Name: Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced; 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons); 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1/3 cup olive oil; juice of 1 orange (about 1/4 cup of juice); juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons of juice); 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for grilling); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more for grilling); 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak, excess fat removed; 16 corn tortillas, warmed (or flour tortillas); 1/2 medium onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese; lime wedges, for serving; Optional toppings as desired

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a well-made carne asada taco — the smoky, tender steak paired with fresh toppings just hits the spot every time. If you’re looking for a Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe that’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to make at home, you’ve come to the right place!

Two soft yellow corn tortillas lie flat on a white plate covered with white parchment paper. Each tortilla has a bottom layer of mashed green avocado spread evenly. On top, there are small cubes of grilled dark brown steak with a seared crust, speckled with small white bits of crumbled cheese and diced white onions. Fresh green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the steak. To the side on the parchment, there are three lime wedges, some partially squeezed. In the background, a white bowl filled with more chopped green herbs sits on a white marbled surface with some herb bits scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I genuinely get so excited sharing this recipe because it brings the flavors of authentic Mexican street food right to your kitchen. Plus, it’s straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests.

Juicy, tender steak: Marinated for 2 hours to soak up bold, fresh flavors.
Simple ingredients: You’ll find most items right in your pantry or local market.
Quick grilling: Just 20 minutes to cook, perfect for an easy dinner.
Customizable toppings: Traditional cotija cheese & cilantro with options to make it your own.

Ingredients & Why They Work

When putting together a tender carne asada taco, the right ingredients make all the difference. Here’s a quick guide on what I use to create those incredible layers of flavor—and what to keep an eye out for when shopping.

Flat lay of one fresh green jalapeño pepper, four whole uncracked brown garlic cloves, a small pile of vibrant green chopped cilantro, a small white ceramic bowl filled with golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl with bright orange fresh orange juice, a small white ceramic bowl containing pale yellow fresh lime juice, a small white ceramic bowl of clear white wine vinegar, small heaps of deep red chili powder, coarse white kosher salt crystals, warm light brown ground cumin powder, dried oregano sprigs, rich dark red ancho chili powder, a small mound of freshly ground black pepper, a raw fresh flank steak with trimmed fat, a neat stack of soft yellow corn tortillas, half a small white onion finely diced, a small pile of chopped cilantro, crumbled white cotija cheese, and fresh green lime wedges — all arranged with perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic dishes and plates, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Jalapeño pepper: Adds just the right kick without overpowering the steak.
Garlic: Essential for that savory depth in the marinade.
Cilantro: Fresh, bright, and perfect both in the marinade and as a topping.
Olive oil: Helps carry flavors and keeps the steak juicy during grilling.
Orange and lime juice: The citrus tenderizes the meat and adds a fresh zing.
White wine vinegar: Balances flavors with a mild tang.
Chili powders (regular & ancho): Give depth and smokiness to the marinade.
Spices (cumin, oregano, kosher salt, black pepper): The classic Mexican staples for seasoning.
Flank or skirt steak: Ideal cuts for carne asada—lean but packed with flavor.
Corn tortillas: Traditional base that’s slightly charred for authentic flavor (or flour as an alternative).
Onion and cotija cheese: Classic fresh toppings that add bite and creaminess.
Lime wedges: For that final fresh squeeze before digging in.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is how easily you can customize it to match your mood, pantry, or dietary needs. Whether you like things spicy, milder, or with a little extra crunch, there are plenty of ways to make these tacos truly your own.

Spice it up: If you love a serious kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a few slices of pickled jalapeños as a topping. I always enjoy that extra heat that wakes up the flavors.
Make it vegetarian: For a meatless take, try marinating and grilling thick portobello mushrooms with the same marinade. They soak up the flavors beautifully and make for a satisfying taco filling.
Change the cheese: Don’t have cotija? Crumbled feta or paneer can be great stand-ins that add a tangy, crumbly texture.
Seasonal twist: Add grilled pineapple or mango salsa for a sweet contrast that complements the smoky carne asada. It adds a fresh summer vibe that I adore during warm evenings.
Alternative cooking methods: If you don’t have a grill, cooking the steak in a hot cast iron skillet or broiling it in your oven works just as well, delivering great caramelization and flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

The image shows many small cubes of cooked beef with a mix of dark brown charred edges and pink centers, scattered on a light wooden cutting board with some meat juice glistening on the surface. The beef pieces look tender and slightly rough textured, spread unevenly across the board which sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavorful Marinade

Start by combining minced jalapeño, garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, fresh orange and lime juice, white wine vinegar, and a perfect blend of chili powder, kosher salt, cumin, oregano, ancho chili powder, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. The citrus juices and herbs make the marinade bright and zesty – you’ll smell the vibrant, mouthwatering scent right away. This step sets the flavor foundation for your steak, so take your time to get those flavors balanced just right.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak for Maximum Tenderness

Place your flank or skirt steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over, making sure every inch is covered. Seal it tightly or cover, then pop it into the fridge for 2 hours. This marinating time is essential—it lets the citrus and spices tenderize the meat while infusing it with flavor. If you have extra time, marinating overnight takes it up another notch in juiciness and depth, but 2 hours is the sweet spot for a fast, flavorful meal.

Step 3: Heat the Grill and Get Ready for Sizzle

About 20 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat—a temperature perfect for searing without drying out your steak. Lightly oil the grates to keep the meat from sticking and to get those beautiful grill marks. You’ll know the grill is ready when you can hold your hand above it for only 2-3 seconds before it feels too hot.

Step 4: Grill the Steak to Juicy Perfection

Remove the steak from the marinade, letting excess drip off gently, then season both sides with a sprinkle of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place it on the grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side, aiming for medium rare to medium doneness—this will keep the meat tender and juicy. You’ll see a beautiful sear develop and smell that irresistible smoky aroma filling the air. Resist the urge to move it around too much; let it sit to get those perfect grill marks.

Step 5: Rest and Slice Thin for the Best Bite

Once grilled, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This pause is crucial—it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, preventing them from spilling out when sliced. Use a sharp knife to slice the steak thinly against the grain; this technique breaks down muscle fibers and ensures each bite melts in your mouth.

Step 6: Warm Up Those Tortillas

While your steak rests, warm your corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side or heat them in a skillet until they’re soft, pliable, and just a little charred. Warm tortillas fold easily and provide the perfect soft, slightly smoky foundation for your tacos.

Step 7: Assemble and Enjoy Your Carne Asada Tacos

Pile the thinly sliced carne asada onto each warm tortilla, then sprinkle with finely diced onion, fresh chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Finish it off with a squeeze of lime juice for that bright, tangy zing. Feel free to add any other toppings you love—avocado slices, salsa, or pickled jalapeños add fantastic flavor and texture. Now, bite in and savor the juicy, tender goodness that only a well-made carne asada taco can deliver.

Top Tip

These tips will help you get the most out of your Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe, ensuring juicy steak and perfectly assembled tacos every time.

Marinate Overnight: While the recipe calls for 2 hours of marinating, letting your steak soak up the flavors overnight really amps up the tenderness and depth without extra effort.
Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the steak thinly and against the grain is key—I learned this the hard way. It makes each bite super tender and easy to enjoy.
Keep Tortillas Warm: Warm your corn tortillas just before serving, either on the grill or in a hot skillet, to keep them pliable and authentic tasting.
Don’t Skip the Rest: Resting the steak for 10 minutes after grilling helps redistribute the juices so your tacos stay juicy and flavorful instead of dry.

How to Serve Tender Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Three yellow corn tortillas each filled with a base layer of chunky green guacamole spread on the bottom, topped with small pieces of dark brown grilled beef with some pink inside, scattered small white onion cubes and finely chopped fresh green cilantro leaves, all on a sheet of white paper on a dark grey plate. There is a fresh half lime behind the tacos on the plate. The plate is on a white marbled surface with a bowl of chopped green cilantro in the top left corner and a light fabric napkin on the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

The classic toppings are finely diced onion, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese—these perfectly complement the smoky, marinated steak. Don’t forget fresh lime wedges to squeeze over each taco for a bright, tangy burst. For extra flair, optional toppings like sliced avocado, fresh salsa, or pickled jalapeños add texture and heat.

Side Dishes

Pair these tacos with traditional Mexican sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp jicama salad. Grilled street corn (elote) or a fresh cucumber and radish salad can also brighten the meal beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover sliced carne asada in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep your tortillas separately wrapped in foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked carne asada slices by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container, with as much air removed as possible. They will stay good for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your carne asada gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to preserve tenderness. Warm your corn tortillas separately just before serving to maintain their soft texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes! Flank or skirt steak is recommended for their flavor and texture, but you can also use sirloin or ribeye if you prefer. Just remember to adjust grilling times accordingly.

How long should I marinate the steak?

The recipe calls for 2 hours of marinating time, but for more intense flavor and tenderness, feel free to marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have a grill?

No worries! You can cook the steak on a hot cast iron skillet or under the oven broiler. Just make sure to get a good sear for maximum flavor.

How do I keep the tortillas from tearing?

Warm the tortillas just before serving either on the grill or in a skillet. This softens them and makes them more pliable, reducing tearing when you fold them around the filling.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around with friends or family to enjoy Tender Carne Asada Tacos made from scratch. The juicy, flavorful steak paired with fresh toppings and warm tortillas makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, I hope this recipe brings joy and deliciousness to your table!