If you’re looking to bring bold, authentic Mexican flavor to your grill, this Mexican Carne Asada Marinade is the perfect place to start. Packed with fresh citrus juice, garlic, herbs, and classic spices, this marinade transforms simple beef into tender, juicy, smoky perfection.
Perfect for tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or simply sliced and served with grilled vegetables, this recipe is ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
⏱ Prep Time
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Marinating Time: 2–8 hours (overnight for best flavor)
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Cook Time: 8–12 minutes
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Total Time: About 30 minutes (plus marinating)
🍴 Equipment
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Large mixing bowl
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Whisk or fork
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Measuring cups & spoons
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Zip-top bag or shallow dish
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Grill or grill pan
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Tongs
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Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
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Sharp knife for slicing
🥩 Ingredients
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1½ to 2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
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¼ cup olive oil
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¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
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¼ cup fresh orange juice
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional for heat)
📝 Ingredient Notes
Flank vs. Skirt Steak:
Both work beautifully. Skirt steak has more intense beef flavor, while flank steak slices neatly and is slightly leaner.
Fresh Citrus is Key:
Fresh lime and orange juice give the marinade its authentic brightness. Bottled juice won’t provide the same flavor.
Cilantro:
Fresh cilantro adds classic Mexican flavor. If you’re not a fan, reduce the amount slightly rather than omitting completely.
Spice Level:
Adjust jalapeño and chili powder based on your heat preference.
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in jalapeño if using.
2️⃣ Marinate the Steak
Place steak in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the meat, ensuring it is fully coated.
Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 6–8 hours.
3️⃣ Preheat the Grill
Heat grill to medium-high (about 400–450°F / 200–230°C). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
4️⃣ Grill the Steak
Remove steak from marinade and let excess drip off.
Grill for:
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3–5 minutes per side for medium-rare
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5–6 minutes per side for medium
Internal temperature guide:
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130–135°F for medium-rare
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140–145°F for medium
5️⃣ Rest and Slice
Let the steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
🍽 Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
(Based on 6 servings)
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Calories: 310
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Protein: 28g
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Fat: 21g
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Carbohydrates: 4g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 420mg
Values may vary depending on cut of meat and portion size.
🔥 Tips for the Best Carne Asada
✔ Don’t skip the resting time — it keeps the juices inside the meat.
✔ Always slice against the grain for tenderness.
✔ Don’t over-marinate beyond 24 hours (citrus can break down the texture too much).
✔ Bring steak to room temperature for 20–30 minutes before grilling.
🌮 Variations
🌶 Spicy Version
Add 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or ½ teaspoon cayenne.
🍺 Beer Marinade Twist
Replace orange juice with ¼ cup Mexican lager for a deeper flavor.
🌿 Herb Upgrade
Add fresh oregano for a more traditional Mexican profile.
🥑 Serving Ideas
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Carne asada tacos with fresh salsa
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Burrito bowls with rice and black beans
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Loaded nachos
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Stuffed quesadillas
