This Easy Mexican Carne Asada is a simple, tasty dish packed with flavor! Using juicy beef, garlic, and lime juice, it’s perfect for grilling up a feast.
Who could resist the smell of grilled meat wafting through the air? I love to serve it with some warm tortillas and fresh salsa—it’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
Making this recipe is a breeze! Just marinate the beef, fire up the grill, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time. Perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank or Skirt Steak: Both cuts are great options for carne asada. They are flavorful and tender when cooked correctly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, top sirloin works as well.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the marinade’s flavor beautifully. You can use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh garlic is preferred for its stronger taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, though it won’t have the same distinct taste.
Juices: Lime and orange juice make the marinade bright and tangy. If you’re out of oranges, try replacing it with lemon juice for a similar effect.
Spices: The blend of cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika provides warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust these spices to match your spice preference; cayenne can replace red pepper flakes for more heat.
How Do I Get Tender and Juicy Carne Asada?
To get the best results, marinating your steak is key. The marinade not only flavors the meat but also tenderizes it. Here’s how to nail that marination:
- **Time is important**: Marinate for at least 1 hour, but letting it sit for 2-4 hours, or overnight, really frees up those flavors.
- **Remove excess marinade**: Before grilling, let the extra marinade drip off. This helps prevent flare-ups on the grill.
- **Grilling tips**: Preheat your grill to high heat for that nice sear. Grill for 3-5 minutes per side to keep the meat juicy.
- **Resting is crucial**: Let the steak rest after cooking for about 5-10 minutes. This keeps the juices inside when you cut it.
Following these steps will help you achieve delicious, tender carne asada that everyone will love!
Easy Mexican Carne Asada Recipe for Grilling
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Tortillas, for serving
- Fresh lime wedges, for garnish
- Chopped onions and cilantro, for garnish
- Salsa or pico de gallo, optional
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the steak (or up to overnight for more flavor) and about 10 minutes for grilling. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). This marinade is packed with flavor and will really tenderize the meat!
2. Marinate the Steak:
Take your flank or skirt steak and place it in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the flavorful marinade over the steak, making sure it’s fully covered. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally 2 to 4 hours, or even overnight if you have the time!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to high heat. Getting it nice and hot is important for achieving that perfect sear on your steak!
4. Prepare the Steak for Grilling:
Take the steak out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to avoid contamination.
5. Grill the Steak:
Place the steak on the hot grill and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness of your steak and your desired doneness. Keep an eye on it—overcooking can lead to dry meat!
6. Let It Rest:
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside, making for a more flavorful bite!
7. Slice and Serve:
Using a sharp knife, slice the steak thinly against the grain. This will make it more tender and enjoyable to eat!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious carne asada with warm tortillas. Garnish with chopped onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite salsa or pico de gallo. Enjoy your perfectly grilled carne asada!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat for Carne Asada?
Absolutely! While flank steak and skirt steak are traditional choices, you can also use cuts like sirloin or ribeye. Just remember that different cuts will have varying levels of tenderness and flavor, so adjust cooking times as necessary.
How Do I Know When the Steak Is Done?
The best way to check doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, look for an internal temperature of about 135°F (57°C). Remember, the steak will continue to cook a bit while resting, so you can remove it from the grill at about 5°F (3°C) below your target temperature.
Can I Marinate the Steak Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great way to infuse even more flavor into the meat! Just be sure to keep it refrigerated and to check for tenderness, as very long marinating times can occasionally affect the texture of the meat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying it out.
