Carne asada tacos are tender, juicy grilled steak folded into warm corn tortillas, topped with cilantro, onion, cotija cheese, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for authentic carne asada tacos flavor. This meat-forward taco recipe uses marinated flank steak or skirt steak tacos that soak up a citrus marinade for steak, giving every bite bold, smoky, and fresh notes. Whether you’re planning easy taco recipes for taco night recipes, these grilled steak tacos deliver high protein satisfaction with homemade carne asada ease.
How to Make Carne Asada Tacos at Home: Marinate flank steak in lime, garlic, and spices, grill to perfection, slice against the grain, then assemble over corn tortillas with fresh toppings and optional hot sauce or red bell pepper salsa.
In This Recipe
How to Make Carne Asada Tacos at Home
If you’ve ever wandered past a sizzling taco stand and caught a whiff of smoky, citrus-marinated steak on the grill, you’ve already experienced the allure of carne asada tacos. But replicating that authentic carne asada flavor at home is easier than you think. This section sets the stage for what you’ll need, how to prep, and what makes these tacos stand out, without diving into the actual cooking yet.
At its heart, a great carne asada taco starts with quality meat, a flavorful carne asada marinade, and simple yet vibrant toppings. Choosing between marinated flank steak, skirt steak, or even flat iron steak is a key part of capturing that grilled street taco vibe. Whether you’re planning a big taco night or seeking healthy high protein options like Healthy Skirt Steak Tacos, this version gives you the flexibility to adapt while preserving tradition.
Expect citrusy depth from the steak taco marinade, bright crunch from toppings like cilantro and onion, and the creamy contrast of cotija cheese and avocado, all nestled in warm corn tortillas. You’ll also find options like BBQ carne asada or Slow Cooker Carne Asada Tacos that fit your lifestyle, from weeknight dinners to outdoor grilling weekends.
So before we dive into exact measurements and instructions, get ready to learn how to layer these flavors like a true taquero and explore ideas like taco bar ideas or even red bell pepper salsa twists. Let’s bring the Mexican street tacos spirit into your kitchen.
Get ready to dive into the full recipe card, this section sets the stage. You’ll learn how to prep marinated flank steak, build the flavorful carne asada marinade, and gather toppings like cotija cheese tacos, avocado tacos, and everything needed for a taco bar ideas spread. In just a moment, a complete Tasty-style recipe card will guide you step by step.
PrintCarne Asada Tacos Recipe
Authentic carne asada tacos made with juicy, marinated flank steak grilled to perfection, served in warm corn tortillas, and topped with fresh cilantro, diced onion, cotija cheese, creamy avocado, and a splash of hot sauce. A high-protein taco night favorite packed with flavor and street-style charm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes active (plus 2–8 hours marinade)
- Yield: 4–6 servings (12 tacos) 1x
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- For the Carne Asada Marinade:
- 2 lb flank steak or skirt steak
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup diced white onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- Hot sauce (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the marinade
Whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and spices in a bowl. Place steak in a zip-lock bag or glass container and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for 2–8 hours.
Step 2 – Grill the steak
Remove steak from marinade and let it come to room temperature. Grill over high heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 3 – Slice the steak
Slice the grilled steak thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Step 4 – Prep Your Toppings
Classic carne asada taco toppings including chopped onion, cilantro, avocado, and cotija cheese set out on a wooden board for easy taco night prep
Step 5 – Assemble the tacos
Place sliced steak on tortillas. Top with onion, cilantro, cotija cheese, avocado, and hot sauce if desired. Serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Marinate no more than 8 hours to prevent meat from becoming mushy.
- Flank steak and skirt steak both work; flank is leaner, skirt is richer.
- For weight loss versions, reduce cheese, skip oil, and load up on veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 234
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 262 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 42 mg
Which Meat Cuts Work Best for Carne Asada Tacos?
When it comes to crafting the perfect carne asada tacos, the cut of meat you choose is absolutely essential. The right steak delivers the juicy, flavorful bite that defines authentic carne asada tacos, especially when paired with a bold citrus marinade for steak and kissed by the grill.
Flank Steak vs. Skirt Steak
Flank steak and skirt steak are the top two contenders for carne asada. Flank steak is leaner, with a strong beefy flavor and a more uniform shape, making it easier to slice thinly against the grain. It’s especially great if you’re planning a high protein taco night or keeping an eye on healthy eating.
Skirt steak, on the other hand, is fattier and more marbled, leading to a richer flavor. It’s a favorite for Mexican street tacos and offers a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness when grilled hot and fast. If you’re after that signature street-style texture, skirt steak is the go-to.
Both cuts respond beautifully to a carne asada marinade packed with citrus, garlic, and herbs. Just be sure not to over-marinate, 2 to 8 hours is ideal to avoid breaking down the fibers too much.
What About Flat Iron Steak?
Flat iron steak is a newer favorite among home cooks for carne asada. It’s relatively affordable, tender, and cooks evenly. While not traditional, it’s a fantastic alternative that adapts well to grilling carne asada for a crowd or a taco bar setup.
Slice It Right
No matter the cut, slicing is critical. Always cut against the grain to shorten the muscle fibers and make the meat easier to chew. This technique unlocks the tender, melt-in-your-mouth feel that makes grilled steak tacos unforgettable.
The Ultimate Carne Asada Marinade
If there’s one secret to unforgettable carne asada tacos, it’s the marinade. A good carne asada marinade transforms flank steak or skirt steak into juicy, flavor-packed strips perfect for tacos with cilantro and onion or even layered in a full taco bar spread.
Key Ingredients That Deliver Bold Flavor
A classic carne asada marinade centers on citrus. Fresh lime and orange juices add brightness and tenderize the meat. Garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and chili powder deepen the flavor profile, especially when paired with olive oil to help everything cling to the meat.
This simple blend is what makes grilled steak tacos sing, whether you’re cooking over an open flame or searing in a skillet. The result? A beautiful char on the outside, juicy steak within.
Timing Matters
To get that authentic carne asada texture without turning the meat mushy, marinate for at least 2 hours, ideally up to 8 hours. Any longer and the citrus may begin to break down the muscle fibers too much, especially in leaner cuts like flank steak.
If you’re in a rush, even 30 minutes can make a difference, just double the seasoning intensity. For those prepping in advance, this step is perfect for overnight marination before a summer BBQ carne asada session.
Helpful Tip: After marinating, bring the steak to room temperature before grilling. This helps it cook more evenly and gives a better crust.
Flavor Variations Worth Trying
- BBQ Carne Asada: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste or BBQ sauce to the marinade for a smoky-sweet profile.
- Healthy Skirt Steak Tacos: Use low-sodium soy sauce and swap olive oil for avocado oil for a healthier twist.
- Spicy Citrus Boost: Add chipotle in adobo or jalapeño for extra kick, perfect for those who like their carne asada tacos with heat and a splash of hot sauce.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Pickled onions
- Jalapeños
- Mango salsa
- Greek yogurt crema
Assembling the Perfect Tacos
A great carne asada taco is more than just steak and a tortilla. The right combination of toppings turns your grilled steak tacos into a true celebration of flavor and texture. Let’s walk through how to build carne asada tacos that feel just as vibrant and satisfying as the ones served on the streets of Mexico.
Corn Tortillas: Your Foundation
Start with corn tortillas, which are traditional for Mexican street tacos. Their mild flavor lets the steak and toppings shine. Lightly toast them on a skillet or grill for 30 seconds per side to bring out their aroma and make them pliable.
Classic Carne Asada Toppings
- Cilantro and Onion: This combo adds brightness and crunch. A spoonful of finely diced white onion and freshly chopped cilantro goes a long way.
- Cotija Cheese: Salty, crumbly, and perfect for contrasting the juicy marinated steak.
- Avocado: For richness, creaminess, and bonus healthy fats. Sliced or mashed, both work beautifully.
Flavorful Add-Ons & Texture Twists
- Hot Sauce: A few drops of smoky hot sauce enhance the grilled flavor.
- Red Bell Pepper Salsa: Roast red peppers and blend with garlic and lime for a vibrant topping that’s sweet, tangy, and a little smoky.
- Pickled Veggies: Pickled jalapeños or radishes add color and acidity.
These layers aren’t just tasty, they bring balance. The acidic brightness of the lime, the fatty depth of avocado, and the pop of cheese make every bite layered and exciting.
Make It a Taco Bar Night
Hosting a crowd? Set up a DIY taco bar with bowls of marinated flank steak, tortillas, toppings, and hot sauces. It’s interactive, festive, and allows everyone to create their favorite carne asada tacos.
Variations & Healthy Options
Whether you’re counting macros or just craving a lighter take on carne asada tacos, there are plenty of easy tweaks to suit your lifestyle. From protein-packed alternatives to low-carb options, these ideas prove that flavor and wellness can happily coexist.
Healthy Skirt Steak Tacos: Lean and Flavorful
For a healthier version, use flank steak, which is leaner than skirt steak but still packs bold flavor, especially when marinated properly. Pair it with low-sodium carne asada marinade, skip the cheese if needed, and load up on fresh toppings like avocado and red bell pepper.
Swap traditional corn tortillas for lettuce wraps or low-carb almond flour tortillas to keep carbs in check. These small changes keep your tacos satisfying while reducing calorie and carb intake.
Try pairing this with our Cabbage and Ground Beef Soup for a protein-rich dinner combo.
Slow Cooker Carne Asada Tacos: Set It and Forget It
Short on time? The slow cooker offers a hands-off way to enjoy carne asada tacos. After marinating the steak, add it to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. The result is fork-tender meat that shreds easily, perfect for taco bowls, lettuce wraps, or traditional tacos.
You can even freeze portions for meal prep taco night recipes, helping you stay on track during busy weeks.
High-Protein Taco Bowls
Turn carne asada into a deconstructed taco bowl. Serve sliced steak over cauliflower rice or a bed of shredded cabbage, and top with avocado, salsa, cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro.
These bowls are ideal for weight loss goals, offering healthy fats, protein, and low-glycemic vegetables.
Craving a drink with it? Pair it with our Natural Mounjaro Recipe for added metabolism support.
Nutrition & Weight-Loss Friendly Analysis
Carne asada tacos aren’t just satisfying, they can be surprisingly health-conscious when made right. With lean protein, whole ingredients, and simple toppings, they fit beautifully into a balanced diet, even during weight loss.
Is Carne Asada Healthy for Weight Loss?
Yes, especially when you choose flank steak or lean flat iron steak, and use portion-controlled toppings. Each taco delivers around 234 calories with 20 grams of protein, making it a high protein option that supports muscle maintenance and appetite control.
Keep the sodium in check by making a homemade carne asada marinade and skipping store-bought sauces. You can also adjust fat intake by omitting cheese or using less oil.
Are Steak Tacos Healthy for Weight Loss?
They can be, especially when you serve them with nutrient-dense add-ons like red bell pepper, avocado, and leafy greens. For those following low-carb plans, skip the tortillas and enjoy a taco salad or lettuce wrap instead.
If you’re tracking macros or on a calorie-controlled plan, consider these ideas:
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour to save calories and carbs.
- Stick with one slice of avocado and light cotija cheese.
- Add citrus-marinated steak to a taco bowl with cabbage slaw and fresh salsa.
For more slimming meals, explore our Best Homemade Weight Loss Drinks and Purple Sweet Potato Brownies (Vegan).
How Many Calories Are in a Carne Asada Taco?
One carne asada taco typically contains:
- 234 calories
- 20 g protein
- 12 g fat
- 2 g fiber
- 12 g carbs
These numbers vary slightly based on toppings and tortilla size, but overall, it’s a meal you can feel good about, especially when paired with other high protein recipes like our Insanely Delicious Keto Chicken Nuggets or Egg Roll Soup Recipe – Low Carb.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Carne Asada Tacos
What is on carne asada tacos?
Traditional carne asada tacos feature grilled, marinated steak (usually flank or skirt), served on warm corn tortillas and topped with chopped cilantro, diced onion, crumbled cotija cheese, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. Optional toppings include hot sauce or red bell pepper salsa.
Is carne asada tacos healthy?
Yes, they can be. Carne asada tacos are rich in protein and, when topped with vegetables and healthy fats like avocado, offer a nutrient-dense meal. Choosing lean cuts and moderating high-fat toppings like cheese helps keep them balanced and health-conscious.
What kind of meat is carne asada?
Carne asada typically uses flank steak or skirt steak. Both cuts absorb marinade well and cook quickly over high heat, resulting in tender, flavorful meat perfect for tacos and other Mexican street-style dishes.
Why are carne asada tacos so good?
The bold, citrusy marinade, smoky grilled crust, and fresh toppings all come together in perfect harmony. They offer a satisfying balance of texture, flavor, and freshness, making them one of the most popular easy taco recipes for home cooks and taco trucks alike.
Is carne asada healthy for weight loss?
Yes, especially when made with lean cuts like flank steak, light on cheese, and served in moderation. It’s a high-protein, low-sugar option that can be adapted with low-carb tortillas or veggie wraps for added weight-loss benefits.
Can I eat tacos during weight loss?
Absolutely. Focus on portion control, lean proteins, and healthy toppings. Skip or limit calorie-dense ingredients like sour cream, and opt for high-volume veggies and balanced macros.
Are steak tacos healthy for weight loss?
Yes. Steak tacos, especially those made with grilled carne asada and served in corn tortillas, are a great source of protein. Using nutrient-dense toppings and mindful ingredient swaps can make them even more diet-friendly.
How many calories are in a carne asada taco?
On average, one carne asada taco contains about 234 calories, though this can vary based on the tortilla, meat portion, and toppings like cheese or avocado. They’re a solid option for a balanced, flavorful meal.
Final Thoughts on Making the Best Carne Asada Tacos
Carne asada tacos bring together the best of bold, smoky grilled flavors and vibrant, fresh toppings in a dish that’s deeply satisfying yet adaptable for a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re using marinated flank steak for taco night recipes or experimenting with a slow cooker version, this meal hits all the right notes, flavor, texture, and ease.
Don’t forget: with high-protein content and countless topping variations, these grilled steak tacos are as nourishing as they are crowd-pleasing. Plus, they’re perfect for family dinners, taco bars, or casual backyard gatherings.
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