Carne Asada Recipe (Authentic, Flavorful and Easy!)

If you’ve been craving a juicy, flavorful grilled steak with bold Latin flavors, this Carne Asada recipe is about to become your new favorite! Made with a citrusy marinade and grilled to perfection, this traditional Mexican-inspired dish is both easy to make and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re planning a summer cookout or building the perfect taco, this grilled carne asada recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own backyard.

What is carne asada?

Carne asada translates to “grilled meat” in Spanish and typically refers to flank steak or skirt steak marinated in citrus and spices, then cooked over high heat. It’s a staple in Latin American cuisine, especially in Mexican and Central American households, often served in tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or with grilled veggies.

What makes authentic carne asada stand out is the marinade. A flavorful blend of citrus juices, garlic, olive oil, and spices that tenderizes the meat and adds a delicious smoky, charred flavor when grilled.

💡 For a non-traditional yet so good, tender, juicy and hand’s off carne asada alternative, try my Slow Cooker Carne Asada variation. The leftovers are the best!

Ingredients

This carne asada recipe is based on my Latin roots and uses a simple but vibrant marinade with fresh citrus and spices you probably already have at home.

• 2 lbs flank steak (or skirt steak, see notes)
• Juice of 1 lemon, 1 lime, and 1 orange
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos (or soy sauce)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cumin 

Shortcut: substitute the dry spices/ seasoning with 2 tbsp carne asada seasoning blend.

Tip: If using skirt steak, reduce grill time to 2–3 minutes per side since it’s thinner and cooks much faster than flank steak.

How to cook carne asada

The secret to juicy, flavorful carne asada is high-heat grilling for a perfect sear and caramelization. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Marinate the Steak

• Combine the citrus juices, olive oil, coconut aminos (or soy sauce), and spices in a platter or baking dish, large enough to hold the meat.
• Add the steak, making sure it’s fully coated in the marinade.
• Marinate for at least 2 hours for the best flavor.

2. Preheat the Grill

• Heat your grill to high heat (around 500°F).
• Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

3. Grill the Steak

• Remove steak from marinade and pat dry slightly (this helps sear).
• Grill flank steak for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare.
• If using skirt steak, grill for just 2–3 minutes per side.

4. Rest and Slice

• Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
• Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Variations and substitutions

No grill? You can cook carne asada in a cast-iron skillet or on a grill pan over medium-high heat. You can also cook carne asada in the air fryer or indoor grill, which has been one of my favorite investments.

Low-sodium option? Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a healthier swap.

Want it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños to the marinade.

Tips for the best carne asada

✓ Don’t skip the citrus. The combo of lemon, lime, and orange juice helps tenderize the meat and add a burst of brightness.

✓ Use high heat. A hot grill gives you that classic carne asada char and smoky flavor.

✓ Rest the meat. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping the steak juicy.

✓ Slice against the grain. This breaks up the muscle fibers and keeps the meat tender.

What to serve with carne asada

Looking for what to serve with carne asada? Here are a few reader-favorite pairings:

• Warm tortillas – corn, flour or these homemade yuca tortillas
• Grilled or roasted vegetables – the perfect side to balance this high protein meal
• Cilantro-lime rice or Mexican rice – can’t go wrong with either options
• Avocado slices or guacamole – simply irresistible
• Black beans or refried beans – a must on Latin table

Related recipes to try:

Grilled Ribeye with Baked Potato – this timeless combination is a must try!

Brazilian Steak Kabobs – or “espetinho de carne” another classic Brazilian BBQ recipe.

Churrasco Steak with Veggies – Latin flavors at it’s best!

Sheet Pan Fajitas – chicken sausage fajitas for an easy dinner loaded with flavor!

Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner, taco night, or summer party, this Carne Asada recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s a flavorful, juicy steak that’s easy to prepare and bursting with Latin flavor—no fancy ingredients, just simple goodness.