Name: Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 jalapeño pepper seeded and minced; 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons); 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1/3 cup olive oil; juice of 1 orange (about 1/4 cup of juice); juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons of juice); 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more for grilling; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ancho chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper plus more for grilling; 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak, excess fat removed; 16 corn tortillas, warmed (or flour tortillas); 1/2 medium onion, finely diced; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese; lime wedges, for serving; other optional toppings: guacamole, pico de gallo, toasted red chile salsa

If you’re craving bold, authentic Mexican flavors with a delightful crunch, you’ve got to try this Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe. It’s all about perfectly grilled steak wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with fresh, vibrant ingredients that will make your taste buds dance.

The image shows five yellow corn tortillas on a large white plate with small brown speckles, each topped with three layers: a base of mashed green guacamole with a chunky texture, scattered pieces of grilled steak cut into small cubes with a brown outer edge and pink center, and a sprinkling of white diced onions and fresh green cilantro leaves. There are also several lime wedges on the plate, adding a bright green accent. A small white bowl filled with more mashed guacamole sits on the plate with a silver spoon inside it. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart — it’s my go-to when I want taco night to feel like a fiesta. The marinade brings such lively, smoky, and spicy notes that your grill can’t help but take center stage.

Flavor-packed marinade: A vibrant combo of jalapeño, garlic, and citrus juices punches up the steak with authentic Mexican flair.
Perfectly grilled steak: Achieving that crispy, slightly charred exterior while keeping tender juiciness inside is easier than you think.
Fresh, classic toppings: Diced onions, cilantro, cotija cheese, and lime add the perfect balance of brightness and texture.
Customizable and fun: Add guacamole, pico de gallo, or a smoky red chile salsa for a personal touch every time.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Choosing the right ingredients for these tacos is key to nailing that authentic taste. Look for fresh, quality produce and a good cut of meat like flank or skirt steak, which soak up the marinade beautifully and grill to tender perfection.

Flat lay of a whole fresh jalapeño pepper, several peeled garlic cloves, a small bunch of bright green cilantro sprigs, a small white ceramic bowl with golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl filled with freshly squeezed orange juice, a small white ceramic bowl with fresh lime juice, a small white ceramic bowl holding clear white wine vinegar, a small heap of reddish chili powder, a small pile of coarse kosher salt crystals, a small mound of ground cumin powder, a small pile of dried oregano leaves, a small heap of deep red ancho chili powder, a small white ceramic bowl with freshly ground black pepper, a raw flank steak with trimmed excess fat, a stack of fresh yellow corn tortillas, a small white ceramic bowl of finely diced white onion, a small white ceramic bowl of chopped fresh cilantro leaves, a small white ceramic bowl with crumbled white cotija cheese, and several fresh lime wedges arranged artfully, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Jalapeño pepper: Adds just the right heat without overwhelming, and it blends smoothly into the marinade flavor profile.
Garlic: Essential for depth in the marinade, minced finely so it infuses every bite.
Chopped cilantro: Both in the marinade and as a topping, it brings bright, herbaceous freshness.
Olive oil: Helps carry the flavors and keeps the meat juicy on the grill.
Orange and lime juices: The citrus juices tenderize the steak while adding tangy brightness.
White wine vinegar: Adds acidity to balance rich flavors and enhance complexity.
Chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, ancho chili powder: A harmonious blend of spices that build authentic warmth and smokiness.
Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning both the marinade and the steak on the grill.
Flank steak or skirt steak: Ideal cuts for carne asada—flavorful, tender when sliced right, and perfect for grilling.
Corn or flour tortillas: Warmed for pliability, they’re the perfect vessel to hold all those delicious fillings.
Diced onion & chopped cilantro: Classic taco toppings that add crunch and herbaceous notes with each bite.
Cotija cheese: Salty and crumbly, it adds a rich, creamy contrast to the grilled meat.
Lime wedges: A quick squeeze brings everything to life with zesty brightness.
Additional toppings (optional): Guacamole, pico de gallo, or toasted red chile salsa for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts about this Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste and occasion. Whether you want to dial up the heat, experiment with toppings, or adapt it for dietary preferences, the possibilities are deliciously endless!

Mild and Family-Friendly: If you're serving little ones or prefer less spice, skip the jalapeño or leave in the seeds for less heat. I’ve made this variation many times, and the flavor stays bright and fresh without overwhelming heat.
Vegetarian Twist: Swap the flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu to enjoy the vibrant marinade flavors without the meat. The smoky char from the grill really elevates these options.
Seasonal Toppings: During summer, I love adding fresh grilled corn or mango salsa on top for a sweet and smoky combo. In cooler months, warm roasted peppers make a comforting addition.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the corn tortillas with crisp lettuce cups or low-carb wraps. You still get that satisfying charred carne asada flavor, perfect for a lighter meal.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

Three tacos are placed side by side on a dark gray plate lined with white paper, all on a white marbled surface. Each taco has three layers: the bottom layer is a warm yellow corn tortilla with a soft, slightly rough texture; the middle layer is a creamy green guacamole spread evenly across; the top layer shows small chunks of grilled beef that are dark brown with a bit of pink inside, sprinkled with finely chopped white onions and green cilantro leaves, and small bits of white cheese. A wedge of bright green lime sits behind the tacos on the plate. A white bowl filled with green chopped cilantro is partly visible in the upper left corner. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Whisk Up the Flavor-Packed Marinade

Start by mixing together the jalapeño, garlic, cilantro, olive oil, fresh orange and lime juices, white wine vinegar, and all the spices in a medium bowl. Whisk everything until it’s beautifully blended—a vibrant, fragrant marinade ready to infuse your steak with authentic Mexican flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak for Maximum Flavor

Place your flank or skirt steak in a large baking dish or seal it in a gallon-size ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over, then turn the steak multiple times to coat it fully. Pop it in the fridge for 2 to 4 hours—long enough for those flavors to soak in without breaking down the meat. Don’t go beyond 8 hours or the steak will turn mushy because of the citrus acids.

Step 3: Prep the Steak for Grilling

When you’re ready to cook, remove the steak from the marinade and discard the extra liquid. Pat the meat dry with paper towels—this helps develop a nice sear. Drizzle both sides lightly with olive oil and season with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper for that perfect grill crust.

Step 4: Grill to Juicy Perfection

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high, aiming for 400-450°F. Cook the steak with the lid closed to trap heat and develop a delicious char. Grill skirt steak for about 4 minutes per side; flank steak needs a bit longer at 6 to 8 minutes per side. Keep an eye on thickness and use an instant-read meat thermometer if you want precise doneness.

Step 5: Let It Rest and Slice Boldly

Once off the grill, let your steak rest for 5 minutes. This step is key to keeping those flavorful juices locked in. Then, slice into bite-sized chunks—perfectly sized so every taco bite is flavorful and tender.

Step 6: Assemble Your Crispy Carne Asada Tacos

Warm your tortillas until pliable, then mound on the grilled carne asada chunks. Top generously with diced onions, chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, and a fresh squeeze of lime juice to brighten every bite. For an extra touch, set out guacamole, pico de gallo, or toasted red chile salsa for guests to customize to their heart’s desire.

Top Tip

Mastering the Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is all about attention to detail, and these tips will help you get every element just right for a delicious outcome.

Marinate Just Right: Keep your steak in the marinade between 2 to 4 hours for the best flavor and texture; going beyond 8 hours risks a mushy steak because of the acidic citrus juices.
Pat Dry Before Grilling: Always dry your steak thoroughly after marinating. This helps build a beautiful sear for that signature crispy edges and tasty caramelization.
Keep Tortillas Warm: Wrap warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel and tuck them inside a large zip-top bag to hold heat and keep them pliable—no cracking or breaking when you fold your tacos!
Rest Your Steak: Never skip the 5-minute resting period after grilling—this keeps all those flavorful juices locked in so each bite is tender and juicy.

How to Serve Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe

A grilled steak is shown on a wooden cutting board with clear grill marks on its dark brown surface. The steak is sliced into several long pieces on the left side, revealing a pink center indicating it is cooked medium. To the right, many small cubes of steak are neatly arranged next to a large knife with a wooden handle. The scene is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Keep it fresh and bright! Diced onions, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese are classic garnishes that bring balance and texture to your tacos. Don’t forget a generous squeeze of lime juice—it brightens every bite. For extra flair, add guacamole, pico de gallo, or that toasted red chile salsa to kick up the flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve your Crispy Carne Asada Tacos alongside Mexican street corn (elote), a fresh cabbage slaw, or a simple black bean and corn salad. These sides complement the smoky, citrusy steak and keep the meal well-rounded and satisfying.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover carne asada steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tortillas, toppings, and cheese separate to maintain freshness and texture when reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked, sliced carne asada for up to 2 months. Lay the slices flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain the steak’s texture and juiciness. Avoid microwaving directly as it can dry out the meat. Warm your tortillas wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for about 20 seconds just before assembling.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank and skirt steak are traditional for carne asada due to their flavor and quick cooking time, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just adjust grilling times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

How do I get crispy edges on my carne asada?

Patting the steak dry before grilling and cooking over medium-high heat helps create those delicious charred, crispy edges. Avoid moving the steak too much while it grills so it can sear properly.

Can I make the marinade in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just whisk again before using to recombine the ingredients.

What’s the best way to warm tortillas for tacos?

Warm tortillas in a tortilla warmer, or wrap them in a clean kitchen towel and place inside a zip-top bag to keep them soft and pliable. You can also warm them directly on the grill for a few seconds each side for a slight char.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Carne Asada Tacos Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it. The vibrant marinade, the perfect char from the grill, and simple fresh toppings come together to create a taco that’s truly memorable. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout with friends, these tacos bring warmth, flavor, and joy straight to the table. Happy grilling and buen provecho!