Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe

If you crave a steak bursting with vibrant flavors and tender juiciness, this Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It takes simple ingredients you likely have on hand and transforms thinly sliced flank steak into a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for lively get-togethers or a cozy family dinner. The marinade’s balance of citrus, garlic, and spices infuses the meat with a bright, smoky, and savory profile that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe really lies in its simple yet thoughtfully combined ingredients. Each component lends a unique touch—whether it’s the fresh acidity, aromatic herbs, or subtle heat—that amplifies the steak’s natural flavors beautifully.

• 2 pounds thinly sliced flank steak: This cut is perfect for quick grilling and soaks up the marinade beautifully for tenderness.
• 2 limes (juiced): Fresh lime juice adds bright acidity to tenderize the meat and enliven the dish.
• ½ cup pineapple juice (or fresh orange juice): Provides natural sweetness and enzymes that help break down meat fibers for juicy results.
• 4 cloves garlic (crushed): Adds a deep, savory punch that complements grilled steak superbly.
• 1 cup cilantro (chopped): Fresh cilantro brings an herbaceous, slightly citrusy lift to the marinade.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: For a gentle heat and depth that balances the spices.
• ½ cup olive oil: Helps distribute the marinade evenly and keeps the steak moist during grilling.
• 2 jalapeños (seeded and minced): Adds a mild kick without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar: Introduces a tangy brightness that sharpens the marinade.
• ½ cup chopped white onion: Brings a sweet and slightly sharp note that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano: Delivers a robust, earthy tone that’s a classic in traditional carne asada.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Imparts a warm, smoky undertone that rounds out the spices perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon Maggi jugo (or soy sauce and a splash of Worcestershire sauce): Adds a savory umami kick that deepens the flavor complexity.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: Gives a gentle heat and color, tying the marinade together with subtle spice.

How to Make Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

Begin by placing your thinly sliced flank steak in a glass dish with a lid or a large ziplock bag—this keeps the meat contained and ready to soak up all those incredible flavors.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a bowl, combine all the remaining ingredients. Take a moment to appreciate how the fresh lime, tangy pineapple juice, fragrant garlic, and zesty spices come together—this is where the magic starts! Stir thoroughly to create a harmonious blend.

Step 3: Marinate the Meat

Pour the marinade over your steak, tossing well to ensure every piece is lovingly coated. Seal your dish or bag and place it in the refrigerator. For the tastiest results, let it marinate for 4 hours. If you’re in a pinch, 2 hours minimum will still work, but no longer than 6 hours or the acids may start to break down the meat too much.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

When you’re ready to cook, remove the steak from the marinade and bring your grill up to a high temperature. A hot grill is key to creating those beautiful sear marks and locking in flavor.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Place the steak directly on the grill and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side if you like it medium-rare, or 3 to 4 minutes if you prefer it well done. Remember, flank steak is thin, so quick cooking preserves moisture and tenderness. For thicker cuts, adjust grilling time accordingly.

Step 6: Rest the Steak

Once grilled, wrap the meat in foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. This little pause lets the juices redistribute evenly, making every bite juicy and flavorful—trust me, do not skip this step!

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique helps break up the muscle fibers and ensures your cuts are tender and easy to enjoy in tacos, burritos, or over rice and beans.

How to Serve Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes enhance your grilled steak wonderfully. Brighten each serving with chopped cilantro, diced white onion, a squeeze of lime juice, and maybe even some sliced radishes or fresh avocado slices. These toppings add color, texture, and a refreshing contrast to the smoky meat.

Side Dishes

Perfect sides for this Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe include classic Mexican staples like warm corn tortillas, cilantro-lime rice, and refried or black beans. Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as peppers and onions, also complement the meal beautifully by adding subtle sweetness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress? Serve your carne asada steak chopped up in soft tacos with a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce or build a hearty burrito bowl layered with guacamole, salsa, and your favorite pickled jalapeños. For casual gatherings, a platter of steak strips alongside vibrant pico de gallo and freshly made tortillas invites everyone to assemble their own flavorful bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the sliced steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it properly sealed helps preserve that fresh grilled flavor while preventing dryness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover carne asada steak for up to 2 months. Place the sliced meat in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently to keep the steak from drying out. Warm slices in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or beef broth, or microwave briefly covered with a damp paper towel. This helps maintain moisture and tenderness without overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While flank steak is preferred for its tenderness and quick cooking time, skirt steak or sirloin also work well. Just adjust grilling times based on the thickness and cut to avoid overcooking.

How long should I marinate the steak?

The ideal marinating time for this Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe is about 4 hours. Two hours is the minimum, and you shouldn’t exceed 6 hours as the acidity can start to break down the meat too much.

What can I substitute for Maggi jugo if I don’t have it?

If you don’t have Maggi jugo, a mix of soy sauce and a hearty splash of Worcestershire sauce makes an excellent substitute, adding the necessary umami and depth.

Can I grill the steak indoors?

Yes, if outdoor grilling isn’t an option, a grill pan on the stove or a broiler can work wonders. Just make sure it’s very hot to get that seared exterior the recipe calls for.

How do I get tender meat with this marinade?

The combination of citrus juice, pineapple (or orange) juice, and vinegar in the marinade contains natural enzymes and acids that help tenderize the flank steak, especially with the recommended marinating time. Plus, slicing against the grain ensures ultimate tenderness.

Final Thoughts

This Easy and Delicious Carne Asada Marinade and Grilled Steak Recipe is truly a celebration of bold, fresh flavors and simple techniques that deliver incredible results every time. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this dish will win hearts and fill plates. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your own kitchen!

Print