Carne Asada Street Style Tacos: 7 Flavorful Secrets Unveiled

Name: Carne Asada Street Style Tacos: 7 Flavorful Secrets Unveiled
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 small corn tortillas; 1 cup chopped cilantro; 1 cup diced onions; 1 lime, cut into wedges

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Let me tell you, carne asada street style tacos are a flavor explosion you just can’t resist! The combination of perfectly grilled beef, soft tortillas, and fresh toppings makes these tacos the ultimate crowd-pleaser. I can’t help but think of those warm summer nights spent at food trucks, where the smell of sizzling meat fills the air and my mouth waters in anticipation. Or those family gatherings where everyone gathers around the grill, sharing stories and laughter while assembling their own tacos. Trust me, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively get-together, these carne asada street style tacos will steal the show!

Ingredients List

To whip up these delicious carne asada street style tacos, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor! Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

1 lb flank steak (the star of the show, make sure it’s nice and fresh!)
2 tbsp olive oil (for marinating and adding richness)
2 tsp cumin (this spice adds a warm, earthy flavor)
2 tsp chili powder (for that perfect kick!)
1 tsp garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
1 tsp onion powder (adds depth and sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
8 small corn tortillas (the perfect vehicle for all that tasty beef)
1 cup chopped cilantro (for that fresh, zesty touch)
1 cup diced onions (adds crunch and flavor)
1 lime, cut into wedges (to squeeze over the top for brightness)

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to taco heaven! Don’t forget, the quality of your ingredients really matters, especially with the steak. Go for the best you can find, and you’ll taste the difference!

How to Prepare Carne Asada Street Style Tacos

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these carne asada street style tacos! The process is pretty straightforward, and I promise you it’s worth every step. Just follow along, and you’ll be flipping tacos like a pro in no time!

Marinating the Steak

The secret to juicy, flavorful carne asada is all in the marinade! Start by placing your flank steak in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Drizzle in the olive oil, then sprinkle on the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Now, here’s the fun part: rub those spices all over the steak until it’s completely coated. Don’t be afraid to get your hands messy! You’ll want to let this marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, go for a couple of hours or even overnight in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the more flavor will develop!

Grilling the Steak

Once your steak has marinated beautifully, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat—this is crucial for getting those gorgeous grill marks and sealing in the juices. When the grill is nice and hot, lay the flank steak down carefully. Grill it for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on your desired doneness. I usually aim for medium-rare, which is around 135°F (57°C). Use a meat thermometer to check if you’re unsure! After grilling, let the steak rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite tender and juicy.

Assembling the Tacos

Now comes the best part: assembling those mouthwatering tacos! While the steak is resting, warm your small corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. This makes them pliable and enhances their flavor. Once warmed, take a tortilla and place a generous amount of sliced steak in the center. Top it off with a handful of chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of diced onions for that fresh crunch. And don’t forget the lime wedges on the side—squeezing a bit of lime juice over your tacos takes them to the next level! Repeat this for all your tortillas, and voila! You’ve got yourself a batch of delicious carne asada street style tacos ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success

Alright, friends! Let’s make sure your carne asada street style tacos turn out absolutely perfect every single time. Here are some of my best tips and tricks to elevate your taco game:

Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning! If you like it spicier, add a pinch more chili powder or toss in some cayenne. If you’re a garlic lover like me, go ahead and throw in extra garlic powder.
Cooking methods: If you don’t have a grill, no worries! You can easily cook the flank steak in a skillet over medium-high heat or even broil it in the oven. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Marinating time: While 30 minutes is great, if you can let the steak marinate for a few hours or overnight, you’ll be rewarded with even more flavor. Just make sure to cover it well in the fridge!
Choosing the right cut: Flank steak is fantastic, but you can also use skirt steak or sirloin for a slightly different texture and flavor. Each cut brings its own magic!
Fresh toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Besides cilantro and onions, consider adding sliced radishes for crunch, avocado for creaminess, or even pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.
Warm your tortillas: Always warm your tortillas! It makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor. You can even wrap them in a clean kitchen towel after warming to keep them warm while you assemble the tacos.
Leftover love: If you find yourself with leftover steak, it’s perfect for tacos the next day or even in a burrito, salad, or quesadilla. Just reheat and enjoy!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with mouthwatering carne asada street style tacos. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Full of vibrant flavors that transport you straight to a bustling taco stand.
Versatile—customize with your favorite toppings or serve alongside different sides.
Grilling gives the steak a delicious smoky flavor that you just can’t beat.
Great for sharing—everyone loves building their own tacos to suit their taste!
Leftovers are fantastic—enjoy them in burritos, salads, or even on their own.
A crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress at barbecues, parties, or family dinners.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying carne asada street style tacos, knowing the nutritional information can help you savor them even more! Here’s a rough estimate of the typical values for each serving, which is about 2 tacos:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg
Sugar: 1g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keep in mind, these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use, but this gives you a solid idea of what you’re working with. So, go ahead and enjoy your tacos guilt-free!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Absolutely! While flank steak is my go-to for carne asada due to its rich flavor and tenderness, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin. Skirt steak has a slightly more pronounced beefy flavor and is super juicy, while sirloin is a bit leaner and still tasty. Just keep in mind that each cut will bring its own unique texture and taste to your tacos, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy! Simply place any leftover carne asada in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To keep tortillas fresh, I recommend wrapping them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy again, just reheat the steak in a skillet over low heat to warm it through, and warm the tortillas again on the grill or in a pan. This way, you’ll have delicious tacos ready to go without losing any flavor!

What toppings can I add?

The sky’s the limit when it comes to toppings for your carne asada street style tacos! Besides the classic cilantro and onions, you can jazz them up with sliced radishes for a little crunch, creamy avocado or guacamole for richness, and even pickled jalapeños if you’re looking for a spicy kick. Don’t forget about fresh salsa or pico de gallo for that burst of freshness! You can even get creative with cheese or a drizzle of crema for extra indulgence. Customize them to your heart’s content!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your carne asada street style tacos ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to create a truly festive meal! The right sides and drinks can elevate your taco experience to new heights. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This flavorful grilled corn, slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime, is a must-have. It’s sweet, spicy, and the perfect complement to your tacos!
Refried Beans: A side of creamy refried beans adds heartiness to your meal. You can serve them either warm or at room temperature, and they pair beautifully with the flavors of carne asada.
Guacamole and Chips: You can’t go wrong with fresh guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips. The creaminess of the avocado balances the savory beef, making every bite delightful.
Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds a refreshing crunch. It’s light, zesty, and perfect for topping your tacos or enjoying with chips!
Rice: Cilantro-lime rice or a classic Mexican rice can round out the meal and provide a nice base to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Drinks: For drinks, consider serving some classic Mexican beverages like horchata or agua fresca. If you’re in the mood for something stronger, a cold cerveza or a margarita always pairs wonderfully with tacos!

With these sides and drinks, your carne asada street style taco feast will be an unforgettable experience. So gather your friends and family, dig in, and enjoy the vibrant flavors together!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.