Air Fryer Carne Asada

If you are looking for a way to spice up dinner time, try this delicious carne asada recipe.

This simple air fryer carne asada uses only 7 ingredients and takes just 10 minutes to cook.

Plus, it's packed with flavor and versatile enough that you can use it in tacos, in bowls, or even stir-fries. It's an excellent source of protein that is low in fat making it an excellent dinner option when you want something healthy but are pressed for time.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

Air frying is an excellent way to cook carne asada because it's quick, easy, and healthy. Plus it gives you delicious and tender steak each and every time.

Air frying is a quick and convenient cooking method that can save you time in the kitchen. Carne asada typically takes a while to marinate and grill, but with the air fryer, you can have it ready to eat in just a fraction of the time.

Also, compared to traditional frying or grilling methods, air frying is a healthier way to cook carne asada because it requires little to no oil. This means you can enjoy the flavor and texture of fried meat without the added fat and calories.

Additionally, the circulating hot air in an air fryer ensures that the carne asada is cooked evenly on all sides, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Ingredients

Steak: 

The best kind of steak to use in this air fryer carne asada recipe is a flank steak or a skirt steak. This is because it is lean and tenderizes better and faster than thicker cuts.

Seasonings:

Technically you can use any kind of seasonings you like to air fry your steak. However, carne asada is traditionally seasoned with garlic, cumin, and chili powder.

Lime Juice:

The most important part of the marinade is the lime juice because its acidity is what tenderizes the meat. If you don't have limes on hand, you can use any type of citrus that you do have. Lemon, orange, and grapefruit juices all work just as well in a marinade.

How to Make Air Fryer Carne Asada

Step One:

Combine spices together in a bowl.

Step Two: 

Add the lime juice to your seasonings, then coat the steak with the mixture. Let marinate for 30 minutes.

Step Three: 

Place the steak in your air fryer basket and coat it with non-stick cooking spray.

Step Four:

Cook for 10 minutes at 350F.

Step Five: 

Serve with fresh tortillas and pico de gallo. Enjoy!

Tips

• Make your own tortilla by combining 2 cups of flour and ½ a teaspoon of salt. Create a well in the center and ¾ cup of water and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. stir until a rough dough forms then knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes then divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a thin, round tortilla shape. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and once hot, place a tortilla in it and cook for 30-60 seconds on each side, until lightly browned and puffy.
• Serve your carne asada with some fresh pico de gallo. In a bowl, combine 2 diced tomatoes, ½ of a finely chopped onion, ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adding diced jalapeno, chopped avocado, pineapple, or mango is optional.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Carne Asada

Carne Asada is a traditional Mexican dish that is typically served on a tortilla, with some fresh salsa as a carne asada taco. This air fryer carne asada can also be used to create burrito bowls, beef up your nachos, or make a hearty chili con carne even heartier.

Looking for more? Here are 20 carne asada side dishes you can choose from.

FAQs

How long can air fryer carne asada leftovers be stored?

Cooked flank steak leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap.

What is the best way to reheat air fryer carne asada leftovers?

Reheating air fryer carne asada in the air fryer may cause it to become overcooked and tough. That's why it's best to do so in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to help keep the meat tender.

Which cut of steak is the best to use with this air fryer carne asada recipe?

The best cut of meat to use for carne asada is typically flank steak or skirt steak, as these cuts are lean and have a pronounced beefy flavor that works well with the bright, acidic marinade used in this air fryer carne asada recipe.

Should I use fresh or frozen steak?

Fresh steak is generally the best choice when making air fryer carne asada. This is because fresh steak will have a better texture and flavor than frozen steak when cooked in the air fryer.

Frozen steak tends to release more moisture during cooking, which can result in a less crispy exterior and a drier interior. However, if frozen steak is all you have on hand, simply make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

More Steak Recipes

If you loved how easy it was to incorporate steak into your meal with this air fryer carne asada recipe, then you will love these additional steak recipes that make it simple to have steak any night of the week.

Philly Cheesesteak

Beef And Broccoli

Instant Pot Carne Asada

Carne Asada Burrito