This Easy Blackstone Carne Asada recipe brings bold, smoky flavors to your backyard grill. Made with a zesty citrus marinade and cooked on a Blackstone griddle for a perfect char, this carne asada is juicy, tender, and packed with authentic Mexican flavor. Whether served in tacos, burritos, or over rice, it’s a must-try dish for any grill enthusiast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – The Blackstone griddle cooks carne asada fast, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
Bold, Authentic Flavor – A citrusy marinade with garlic, cumin, and chili powder infuses the meat with rich taste.
Versatile – Serve it in tacos, burritos, bowls, or even on a salad.
Charred to Perfection – The Blackstone griddle gives the steak a delicious sear while keeping it juicy inside.
Perfect for Gatherings – This recipe is great for feeding a crowd at barbecues or taco nights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Flank steak or skirt steak
Orange juice
Lime juice
Soy sauce
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Cilantro, chopped
Ground cumin
Chili powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Optional: Jalapeño, sliced (for extra heat)

Directions

Marinate the Steak – In a bowl or zip-top bag, mix orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the steak and marinate for at least 1 hour (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
Preheat the Blackstone Griddle – Set to high heat (around 450°F) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
Cook the Carne Asada – Remove the steak from the marinade and let excess liquid drip off. Place it on the griddle and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until it reaches your desired doneness.
Rest the Steak – Transfer the meat to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to lock in juices.
Slice and Serve – Cut the carne asada into thin strips against the grain and serve with your favorite sides or in tacos.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 1-8 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including marination)

Variations

Spicy Version – Add extra chili powder or cayenne pepper for more heat.
Citrus Twist – Swap orange juice for pineapple juice for a sweet, tropical touch.
Keto-Friendly – Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos and serve with low-carb sides.
Grill Alternative – If you don’t have a Blackstone, cook on an outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
Tex-Mex Style – Serve with grilled onions and bell peppers for a fajita-style twist.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing – Freeze marinated (uncooked) or cooked carne asada for up to 3 months.
Reheating – Warm on the Blackstone or in a pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of meat for carne asada?

Flank steak and skirt steak are traditional choices due to their tenderness and ability to absorb marinades well.

Can I use a regular pan instead of a Blackstone griddle?

Yes! A cast-iron skillet over high heat works well to achieve a similar sear.

How do I know when carne asada is done?

For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 130-135°F; for medium, aim for 140-145°F.

Should I marinate overnight?

Yes, if possible! A longer marinade time (6-8 hours) enhances flavor and tenderness.

Can I make carne asada without soy sauce?

Yes, substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos or Worcestershire sauce for a different depth of flavor.

What’s the secret to tender carne asada?

Cutting against the grain into thin strips ensures tenderness, along with proper marination.

What sides go well with carne asada?

Mexican rice, refried beans, grilled veggies, guacamole, or warm tortillas pair perfectly.

Can I cook carne asada from frozen?

It’s best to thaw before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper searing.

How do I make it more authentic?

Use freshly squeezed citrus juice, add Mexican oregano, and grill over an open flame for a true street-style taste.

Is carne asada gluten-free?

Most ingredients are gluten-free, but use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it fully gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Easy Blackstone Carne Asada is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, juicy, and flavorful steak. Whether served in tacos, burritos, or as a main dish, it’s a simple yet delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Fire up your Blackstone griddle and enjoy restaurant-quality carne asada right at home!