Crock Pot Carne Asada: 5-Minute Prep for Tasty Tacos

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Crock Pot Carne Asada is my go-to recipe for an effortless and flavorful dinner. This dish combines smoky spices and bright citrus flavors, creating a succulent shredded steak that’s perfect for taco night. With only five minutes of prep, it transforms into a mouthwatering meal after a long day. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring that every bite is tender and juicy. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Carne Asada

This Crock Pot Carne Asada will become a staple in your kitchen for several reasons. First, it’s a slow cooker carne asada that requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it boasts a beef carne asada recipe that’s bursting with flavor thanks to its zesty marinade. Third, this carne asada in a crockpot delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat, thanks to the slow cooking method. Fourth, it’s gluten-free, catering to dietary needs while still being delicious. Fifth, you can use the leftovers for crockpot beef fajitas recipe the next day. Finally, it’s incredibly versatile; enjoy it in tacos, burritos, or even salads!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Carne Asada

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 to 1½ teaspoons salt (or to taste)
¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
2 pounds flank steak
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cumin powder
½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 lime (juiced)
4 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon dried oregano
chopped cilantro (for serving)

How to Make Crock Pot Carne Asada Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sear the steak. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the flank steak dry and season it with salt and pepper. Sear the steak, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the steak to your crockpot.
Step 2: Blend the sauce. Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, orange juice, lime juice, garlic, and oregano to a small blender. Blend until well combined.
Step 3: Combine and cook. Pour the sauce over the meat. Cover and cook the flank steak on the LOW setting for 8 hours.
Step 4: Shred. Once the flank steak is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. Return it to the crock pot and toss the meat with the leftover juices.
Step 5: Serve. Serve the carne asada warm with tortillas, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro.

Crock Pot Carne Asada: 5-Minute Prep for Tasty Tacos - Crock Pot Carne Asada - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Carne Asada

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the marinade to enhance flavor.
Let the meat rest before shredding to lock in juices.
Consider marinating the steak overnight for an even deeper flavor.
This recipe is best cooked using a slow cooker for tender results.

Best Ways to Serve Crock Pot Carne Asada

There are endless ways to enjoy this flavorful dish! Serve your easy crockpot carne asada in warm corn tortillas with fresh toppings like chopped onions, cilantro, and avocado. You can also use it for crockpot carne asada tacos for a fun twist. For a heartier meal, pile it onto a bed of rice or serve it alongside beans and grilled vegetables.

Crock Pot Carne Asada: 5-Minute Prep for Tasty Tacos - Crock Pot Carne Asada - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Crock Pot Carne Asada

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze the carne asada for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. This makes for a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Carne Asada

What’s the secret to perfect Crock Pot Carne Asada?

The secret lies in marinating the meat properly and allowing it to cook slowly. This ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply, creating a tender and juicy dish. Using a good cut of beef, like flank steak, is also essential!

Can I make Crock Pot Carne Asada ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and let it marinate in the fridge. Just place it in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready by dinner time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crock Pot Carne Asada?

Ensure the meat is well-seasoned and seared before adding it to the slow cooker. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as it releases heat and can affect cooking time. Always allow the meat to rest for a few minutes before shredding.

Variations of Crock Pot Carne Asada You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the marinade. You can also make a carne asada burrito by wrapping the meat in a large tortilla with rice and beans. For a lighter option, serve the shredded beef over a salad with fresh veggies. Enjoy the versatility of this authentic carne asada slow cooker recipe!

For more delicious recipes, check out Crockpot Chicken Piccata or Creamy Parmesan Italian Beef. If you’re interested in more Mexican-inspired dishes, you might enjoy Mexican Mazapan Sweet Peanut as well!