Name: Carne Asada Street Tacos
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb skirt steak (or flank steak); 3 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1/4 cup orange juice; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jalapeño, minced (optional); 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 8 corn tortillas; 1/2 cup white onion, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Lime wedges, for serving

There’s something undeniably magical about Carne Asada Street Tacos. The first time I bit into one from a roadside stand in Southern California, I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. The smoky, charred beef tucked into soft corn tortillas, topped simply with chopped onions and fresh cilantro — it’s a celebration of bold flavors in the most humble way. I love how just a few quality ingredients can create something so incredibly satisfying.

What makes these tacos stand out is the deeply marinated carne asada. I let the beef soak up citrus, garlic, and spice before searing it quickly to lock in all that flavor. Whether you’re making these for Taco Tuesday, a game day spread, or a casual backyard gathering, these street-style tacos never disappoint. They’re quick to put together and even quicker to disappear.

Why You’ll Love This Carne Asada Street Tacos Recipe

These tacos are a must for anyone who craves real-deal flavor without the fuss. They strike that perfect balance between savory, juicy meat and bright, fresh toppings. Because the marinade does most of the work, you get restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. And since they’re customizable, everyone can make their plate just how they like it.

What Cut of Beef Should I Use for Carne Asada?

The best cut for carne asada is flank steak or skirt steak. Both cuts are known for their bold, beefy flavor and quick-cooking nature. I personally lean toward skirt steak because it has a looser grain that soaks up marinade like a sponge. Just remember to slice it thinly across the grain — it makes all the difference in tenderness.

Options for Substitutions

No skirt steak? No problem. Flank steak, flap meat, or even thinly sliced sirloin will do the trick. Want to make it a bit leaner? Try using trimmed chicken thighs for a pollo asado twist. For a vegetarian version, grilled portobello mushrooms or seitan hold up beautifully with the same marinade. And if corn tortillas aren’t your thing, swap in flour tortillas or lettuce wraps.

Ingredients for Carne Asada Street Tacos

Skirt Steak (or Flank Steak): This is the star of the show. It’s flavorful, tender when sliced properly, and grills beautifully. The marinade enhances its natural richness.
Fresh Lime Juice: Essential for that citrusy punch in the marinade. It tenderizes the meat and brightens the flavor.
Orange Juice: Adds sweetness and helps balance the acidity of the lime.
Soy Sauce: Gives depth and umami to the marinade. It also acts as a salt substitute.
Garlic (Minced): Fresh garlic is key to building bold flavor in the marinade.
Jalapeño (Optional): Adds a touch of heat if you like a little kick.
Olive Oil: Helps emulsify the marinade and prevents sticking on the grill.
Cumin and Chili Powder: These spices bring earthy warmth and a subtle smokiness to the meat.
Corn Tortillas: Authentic and slightly nutty, these are the perfect vessel for street tacos.
White Onion (Chopped): Raw and sharp, the onion contrasts beautifully with the richness of the meat.
Fresh Cilantro (Chopped): Bright and herby, a classic topping for balance and freshness.
Lime Wedges: For squeezing over the tacos just before eating — a final zing of brightness.

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, and optional jalapeño. Add the skirt steak and massage the marinade into the meat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill or Skillet

When ready to cook, heat a grill or cast iron skillet over high heat. You want it hot to achieve a good sear. If using a skillet, add a bit of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off the excess. Grill for 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the exterior is charred and the inside is medium-rare to medium. Let the meat rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking.

Step 4: Slice the Meat

Slice the steak thinly against the grain. This is crucial to ensure tender bites. Shorter strips or chopped pieces work best for easy taco filling.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

While the steak is resting, warm the corn tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet until soft and slightly charred. Keep them warm in a clean towel.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Place a generous portion of sliced carne asada on each tortilla. Top with chopped white onions and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

These tacos are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, while the meat is juicy and the tortillas are warm. Have extra toppings like salsa, avocado, or hot sauce on the table for guests to customize.

How Long to Prepare Carne Asada Street Tacos

Marinating Time: The most crucial part of this recipe is marinating the meat. While a quick 1–2 hour soak can work in a pinch, I highly recommend letting the steak marinate overnight (8–12 hours) to absorb all the citrus, garlic, and spice flavors.

Cooking + Assembly Time: Once marinated, the actual cooking is fast. Grilling the steak takes about 6–10 minutes total, depending on the thickness. While the meat rests, you can warm your tortillas. Assembling the tacos takes another 5–10 minutes. Altogether, the hands-on time is around 25–30 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Carne Asada Street Tacos

Use fresh citrus juice – Bottled lime juice doesn’t have the same brightness.
Marinate long enough – Aim for overnight marination when possible.
Don’t overcook the steak – Medium-rare to medium keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
Slice against the grain – This ensures tenderness in every bite.
Char your tortillas slightly – It adds depth and keeps them from breaking apart.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the resting period after grilling. The juices need to redistribute.
Overcrowding the grill or pan which can steam the meat instead of searing it.
Using cold meat straight from the fridge – Let it sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes before grilling.
Using low heat – High heat is necessary for the right sear and flavor.
Overloading the tortillas – Keep fillings light for that classic street taco experience.

What to Serve With Carne Asada Street Tacos?

1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)

Grilled corn slathered in mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime is a perfect match.

2. Refried Beans or Charro Beans

Creamy or brothy beans make a hearty, protein-packed side.

3. Spanish Rice

Fluffy rice flavored with tomato, garlic, and spices complements the tacos beautifully.

4. Chips and Salsa

Keep it classic with a bowl of tortilla chips and your favorite salsa — from pico de gallo to roasted tomatillo.

5. Fresh Guacamole

Rich, creamy, and tangy, guacamole is always a taco-night essential.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover carne asada in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the tortillas, toppings, and meat separate to maintain texture and flavor. Reheat the meat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Freezer: You can freeze the cooked carne asada (without toppings) for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pan or microwave.

Tortilla Tips: Tortillas can be refrigerated in a sealed bag for up to a week. Reheat them on a dry skillet to restore pliability.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Taco)

Calories: 210
Protein: 17g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 310mg

(Note: Nutrition varies based on portion size and specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have a grill?

A cast iron skillet or grill pan works just as well. Just make sure it’s hot enough to sear the meat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the steak a day ahead and even grill it a few hours in advance. Just slice before serving and warm gently.

What if I don’t eat beef?

Try chicken thighs, portobello mushrooms, or even tofu. The marinade works great across proteins.

Are these tacos gluten-free?

Yes — just make sure your corn tortillas and soy sauce are certified gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just be sure to grill the meat in batches so you don’t overcrowd your pan or grill.

Conclusion

Carne Asada Street Tacos bring everything you love about Mexican street food right to your kitchen — bold flavors, juicy grilled steak, and vibrant toppings all wrapped in warm tortillas. Whether you’re cooking for a party or a quiet night in, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy authentic street tacos anytime the craving hits.