Savory Carne Asada Tacos with Creamy Aji Amarillo Sauce

Oh, carne asada tacos… they just hit different, right? I mean, there’s something magical about the way the smoky, charred beef pairs with all those fresh toppings, making each bite a burst of flavors. And don’t even get me started on the creamy aji amarillo sauce! Honestly, every time I make these, the whole house fills with this amazing aroma, and it’s impossible not to get excited. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be right there with me, craving these beauties over and over.

Why You’ll Crave It

• First off, that grilled steak is just so juicy and tender, you’ll find yourself dreaming about it.
• The aji amarillo crema adds the perfect kick—creamy, spicy… it’s truly the icing on the taco.
• It’s super easy to whip up for a crowd—just grill, slice, and serve!
• Fresh toppings like cilantro and onions just elevate it all, making it colorful and vibrant.
• They’re kind of customizable too—add your own twist, and boom, you’ve got a new favorite!

The first time I made this, my whole family was gathered, and let me tell you, there were no leftovers. We just couldn’t resist!

What You’ll Need

• 1 ½ lbs flank steak: tender and perfect for marinating, this is the star of the show!
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: because garlic makes everything better, right?
• 1/4 cup lime juice: fresh and zesty for that kick.
• 1/4 cup orange juice: adds a slight sweetness that balances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon cumin and 1 teaspoon paprika: for that warm, earthy flavor.
• Salt and pepper: don’t forget to season well!
• For the aji amarillo crema: 1/2 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
• Corn tortillas: these are the best for holding all that goodness.
• Fresh cilantro and diced onions: classic toppings that bring everything together.
• Lime wedges: squeeze them on for extra brightness!

Easy How-To

Marinate and Prep

Okay, so first things first—let’s marinate that steak. Grab a bowl and mix lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, oh, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Now, add your flank steak and let that soak up all those flavors—minimum 30 minutes is good, but if you have a bit more time, overnight is even better… trust me.

Good to Know

• If flank steak isn’t your thing, skirt steak or even sirloin works great too!
• Aji amarillo paste can be a bit tricky to find, but check out Latino markets or online—you don’t want to skip this step!
• And, hey, if you prefer flour tortillas? Sure, go for it! Whatever makes your taco night special.

Serving Ideas

• These tacos are best enjoyed fresh off the grill with a side of chips and salsa—don’t forget the cold drinks!

Top Tricks

• Let the steak rest a few minutes after grilling before slicing—this keeps it juicy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of meat is best for carne asada?

Flank steak or skirt steak are the go-to choices. They’re flavorful and super tender when marinated well.

How long should I marinate the meat?

At least one hour, but overnight is even better… the flavors just deepen and it’s so worth it!

Can I make carne asada ahead of time?

Totally! Marinate ahead, then grill just before serving for that fresh-off-the-grill taste. Always a crowd-pleaser!

What can I serve with carne asada tacos?

You can stick with the classics like diced onions and cilantro, maybe some salsa, and of course, that aji amarillo crema for that kick.

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So, there you have it—your new favorite carne asada tacos recipe! They’re easy, flavorful, and sure to be a hit with everyone. Get your grill ready, and let’s make some delicious memories!