20-Minute Air Fryer Carne Asada
This Mexican-inspired flank steak features a vibrant marinade of lime and orange juices, garlic, and warm spices that penetrate the meat during a quick refrigerated rest. The air fryer creates a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy. Perfect for taco night, meal prep, or casual entertaining, this version delivers authentic carne asada flavors in just minutes. The citrus marinade tenderizes the meat while cumin and chili powder add earthy depth. Slice thin against the grain and serve with warm tortillas and your favorite Mexican sides.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup lime juice
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- salt, to taste(optional)
- pepper, to taste(optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine minced garlic, lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create marinade
- 2
Place steak in resealable bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over, ensuring well-coated, then refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours
- 3
Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes
- 4
Remove steak from marinade, letting excess drip off, then place in air fryer basket in single layer
- 5
Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until steak reaches desired doneness
- 6
Remove steak and let rest for 5 minutes
- 7
Slice steak thinly against the grain and serve
Tips
Let the steak come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before air frying to ensure even cooking
For best results, pound the flank steak to 1/2 inch thickness before marinating to help tenderize and reduce cooking time
Save some of the marinade before adding raw meat to use as a finishing sauce after cooking
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked sliced steak for up to 3 days in airtight container
Marinate steak up to 24 hours ahead for deeper flavor
Serve immediately after slicing with warm tortillas, salsa, guacamole, and grilled vegetables
Common Mistakes
Don't skip the resting period to avoid dry, tough meat
Slice against the grain to avoid chewy texture
Don't overcook past medium to maintain tenderness
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, skirt steak works equally well and cooks in similar time. Sirloin flap or tri-tip can also work but may need adjusted cooking times.
What if I don't have an air fryer?
Grill over high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or use a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for similar results.
How long does the cooked steak keep?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, cooked carne asada will keep for 3-4 days and can be reheated gently or used cold in salads.