Name: Carne Asada Street Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds flank or skirt steak; ¼ cup lime juice; ¼ cup orange juice; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 12 small corn tortillas; ½ cup chopped white onion (for topping); ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for topping); Lime wedges (for serving)

Tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, Carne Asada Street Tacos are the kind of meal that turns a regular weeknight into something worth celebrating. These tacos are a love letter to bold Mexican flavors—savory grilled steak sliced thin, topped with freshly chopped onions and cilantro, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Simple yet spectacular.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something satisfying and quick, these tacos deliver every time. The smoky char from the grill, the burst of lime, and the crunch of fresh toppings make each bite unforgettable. Plus, they’re completely customizable with your favorite salsas and sides.

Why You’ll Love This Carne Asada Street Tacos

Quick to prepare: Once the steak is marinated, cooking and assembling the tacos takes under 30 minutes.
Authentic flavor: A well-balanced marinade gives the meat that classic carne asada tang with a hint of smokiness.
Fresh and vibrant: With minimal ingredients, the freshness of cilantro, lime, and onion shines through.
Perfect for entertaining: A build-your-own taco setup makes these a hit at casual dinners and gatherings.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Grill or Cast Iron Skillet: The key to achieving that iconic char and sear on the steak.
Sharp Knife: For slicing the carne asada thinly across the grain, which ensures tenderness.
Cutting Board: To safely prep your toppings and slice your grilled meat.
Mixing Bowl: For making the marinade.
Tongs: To easily flip the meat on the grill without losing any juices.
Tortilla Warmer or Pan: Keeping tortillas warm enhances texture and prevents tearing during assembly.

These tools make the process efficient and enjoyable, while also ensuring your tacos turn out just right.

Ingredients for the Carne Asada Street Tacos

Flank or Skirt Steak – This cut is perfect for grilling and absorbs marinade well.
Lime Juice – Adds bright acidity that tenderizes the steak and boosts flavor.
Orange Juice – Offers sweetness and balances the tangy citrus base.
Soy Sauce – Brings umami depth and saltiness to the marinade.
Garlic Cloves – Essential for savory depth.
Cilantro – Fresh and citrusy, it complements the grilled meat beautifully.
Onions – Chopped raw for topping; they add sharp crunch.
Corn Tortillas – Classic and sturdy enough to hold all the goodness.
Salt & Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance the beef.
Olive Oil – Helps the steak sear properly and contributes richness.

How To Make the Carne Asada Street Tacos

Step 1: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, and salt and pepper. Whisk together until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Steak

Place the flank or skirt steak in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, seal, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Steak

Heat a grill or cast iron skillet over high heat. Grill the steak for about 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until you get a nice char and the inside is medium-rare to medium.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes after grilling. Slice thinly across the grain to keep the meat tender.

Step 5: Warm the Tortillas

Use a dry skillet or tortilla warmer to heat the corn tortillas until soft and pliable.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos

Layer slices of carne asada onto the tortillas. Top with chopped onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Add salsa if desired.

Serving and Storing These Tacos

Serve these carne asada tacos hot off the grill for best flavor. Pair them with sides like Mexican street corn, rice, or beans. If you’re prepping for a crowd, keep the meat warm in a low oven and let guests assemble their own tacos for a fun taco bar experience.

Leftover carne asada can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—just slice and portion before freezing. Reheat gently to preserve tenderness.