Carne Asada

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Carne Asada is a flavorful, grilled beef dish that’s a staple in Mexican cuisine. Known for its smoky, citrus-marinated meat, it’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or served alongside rice and beans. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or craving authentic street food at home, Carne Asada delivers bold, savory flavors with every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flank or skirt beefmarinated olive oillime juiceorange juicegarlicclilantrosoy saucesaltblack pepperchili powdercuminoregano

directions

In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, soy sauce, salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and oregano.

Add the beef and coat it thoroughly with the marinade. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat.

Remove the beef from the marinade and let excess drip off.

Grill the beef for 4–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.

Transfer to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 2–12 hoursGrilling time: 8–14 minutesResting and slicing: 10 minutesTotal time: 2.5 to 13 hours (mostly inactive)

Variations

Use beer instead of orange juice for a deeper flavor.

Add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the marinade for extra heat.

Try it with ribeye or sirloin if you prefer thicker cuts.

Cook it on a cast iron skillet indoors if a grill isn’t available.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through or microwave in short bursts to avoid drying out.Sliced meat can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What cut of meat is best for Carne Asada?

Flank or skirt steak are traditional and offer great flavor and tenderness when sliced thin.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, broil on high for about 5–7 minutes per side, watching closely to avoid overcooking.

Do I have to marinate overnight?

Overnight marination enhances flavor, but even 2 hours will impart a good taste.

Is Carne Asada spicy?

It’s mildly spicy, but you can adjust heat with more or less chili powder or by adding hot peppers.

How do I know when it’s done?

Use a meat thermometer: 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. Let rest before slicing.

Can I use bottled citrus juice?

Fresh juice is best for flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What sides go well with Carne Asada?

Rice, beans, grilled vegetables, guacamole, and tortillas all pair beautifully.

Can I make Carne Asada in advance?

Yes, marinate and grill in advance. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat.

Is Carne Asada gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

How thin should I slice it?

As thin as possible against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Conclusion

Carne Asada is a smoky, zesty, and satisfying dish that brings authentic Mexican flavor to your table. With a simple marinade and quick grill time, it’s perfect for casual dinners or festive gatherings. Try it once, and it may become your go-to recipe for flavorful, grilled beef.

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