Name: Crockpot Carne Asada
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 lb flank steak; ½ cup orange juice; ¼ cup lime juice; 4 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup chopped cilantro; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 medium onion, sliced

Hey y'all! If you're craving a mouthwatering dinner with minimal effort, this Crockpot Carne Asada is your new best friend. Tender strips of beef bathe in zesty citrus, garlic, and spices, then slow cook until they're bursting with authentic flavor you usually only get from the grill. Whether you're hosting Taco Tuesday, prepping meals for the week, or just want a hands-off dinner, this foolproof recipe is a must. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Carne Asada

Super easy—just prep, dump, and let your slow cooker do the work.
Beef turns out fall-apart tender and loaded with punchy, bright flavors.
Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, nachos, salads, or meal prepping.
Hands-off, set-and-forget style makes it great for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Adjust the level of spice to suit your taste buds.

Ingredients for Crockpot Carne Asada

2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
⅓ cup fresh lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
¼ cup orange juice
¼ cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
1 medium onion, sliced

How to Make Crockpot Carne Asada

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, soy sauce, Worcestershire, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Place steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour marinade over, and turn to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Scatter sliced onions on the bottom of your crockpot. Remove steak from marinade and shake off excess liquid (but don't discard the marinade). Lay steak over the onions and pour the reserved marinade on top.

Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork. For maximum juiciness, avoid overcooking.

Step 4: Slice, Shred, and Serve

Remove the steak from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice thinly across the grain or shred with two forks, then return meat to juices in the crockpot to soak up even more flavor before serving.

Notes & Tips for Crockpot Carne Asada

Cut steak into large pieces if needed to fit in your slow cooker.
You can sear the steak in a hot skillet before slow cooking for an extra layer of flavor and caramelization (here's why).
Be sure to slice against the grain for the tenderest bites.

Variations on Crockpot Carne Asada

Spicy Version: Add an extra jalapeño or chipotle pepper to the marinade.
Citrus-Herb Carne Asada: Add fresh orange zest and swap cilantro for chopped parsley.
Low-Sodium: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and reduce additional salt.

Equipment Needed for Crockpot Carne Asada

Large slow cooker or crockpot (5-6 quart recommended)
Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board
Tongs or forks for shredding
Resealable plastic bag (for marinating)

How to Store Crockpot Carne Asada (Shelf Life)

Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags (with some juices) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently for best results.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Crockpot Carne Asada

Serve in warm corn or flour tortillas with pico de gallo, avocado, and crumbly cotija cheese.
Build burrito bowls with rice, beans, grilled veggies, and fresh salsa.
Try topping nachos or a hearty salad with leftovers for a delicious lunch.
Pair with a light Mexican beer or tangy margarita for the full fiesta vibe!

Pro Tips to Nail Your Crockpot Carne Asada

Pat steak dry before searing for a superior crust (detailed guide here).
Don't skip the marinade—at least 1 hour is key for flavor infusion.
Use a digital thermometer to avoid overcooking; 195°F is ideal for shredding.