How to Make Carne Asada Marinade Recipe

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Carne Asada Marinade Recipe – Authentic Mexican Grilled Steak

Carne Asada is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. This authentic Mexican carne asada marinade infuses beef with bold citrus flavors, smoky spices, and fresh herbs, creating the perfect grilled steak for tacos, burritos, or a festive backyard cookout. If you’re looking for the best Mexican steak marinade recipe, this guide will help you grill like a pro.

Why This Carne Asada Marinade Works

  • Citrus Base: Orange, lime, and lemon juice tenderize the beef while adding tangy brightness.
  • Smoky Spices: Chili powder, cumin, paprika, and chipotle create that signature grilled flavor.
  • Herbal Freshness: Cilantro and oregano add layers of authentic Mexican taste.
  • Perfect for Grilling: This marinade keeps flank steak juicy, tender, and flavorful on the grill.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

  • ¾ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
  • ½ cup lemon juice
  • ⅓ cup lime juice
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chipotle pepper (canned, chopped)
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Carne Asada

  • 3 pounds flank steak

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Marinade

In a large non-metal mixing bowl, whisk together the citrus juices, soy sauce, cilantro, garlic, spices, chipotle, and oregano. Slowly whisk in the olive oil until the marinade is smooth and fragrant.

2. Reserve a Portion

Set aside 1 cup of the marinade in a separate container. Refrigerate this to use later as a flavorful drizzle for serving.

3. Prepare the Steak

Pound the flank steak with a meat mallet until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Gently prick the surface with a fork to allow maximum flavor absorption.

4. Marinate Overnight

Place the steak into the marinade, coating thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, ideally 24, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the beef.

5. Grill the Steak

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Remove the steak from the marinade (discard what’s left) and grill for about 5 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.

6. Slice and Serve

Let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Drizzle with the reserved marinade for an extra burst of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled carne asada steak pairs beautifully with:

  • Warm flour or corn tortillas for tacos or burritos
  • Fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, or salsa verde
  • Grilled vegetables such as peppers, onions, and zucchini
  • Classic sides like Mexican rice or refried beans

Pro Tips for the Best Carne Asada

  • Always marinate for at least 12 hours for the best flavor.
  • Use a cast-iron skillet if you don’t have access to a grill.
  • Slice thin and against the grain to ensure tender bites.

Final Thoughts

This authentic carne asada marinade recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, smoky, and citrusy flavors. Perfect for Mexican grilling recipes, taco nights, or family gatherings, it transforms a simple flank steak into a restaurant-quality dish.

Whether you serve it in tacos, burritos, or as a main dish with sides, this Mexican carne asada steak is guaranteed to impress.