggestions for amazing results every time.
Marinate Overnight: Allowing the flank steak to marinate overnight ensures maximum flavor penetration and tenderness.
Use High Heat: Preheat your grill to high temperatures for a great sear that locks in juices and enhances flavor.
Baste Frequently: Basting with the marinade while grilling adds moisture and boosts flavor throughout the cooking process.
Let It Rest: After grilling, let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes. This helps retain juices for tender slices.
Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak against the grain makes each bite more tender and easier to chew.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Carne Asada Tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of the tacos well.
Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with spices is a classic side that balances out the richness of the tacos.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and fiber, making for a satisfying pairing with your tacos.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brushed with lime and chili powder brings sweetness and smokiness to the table.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This refreshing rice dish adds brightness, thanks to lime juice and fresh cilantro mixed in.
Chips with Salsa Verde: Crisp tortilla chips served with tangy salsa verde make an excellent appetizer before diving into your tacos.
Coleslaw: A light coleslaw made with cabbage and a citrus dressing offers crunch and cuts through the richness of grilled meat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Grilled Carne Asada Tacos, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Bold Marinade Mistake: Skipping the marinade time can lead to tough meat. Make sure to marinate the steak overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Bold Grill Temperature Error: Cooking at the wrong temperature can ruin your steak. Preheat the grill to 550°F, then reduce it to 400°F before placing the steak on it.
- Bold Cutting Technique Issue: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tender bites. Always cut across the grain of the meat to ensure each slice is easy to chew.
- Bold Overcooking Concern: Overcooked steak will be dry. Use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 120-125°F for perfect doneness.
- Bold Ignoring Resting Time: Not letting the steak rest can result in lost juices. Tent with foil and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Grilled Carne Asada Tacos in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
- Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap tacos in foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm tacos for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have more questions about Grilled Carne Asada Tacos, this section addresses some common inquiries.
What is the best cut of meat for Grilled Carne Asada Tacos?
Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal choices due to their flavor and tenderness when properly cooked and sliced.
How can I customize my Grilled Carne Asada Tacos?
You can add toppings like grilled vegetables, different salsas, or fresh herbs like cilantro to personalize your tacos.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes! You can substitute flank steak with chicken breast or thighs marinated similarly for a lighter version.
How spicy are Grilled Carne Asada Tacos?
The spice level depends on your choice of red chile powder. You can adjust it according to your preference by using milder or hotter varieties.
How do I make my own pico de gallo salsa?
Combine diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper for a fresh pico de gallo that pairs perfectly with your tacos.
Final Thoughts
Grilled Carne Asada Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. With endless customization options—from toppings to tortillas—this recipe invites creativity. Try making them this summer and enjoy a flavorful taco experience that everyone will love!
Grilled Carne Asada Tacos
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Grilled Carne Asada Tacos, a dish that elevates simple flank steak into a culinary delight. This recipe features a bold marinade that tenderizes and infuses the meat with zesty spices and citrus notes, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. With just 15 minutes of preparation, you can impress your family and friends with these easy-to-make tacos. Customize them with fresh toppings like sliced avocado, crisp radishes, and zesty pico de gallo to suit everyone’s taste preferences.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people (8 tacos) 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds flank or skirt steak
- Olive oil
- Salt and fresh ground pepper
- 1/3 cup olive oil (for marinade)
- 2 limes (juiced)
- 2 Tablespoons cider vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon New Mexico Red Chile Powder
- 1 teaspoon Mexican Oregano
- Avocado (sliced or chopped)
- Lime wedges
- Corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
- Radishes (thin sliced)
- Pico de gallo salsa
Instructions
- Marinate the steak overnight in a mix of marinade ingredients.
- Preheat your grill to 550°F and then reduce to 400°F.
- Grill the steak for about 6 minutes on each side while basting with marinade.
- Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Serve in warmed tortillas with your choice of toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg