When it comes to cooking speedy, delicious meals that bring restaurant-quality flavors right to your table, few dishes hit the mark like carne asada tacos. Inspired by a popular recipe from The Stay At Home Chef, this version is designed specifically for busy weeknights—ready in just about 35 minutes without the need for long marinating times. Whether you’re a taco lover or just want a satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare, these carne asada tacos deliver bold flavors and tender steak every time.
Why These Weeknight Carne Asada Tacos Are a Game-Changer
Traditional carne asada recipes often require hours of marinating to tenderize and infuse the meat with flavor. But this quick take skips the lengthy soak. Instead, a vibrant citrus and garlic marinade is brushed directly on the steak while it cooks, locking in juiciness and flavor without the wait.
Using skirt or flank steak, known for their rich taste and texture, ensures that each bite is tender and satisfying—especially when sliced correctly against the grain to avoid chewiness. This recipe is perfect for anyone craving tacos but short on time, with flexibility to cook on a grill or stovetop skillet.
Essential Ingredients for the Marinade and Tacos
To whip up these tacos, gather the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 12 corn tortillas
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup diced red or white onions
- 1 cup pico de gallo (optional but highly recommended!)
Step-by-Step: Making Weeknight Carne Asada Tacos
1. Prepare the Marinade
Start by combining the citrus juices, oil, garlic, vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk everything quickly to blend the flavors together.
2. Brush the Marinade on the Steak
Instead of marinating the steak for hours, brush the marinade generously on both sides of your skirt or flank steak. This method keeps the process speedy while still delivering a punch of flavor.
3. Preheat and Cook the Steak
If you have a grill, preheat it to a blazing 500°F—this high heat is key to getting that perfect sear. Don’t have a grill or prefer to stay indoors? A hot cast iron skillet on the stove works just as well.
Place the steak on the hot surface and cook for 7 to 10 minutes per side, brushing more marinade over the steak as it cooks to keep it juicy and flavorful. Be sure to cook off the marinade on the surface to avoid any cross contamination.
4. Slice Against the Grain
Once cooked, remove the steak and let it rest briefly. Then slice it against the grain. This means cutting perpendicular to the natural lines running through the meat. Doing so breaks down muscle fibers and guarantees tender bites, perfect for tacos.
5. Assemble the Tacos
Warm your corn tortillas, then load them up with the sliced or chopped carne asada. Top with freshly chopped cilantro, diced onions, and a spoonful of pico de gallo for an authentic flavor boost. These simple toppings elevate the steak and add freshness and crunch.
Tips for Taco Night Success
- Grain Awareness: Understanding the grain in your steak is essential. Always slice against it for tender results.
- High Heat Cooking: Whether grilling or using a skillet, keep the cooking surface very hot to get a nice sear and lock in juices.
- Keep It Simple: The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—no complicated steps or long marinating. Just brush, cook, slice, and serve.
Enjoy a Restaurant-Quality Meal at Home
These weeknight carne asada tacos are a fantastic way to bring bold, authentic flavors to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re ideal for busy weeknights, taco nights, or any time you want a quick, satisfying meal that feels special.
With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking technique, you can master this recipe and impress family and friends alike. Plus, it’s a perfect example of how cooking can be both fun and efficient, yielding delicious results every time.
Ready to dive in? Gather your ingredients, heat up your grill or skillet, and enjoy the magic of these carne asada tacos tonight. Bon appétit!
This article was created from the video Weeknight Carne Asada Tacos with the help of AI.
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