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Grilled flank steak marinated in a flavorful mix of orange and lime juice, spices, onion and garlic- this Carne Asada is smoky, juicy, and tender! Perfect for using in tacos, burritos, salads and more!
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Restaurant Quality Carne Asada at Home
First of all, this carne asada is a total game-changer – every time I make it my family can’t stop raving. The flavor mix is a knockout: tangy lime juice, savory garlic, a hint of smoky cumin, and a punch of citrus thanks to the orange juice. The marinade is simple, but the result? Juicy, tender steak that’s bursting with flavor. Trust me, you’ll be coming back to this one again and again.
Secondly, it’s not complicated at all, but just look at those charred edges!
You don’t have to stick to the traditional cuts either. Sure, flank or skirt steak is classic, but if you’re looking for budget friendly try this with chuck steak. The versatility is what makes this recipe such a winner – it’s perfect for shaking up your dinner routine.
Plus, grilling this carne asada is an absolute must! I’ve tried it on the stovetop, but there’s something about those charred edges and the smoky flavor from the grill that just takes it to the next level. Your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you.
Ingredients Needed
Find the complete recipe card below with measurements and full instructions.
How to Make Authentic Carne Asada
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl combine the freshly squeezed orange and lime juice (fresh is the only way to go!), diced cilantro, minced garlic, and seasoning blend. Our custom seasoning blend includes:
- salt
- onion powder
- garlic powder
- ground cumin
- smoked paprika
- and ground black pepper
- Marinate the Meat: Once that marinade is prepped it’s time to soak the meat. Using a baking dish lay your steak then pour the marinade over the top. Then we’re going to add the sliced oranges and white onion on top of the meat. Cover this all up, and place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 4 hours. It can marinate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
- Grill the Meat: Preheat your grill to 400 degrees F. Remove the extra slices of oranges and onion from the meat, and scrape off the excess marinade (drips into the flames will cause flares!). Grill the steak for 3-5 minutes on each side. Check the temperature in the thickest part using an instant read thermometer: Rare: 115℉ -120℉ Medium Rare: 120℉ – 125℉ Medium: 130℉-135℉ Well Done: 140℉ – 145℉.
- Cover and Rest: Once the carne asada is cooked to your desired doneness level, remove it from the grill, setting the steak on a large cutting board or plate. Cover the steak with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Carne Asada Tacos Anyone?
One of our favorite way of serving up our carne asada is on tacos! Chop up your cooked steak and layer it on soft corn tortillas with diced cilantro and white onion. Add a drizzle of crema and some crumbled cotija for an authentic street taco experience!
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Authentic Carne Asada
Ingredients
- 1½-3 lbs flank steak
- ½ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup lime juice freshly squeezed
- ½ bunch cilantro chopped
- 2 tbsp garlic minced
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 orange sliced
- ½ white onion sliced
Instructions
- In a small bowl combine the orange juice, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and seasonings. Stir together. Will be thick.
- Coat the meat in the marinade. Place on a tray, in a bag, or container. Top with orange slices and onion. Cover and refrigerate for 4-24 hours.
- Preheat grill to 400°F. Remove the extra oranges and onion from the meat. Grill for 3-5 minutes. Then turn and cook the other side an additonal 3-5 minutes.
- Check the temperature of the meat in the thickest part. Rare: 115℉ -120℉ Medium Rare: 120℉ – 125℉ Medium: 130℉-135℉ Well Done: 140℉ – 145℉.
- Remove the meat from the grill when desired temperature is reached. Cover with foil and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice meat thinly against the grain and serve.
Video
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to grill my Carne Asada?
No! If you don’t have a grill or access to one, you can make this in a cast iron skillet on the stovetop.
What cut of meat is Carne Asada?
The most common cuts include flank steak and skirt steak. However you can use chuck roast if you are looking for a budget friendly cut.
Why is Carne Asada special?
Because it is delicious… Also because of the delightful smoky flavor that comes from cooking over open flames.
What does Carne Asada mean?
Translated carne asada simply means grilled meat.
More Ways to Use your Grill
Photography by KJandCompany.co
Recipe first published June 23, 2020. Updated August 12, 2024.
