Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Savory with bright acidity and just the right amount of heat, carne asada tacos are bringing the taste of California tacos to dinner. Easy marinade, quick cooking and super tasty!
How to Make the Best Carne Asada Tacos
Carne asada tacos are a California classic that brings vibrant, bold flavors to your dinner table. The magic starts with a simple but powerful marinade that combines soy sauce, pineapple juice, lime, and just a hint of cayenne pepper. This combination tenderizes the steak while infusing it with a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes.
What makes these tacos so special is their incredible versatility and speed. Once your steak has marinated (overnight is ideal, but even 4 hours makes a difference), you can have dinner on the table in minutes. The quick sear creates a delicious caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender, especially when you remember to slice against the grain.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a cast iron skillet indoors, these carne asada tacos deliver authentic flavors that taste like they came straight from a California taco stand. Top them with your favorite fixings—fresh cilantro, onion, lime, or a dollop of crema—and enjoy a meal that’s both simple to make and absolutely delicious.
Carne Asada Tacos
Savory with bright acidity and just the right amount of heat, carne asada tacos are bringing the taste of California tacos to dinner. Easy marinade, quick cooking and super tasty!
Ingredients
Carne Asada Marinade
For Serving
Instructions
Prepare
- Lay the flank or skirt steak flat on a cutting board. Cut into 1 to 2 inch strips with the grain of the meat (so the lines in the protein run long).
Marinate
- In a ziplock bag or storage container, add the soy sauce, pineapple juice, lime juice, cayenne pepper and flank steak.
- Marinate overnight or at least a minimum of 4 hours.
Cook
- Remove the steak from the marinade. Heat the grill, grill pan, or cast iron skillet over high heat.
- Once hot, sear the steak pieces about 4 to 5 minutes each side.
- Remove from the heat and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting. Slice into thin strips.
Assemble
- In a small skillet, warm the tortilla over medium heat, top with cheese and cover with a lid.
- Heat for 1 to 2 minutes until cheese is melted and tortilla is just slightly crispy.
- Top with your favorite taco toppings and serve!
Notes
- The key to tender carne asada is cutting against the grain when serving.
- Marinating overnight yields the best flavor, but 4 hours minimum is acceptable.
- Use a hot cooking surface for a good sear and caramelization.