Crockpot Carne Asada Tacos - Hearty Food Ideas
Today, I'm thrilled to share my take on Crockpot carne asada tacos. Don’t you just love a recipe that almost cooks itself while you go about your day?
This dish transforms humble ingredients into a feast that brings friends and family together. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I enjoy bringing wholesome, uncomplicated meals to the table. Trust me; once you try this dish, you’ll want to put it on repeat.
We know that tacos bring out smiles and laughter. But what distinguishes this recipe is the tender, marinated meat that practically melts in your mouth, thanks to the slow cooking process.
And let’s not forget about customizing the toppings; you’re in control here!
Servings 6
Calories 601kcal
Ingredients
Flank Steak Marinade
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, finely minced or grated
- 1 tablespoon smoky chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked sweet paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried onion flakes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 and zest juice of fresh lime
- 1/2 cup Mexican lager beer
- kosher salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon wildflower honey
- 2 pounds skirt steak
For Serving:
- Warmed corn or flour tortillas
- Shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce
- Fresh jalapeños
- Sliced avocado
- Pickled red onions
- Crumbled feta cheese
Mexican-Style Fries
- 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 4 large potatoes, cut into ¼-inch thick matchsticks
- kosher salt, to taste
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cilantro Garlic Lime Crema
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1-2 garlic cloves, finely grated
- 1 and zest juice of lime
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Start by whisking together all the marinade ingredients. Combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, onion flakes, cumin, lime zest, lime juice, beer, salt, and honey. This mixture will infuse the steak with amazing flavors.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak
- Place the skirt steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the meat is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight for even better results.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Steak
- Once it's time to cook, remove the steak from the marinade and place it in your crockpot. Pour any remaining marinade into the pot over the steak. Set your crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours.
Step 4: Prepare the Mexican-Style Fries
- While the steak is cooking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss your cut potatoes in a bowl with olive oil, chili powder, salt, garlic powder, coriander, and smoked paprika. Spread the fries evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Step 5: Shred the Meat
- When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the steak from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. It should pull apart easily.
Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
- Grab your warmed tortillas. Layer the shredded carne asada, followed by toppings like shredded lettuce, jalapeño slices, avocado, pickled onions, and feta cheese.
Step 7: Make the Cilantro Garlic Lime Crema
- In a small bowl, mix together the cilantro, green onions, garlic, lime zest, lime juice, honey, and Greek yogurt or sour cream. This zesty crema will add a creamy finish to each bite of taco.
Notes
- Marinate Longer: If timing allows, marinate your steak overnight. It results in deeper flavors.
- Meat Alternatives: If you want to switch it up, consider using chicken or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Add Spice: For an added kick, consider tossing in a few diced habaneros into your marinade. Just be mindful of heat levels!
- Warm Tortillas: Always warm your tortillas before serving. This can be done in a skillet or wrapped in foil and warmed in the oven.
- Build Flavor: Create a flavor station with toppings. Let guests customize their own tacos.