Crockpot Carne Asada is a simple, flavorful, and tender dish that brings the bold, smoky flavors of classic carne asada right to your dinner table. This easy slow-cooker recipe uses beef flank steak or skirt steak, marinated in a zesty citrus and spice blend, then cooked low and slow to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth, juicy result. Serve it with tortillas, tacos, or as a topping for salads—this versatile recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crockpot Carne Asada is a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that brings deliciously rich flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooking process tenderizes the meat, infusing it with the vibrant, tangy flavors of lime, orange, garlic, and a blend of spices. It’s an incredibly versatile dish that works for tacos, burritos, bowls, or simply served with rice and veggies. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in a Crockpot, freeing you up to focus on other parts of the meal. Whether you’re hosting a fiesta or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this carne asada will not disappoint!
Ingredients
-
2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak (you can also use sirloin if preferred)
-
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
-
1/4 cup orange juice (about 1 orange)
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 teaspoon chili powder
-
1 teaspoon cumin
-
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
-
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
-
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
-
1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional, for added flavor)
-
1/4 cup beef broth (optional, for added moisture)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Carne Asada:
-
Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Place the steak in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Cook in the Crockpot:
-
Set Up the Crockpot: After marinating the meat, transfer the steak to the Crockpot. Add the sliced onion (if using) and pour the marinade over the top. If you prefer, you can add 1/4 cup beef broth for additional moisture during cooking, but it’s optional.
-
Cook the Carne Asada: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Shred the Carne Asada:
-
Shred the Meat: Once the carne asada is cooked, remove the steak from the Crockpot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded carne asada to the Crockpot to soak up any remaining juices.
Serve:
-
Serve and Garnish: Serve the carne asada hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. You can enjoy it in tacos, burritos, over rice, or as part of a salad.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 6-8
-
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
-
Cook time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
-
Total time: 6-8 hours
Variations
-
Spicy Carne Asada: Add a sliced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the Crockpot for some extra heat, or use hot sauce in the marinade for an added kick.
-
Add Veggies: Throw in some bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes along with the carne asada to make a complete one-pot meal.
-
Citrus Twist: Swap the orange juice for pineapple juice for a slightly different citrusy flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave or reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep the meat moist.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
While flank steak and skirt steak are the traditional cuts for carne asada, you can also use other cuts like sirloin or even chuck roast. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary, and you may need to adjust based on the cut you choose.
Can I make this recipe without a Crockpot?
Yes! You can also cook this carne asada on the stovetop or in the oven. For stovetop cooking, sear the steak in a hot pan for 4-5 minutes per side, then simmer in the marinade on low heat for 30-40 minutes, until the meat is tender. In the oven, cook it covered in a baking dish at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5-2 hours, or until tender.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, carne asada actually tastes better the next day! You can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving for an even more flavorful meal.
Can I add a marinade overnight if I’m in a hurry?
Yes, you can marinate the carne asada for just 30 minutes or even 1 hour, but for the best flavor, I recommend marinating it overnight.
How do I know when the carne asada is ready?
The carne asada is ready when it’s tender enough to shred with a fork. If the meat is tough, continue cooking it until it reaches the desired tenderness.
Conclusion
Crockpot Carne Asada is a flavorful and easy dish that brings the delicious taste of Mexican-inspired cuisine to your table with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb the tangy, spicy marinade, making it incredibly tender and full of flavor. Whether you’re using it for tacos, burritos, or simply serving it with rice and veggies, this carne asada is sure to be a hit at any meal. It’s a perfect go-to recipe for busy nights or when you’re craving something comforting and tasty!
