Crock Pot Carne Asada Tacos

This slow-cooked Carne Asada transforms humble flank steak into tender, flavorful meat perfect for authentic street tacos. The blend of spices infuses the beef while it cooks effortlessly in your crock pot, creating that unmistakable Mexican flavor profile that makes street tacos so irresistible.

I first made these tacos for a casual backyard gathering, and they disappeared faster than any other dish I've served. Now they're our family's Friday night tradition, with everyone customizing their own taco creations.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon Olive oil: gives the meat a beautiful sear and helps the spices adhere
• 3 lbs flank steak: ideal cut for slow cooking that shreds perfectly when done
• 1/2 white onion chopped: adds subtle sweetness and traditional texture
• 1 cup beef broth: creates steam for tenderizing and prevents the meat from drying out
• 1 bundle cilantro chopped: essential for authentic Mexican flavor profile
• 1 teaspoon salt: enhances all the other flavors in the dish
• 1 teaspoon pepper: adds gentle heat and depth
• 2 teaspoon minced garlic: provides aromatic foundation for Mexican flavors
• 1 tablespoon chili powder: adds rich color and mild heat
• 1 teaspoon paprika: contributes smoky sweetness and vibrant color
• 1 teaspoon cumin: gives that distinctive earthy Mexican flavor
• 2 fresh limes juiced: brightens the rich meat with essential acidity
• 1/4 cup butter: creates irresistibly soft tortillas with rich flavor
• 24 mini corn tortillas: traditional choice for authentic street tacos with perfect chew

Step-by-Step Instructions

Layer the Base:

Place your flank steak in the crock pot and massage the olive oil onto all surfaces. This creates a barrier that locks in moisture and gives the spices something to cling to during the long cooking process.

Create the Spice Rub:

Thoroughly mix together garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper and cumin in a small bowl until completely incorporated. Apply this mixture generously over every inch of the steak, pressing gently to adhere. This spice blend will slowly release flavor as the meat cooks.

Add Fresh Elements:

Squeeze one lime over the seasoned meat, then scatter the freshly chopped cilantro and diced onions across the top. Pour beef broth around the sides of the steak. The liquid should not cover the meat but create a flavorful steam bath.

Slow Cook to Perfection:

Cover the crock pot and set to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You'll know it's done when the meat easily pulls apart with forks. The longer cooking time allows the connective tissues to break down completely.

Shred and Finish:

Using two forks, pull the cooked beef apart into tender shreds directly in the crock pot. Squeeze the remaining lime juice over the meat and gently toss to incorporate all the cooking juices and flavors.

Prepare the Tortillas:

Heat butter in a large skillet until melted and bubbling slightly. Place corn tortillas in the butter and cook for about 1 minute until they become soft and pliable with small golden spots. This butter-frying step creates incredible flavor.

Assemble Your Tacos:

Stack two mini tortillas together as the base for each taco. The double-layer creates authentic street taco sturdiness. Top with generous portions of the shredded beef and add your preferred toppings.

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My family's absolute favorite part of this recipe is the butter-fried tortillas. The first time I tried this technique instead of just warming them, my husband declared they were better than our favorite taco truck. That small change made all the difference in creating restaurant-quality tacos at home.

Make-Ahead Options

This Carne Asada is perfect for meal prep. The cooked and shredded beef can be refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container. For best results, store the meat in its cooking juices to prevent it from drying out. When ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. The flavors actually intensify after a day or two, making leftovers something to look forward to.

Perfect Toppings Bar

Create a spectacular taco bar by offering multiple topping options beyond the basics. Try diced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, thinly sliced radishes for crunch, pickled red onions for tang, and fresh lime wedges. For heat lovers, offer both a mild salsa verde and a spicier hot sauce. The beauty of street tacos is their customizability, so providing options lets everyone create their perfect bite.

Authentic Serving Suggestion

For a truly authentic street taco experience, serve these on small plates or in wax paper with simple garnishes. Traditional Mexican street vendors typically offer just cilantro, diced onion, and lime wedges as toppings, letting the flavorful meat shine. Include small bowls of salsa on the side rather than pouring it on top. Complete the meal with Mexican rice, refried beans, and ice-cold Mexican beer or horchata for a complete feast.

Variation Ideas

While this recipe creates perfect traditional carne asada, you can easily customize it. For a spicier version, add 1-2 chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the crock pot. For a sweeter profile, include a tablespoon of orange juice along with the lime juice. If you prefer a smokier flavor, increase the cumin to 2 teaspoons and add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika in place of regular paprika.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can substitute flank steak with skirt steak or sirloin for similar results. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat the beef on a stovetop or microwave before serving.

→ Can I make this without a crock pot?

Yes, you can cook the beef in a Dutch oven or heavy pot on low heat on the stovetop or in the oven. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ What toppings work best for these tacos?

Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, sliced radishes, crumbled cotija cheese, or a squeeze of lime for authentic flavor. Add your favorite toppings like guacamole or salsa for a personal touch.

→ Can I make the tortillas ahead of time?

While the tortillas are best served fresh, you can fry them ahead and reheat briefly on a skillet before assembling the tacos.