Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are perfect for taco night! With juicy, marinated steak seared to perfection, they are served in warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime. These tacos are versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or cotija cheese. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos will surely impress your family and friends.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Carne Asada:
• For the Tacos:
• For the Optional Salsa:
• How to Make Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Step 1: Marinate the Steak
• Step 2: Preheat the Pan
• Step 3: Cook the Steak
• Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak
• Step 5: Warm the Tortillas
• Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Fresh Ingredients
• Tasty Toppings
• Cheese Options
• How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• How do I make my Carne Asada more flavorful?
• Can I use other meats besides beef?
• What are some popular toppings for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• How can I customize my taco recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Making Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills.
• Flavor Explosion: The marinade infuses the steak with vibrant flavors, making every bite delicious.
• Customizable Options: Pair with various toppings to suit all taste preferences; everyone can create their own masterpiece!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, parties, or a fun weekend treat.
• Quick Cooking Time: From prep to plate, this recipe takes only about 40 minutes!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking these amazing tacos, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Resealable bag or shallow dish
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for a perfect sear on the steak.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients easily.
• Cutting board: Protects your counters while slicing the cooked steak safely.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts when slicing the steak against the grain.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos:

For the Carne Asada:

• 1 ½ lbs flank steak or skirt steak
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

For the Tacos:

• 12 small corn tortillas
• ½ cup diced white onion (or red onion for a stronger flavor)
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Crumbled cotija cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Optional toppings: Salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, or hot sauce

For the Optional Salsa:

• 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

PIN THIS!

How to Make Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Steak

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the steak and seal it. Refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Preheat the Pan

Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat until very hot. This ensures a perfect sear on the steak.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place it in the hot skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes per side. Adjust time based on thickness and desired doneness; aim for medium-rare (about 130°F internal temperature).

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak

Transfer cooked steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While resting the steak, warm tortillas in the same skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly charred.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each warm tortilla with sliced carne asada. Top with diced onions and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime juice over them. Add salsa or guacamole as desired.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side and any additional toppings of your choice.

Enjoy your delicious Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos!

How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Serving Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos is all about creating an authentic experience. These tacos are not only delicious but also offer a chance to customize each one to your liking. Here are some popular serving suggestions that allow you to enjoy these flavorful tacos to their fullest.

Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro – Fresh chopped cilantro adds a bright flavor that complements the meat.
• Diced Onions – Choose either white or red onions for a crunchy texture and sharp taste.
• Lime Wedges – A squeeze of lime juice enhances the flavors and adds acidity.

Tasty Toppings

• Salsa – Add your favorite salsa for a mix of heat and freshness.
• Guacamole – Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly with the savory carne asada.
• Jalapeños – For those who like it spicy, sliced jalapeños add an extra kick.

Cheese Options

• Cotija Cheese – Crumbled cotija cheese brings a salty and creamy element to your tacos.
• Queso Fresco – A mild cheese that crumbles easily, adding a nice texture to each bite.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

To truly master the art of making Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, consider these essential tips. With careful attention to detail, you can elevate your taco night!

• Marinate Wisely – Allow the steak to marinate for at least 2-4 hours or overnight. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
• Preheat Your Pan – Make sure your skillet is hot enough before cooking. A hot pan creates a perfect sear, locking in all the delicious juices.
• Slice Against the Grain – Always slice your steak thinly against the grain. This technique ensures maximum tenderness in every bite.
• Warm Tortillas Properly – Heat tortillas just until pliable. Wrapping them in a damp towel keeps them warm and soft until serving.
• Experiment with Toppings – Don’t be afraid to try different toppings like pickled onions or avocado slices for added flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning as Needed – Taste as you go! Adjust salt, lime juice, or spice levels based on your personal preference.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos can enhance the meal even further. Here are some great options that complement the flavors beautifully:

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a hearty side that balances well with tacos.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy refried beans offer protein and a comforting texture alongside your tacos.
3. Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayo, cheese, and chili powder adds sweetness and crunch.
4. Chips with Salsa – Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa provide a fun appetizer or snack option.
5. Guacamole Salad – A simple salad topped with guacamole gives you greens along with creamy goodness.
6. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies grilled with spices offer a healthy and colorful addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using Cold Steak: Starting with cold steak can prevent a proper sear. Always let your steak come to room temperature before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too much steak in the skillet can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the meat can lead to bland tacos. Allow at least 2-4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
• Not Letting the Meat Rest: Cutting into the steak too soon can cause juices to run out. Always let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can ruin the experience. Warm them up just prior to assembly for a soft, pliable texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the carne asada and toppings separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Freeze any leftover carne asada in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tortillas separately in foil or plastic wrap before freezing.

Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place carne asada on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place carne asada on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add carne asada, and cook until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos feature marinated and grilled steak served in warm corn tortillas, often topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime.

How do I make my Carne Asada more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, marinate your steak longer—up to overnight—and consider adding spices like oregano or cayenne pepper for extra zest.

Can I use other meats besides beef?

Yes! You can substitute flank or skirt steak with chicken or pork if you prefer, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

What are some popular toppings for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Common toppings include diced onions, fresh cilantro, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, and crumbled cotija cheese.

How can I customize my taco recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as avocado slices, different salsas, or even pickled vegetables to make it your own!

Final Thoughts

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings and sides, making them perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of authentic street food right at home!