Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

These Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are perfect for taco night or any festive occasion. Juicy, marinated steak is cooked to perfection and served in soft corn tortillas, making every bite a burst of flavor. With fresh toppings like cilantro and onion, plus the option to customize with salsa or guacamole, these tacos stand out as a delicious and easy meal for family gatherings or casual weeknights.

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
• Classic Toppings
• Salsas and Sauces
• Cheese
• Additional Veggies
• 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 choose the right cut of meat?
• Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
• How do I customize my Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• What pairs well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The marinade infuses the steak with vibrant flavors, ensuring each bite is delicious.
• Quick to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can have mouthwatering tacos ready in under an hour.
• Customizable Toppings: Personalize your tacos with various toppings like salsa, jalapeños, or cotija cheese for added flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party, these tacos are always a hit.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Kids and adults alike will love building their own tacos with their favorite ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Resealable plastic bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron skillet: Provides high heat for perfectly searing the steak, locking in all the delicious flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the marinade ingredients easily and efficiently.
• Cutting board and knife: Necessary for slicing the cooked steak against the grain for tender bites.

Ingredients

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. Seal it up and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours (overnight is best).

Step 2: Preheat the Pan

Heat your cast-iron skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. This ensures that you get a great sear on the carne asada.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place it in your hot skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side based on thickness. Aim for medium-rare (around 130°F internal temperature).

Step 4: Rest and Slice the Steak

Transfer your cooked steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes so juices can redistribute. Thinly slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While your steak rests, warm your tortillas in either the same skillet or another dry skillet over medium heat. Heat them for about 30 seconds per side until they are pliable.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Take each warm tortilla and fill it with sliced carne asada. Top with diced onions and chopped cilantro. Squeeze fresh lime on top! Feel free to add any additional toppings you desire.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side along with any extra toppings you’ve chosen!

How to Serve Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are not just a meal; they are a festive experience! These tacos can be served in various delightful ways, allowing everyone to customize their own plate. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions that will elevate your taco night.

Classic Toppings

• Diced onions: Fresh and crunchy, they add a nice bite to the tacos.
• Chopped cilantro: This herb brings freshness and enhances the flavors of the carne asada.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens up the dish and adds zesty flavor.

Salsas and Sauces

• Pico de gallo: A fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing topping.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness that pairs perfectly with the savory steak.
• Hot sauce: For those who love a kick, adding hot sauce can spice things up!

Cheese

• Crumbled cotija cheese: This salty cheese adds richness and complements the meat beautifully.
• Shredded cheese blend: A mix of cheeses can melt into the warm tortillas for extra flavor.

Additional Veggies

• Sliced jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, they provide heat and crunch.
• Shredded lettuce: Adds a crispy texture that balances the juicy steak.

How to Perfect Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

To ensure your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are nothing short of amazing, follow these essential tips for perfect results every time.

• Choose quality meat: Opt for flank or skirt steak with good marbling for tenderness and flavor.
• Marinate overnight: Allowing the steak to marinate overnight enhances its flavor profile significantly.
• Preheat your skillet: Make sure your skillet is very hot before cooking to achieve a great sear on the meat.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the steak rest to ensure juices redistribute for maximum juiciness.
• Slice against the grain: This method ensures that each bite is tender and easy to chew.
• Warm tortillas properly: Heat them just enough so they’re pliable but not too crispy to fold.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

To complement your Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos, consider these delicious side dishes that bring balance and variety to your meal.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes, spices, and vegetables creates a flavorful base for tacos.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans seasoned with spices provide protein and richness alongside your tacos.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and lime adds a delightful sweetness to the plate.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa make for a fun appetizer or snack.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn coated in mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chili powder is an irresistible treat.
6. Cabbage Slaw: Crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots tossed in lime dressing adds freshness and color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make mistakes when preparing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the steak to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Steak: Cooking the steak too long can make it tough. Aim for a medium-rare doneness, which is about 130°F internal temperature.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Serving cold tortillas can ruin the taco experience. Warm them up in a skillet until they are pliable and slightly charred.
• Not Letting the Meat Rest: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes for maximum tenderness.
• Neglecting Toppings: Skimping on fresh toppings like cilantro and onions can make your tacos less exciting. Load them up with your favorites for extra flavor.
• Ignoring Texture: Slicing against the grain is crucial for tender bites. Always slice thinly against the grain to enhance texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Wrap tacos tightly in foil or place in freezer bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap tacos in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until warm, about 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm tacos in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until heated through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos feature marinated and grilled steak served in corn tortillas with fresh toppings like cilantro and lime.

How do I choose the right cut of meat?

For Carne Asada, flank steak or skirt steak are ideal due to their flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the steak ahead of time and even prepare toppings so that assembly is quick on taco night.

How do I customize my Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

Add your favorite toppings such as guacamole, salsa, or jalapeños to customize these tacos according to your taste preferences.

What pairs well with Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos?

These tacos pair well with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Carne Asada Mexican Street Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or serve them alongside various sides. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful taco night experience!

---