If you’re craving a vibrant, tender, and flavor-packed meal that comes together effortlessly, this Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine juicy flank steak infused with bold spices and zesty citrus, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot for juicy, melt-in-your-mouth results. Whether you’re looking to impress at a casual dinner or whip up a quick weeknight feast, this recipe combines convenience and incredible taste in a way that turns simple ingredients into a fiesta of flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple but uses each ingredient to maximum effect, layering flavors and textures that make the carne asada truly sing. The spices provide warmth and complexity, the citrus brightens everything up, and fresh herbs add that unmistakable punch of vibrant color and freshness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
- Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and depth.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Brings smoky warmth to the spice rub.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a savory backbone that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy, nutty tones essential for authentic Mexican flavor.
- Flank steak (2 pounds): The star of the dish, wonderfully flavorful and perfect for quick pressure cooking.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Used to brown the steak, locking in juiciness and adding a beautiful crust.
- Low-sodium beef broth (½ cup): Provides moisture and a savory base for cooking.
- Lime juice (¼ cup): Brightens the marinade with fresh citrusy zing.
- Orange juice (¼ cup): Adds a hint of sweetness and balances out the spice — see notes for keto options.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Peppery and pungent, garlic is a must-have for that authentic aroma and bite.
- Fresh cilantro (½ cup, chopped): Adds herbaceous freshness layered into the marinade and finished on top.
- Onion slices (½ packed cup): Imparts mild sweetness and rounds out the marinade’s flavor.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): For garnishing, giving every bite a pop of green vibrancy.
- Prepared chimichurri sauce (optional): A classic partner that boosts the dish with herby, tangy goodness.
How to Make Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Rub
Start by mixing together your salt, pepper, chili powder, onion powder, and cumin in a small bowl. This blend is the secret to infusing your flank steak with that signature carne asada flavor. Taking the time to rub these spices deeply into the steak ensures every bite bursts with seasoning.
Step 2: Season the Flank Steak
Generously sprinkle and rub the spice rub all over both sides of the flank steak. Make sure you massage the spices into the meat well — this step helps the flavors penetrate during cooking and sets the stage for that perfect crust later on.
Step 3: Brown the Steak in the Instant Pot
Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté setting and heat up the olive oil. If your flank steak is too large, cut it against the grain into two sizable pieces so it fits comfortably. Brown the steak pieces for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side to achieve a gorgeous caramelized outer layer that locks in juices and adds savory complexity.
Step 4: Add the Marinade Ingredients
Once browned, pour in the beef broth, lime juice, orange juice, and minced garlic. These liquids not only add moisture needed for pressure cooking but also infuse the meat with bright, tangy flavors that balance those warm spices perfectly.
Step 5: Add Fresh Herbs and Onions, Then Pressure Cook
Top the steak with chopped cilantro and onion slices before securing the Instant Pot lid. Set it to Manual High Pressure for 20 minutes. This cook time results in well-done steak that remains tender and juicy. Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before venting and carefully opening the lid.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Transfer the steak to a cutting board and slice it thinly against the grain, at a diagonal. This technique keeps the steak tender in every forkful. Top with additional fresh cilantro if you like, then get ready to serve this delicious Instant Pot Carne Asada recipe!
How to Serve Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro immediately brightens this dish with bursts of herbal flavor and vibrant green color. If you want to take things up a notch, spoon some tangy chimichurri sauce on top—it’s a classic that pairs beautifully with the rich, juicy steak.
Side Dishes
This carne asada shines alongside a variety of sides. Think fluffy Mexican rice, charred street corn with a sprinkle of cotija cheese, or soft warm tortillas for tacos. Even a simple fresh salad with avocado adds a lovely balance of textures and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by turning your carne asada into tacos garnished with diced onions and a squeeze of lime. Or layer the sliced meat over a bed of cilantro-lime cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. You can even use it to elevate nachos or stuff inside burritos for a flavorful meal anytime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The beef will stay juicy and flavorful, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked carne asada in sealed freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label and date your packages so you always know when to enjoy your delicious leftovers.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to keep the steak moist. A quick sautée in a hot pan also works wonderfully and helps revive that beautiful sear on the meat.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak gives that classic carne asada texture, skirt steak or bavette are excellent alternatives that cook well in the Instant Pot and offer similar flavor and tenderness.
How do I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Simply skip the orange juice or replace it with an equal amount of extra lime juice or beef broth to reduce carbs while keeping a bright, citrusy taste.
Is it necessary to brown the steak before pressure cooking?
Browning adds depth of flavor and a lovely crust, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just know the flavor won’t be quite as rich.
Can I use this Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for pre-cooked protein to add to salads, bowls, or tacos throughout the week.
How can I tell when the meat is done?
The recipe’s 20-minute pressure cook time is ideal for well-done steak, but you can adjust between 10 to 15 minutes for medium doneness. Using a meat thermometer is best to check for your preferred internal temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe is a delightful mix of bold spices, fresh citrus, and tender steak that comes together faster than you might expect. It’s perfect for anyone who loves rich, satisfying meals without tons of fuss. I promise once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it over and over—so go ahead and give this recipe a whirl today!
PrintInstant Pot Carne Asada Recipe
This Instant Pot Carne Asada recipe delivers tender, flavorful flank steak infused with a vibrant blend of spices and a zesty marinade. Utilizing the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking method ensures juicy, well-cooked meat in a fraction of the traditional time, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The recipe features a homemade spice rub and marinade composed of lime and orange juice, garlic, and fresh cilantro, enhancing the steak’s natural flavors. Serve with fresh cilantro or chimichurri sauce for an authentic Mexican-inspired dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (6 minutes sautéing + 20 minutes pressure cooking + 4 minutes pressure release)
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Spice Rub
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
For the Flank Steak
- 1 2-pound flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Marinade
- ½ cup low-sodium beef broth
- ¼ cup lime juice
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ packed cup onion slices (half of 1 small onion)
Serving Suggestions (All Optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Prepared chimichurri sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon cumin thoroughly to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Season the steak: Generously rub both sides of the 2-pound flank steak with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring the spices are well incorporated into the meat for enhanced flavor.
- Brown the steak: Turn on the Instant Pot to the Sauté function and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Once hot, add the flank steak. If necessary, cut the steak against the grain into two large pieces to fit the pot. Brown the steak for about 6 minutes total, 2-3 minutes per side, until it develops a nice crust.
- Add the marinade: Pour ½ cup low-sodium beef broth, ¼ cup lime juice, ¼ cup orange juice, and add 3 minced garlic cloves into the Instant Pot over the browned steak.
- Add fresh aromatics: Place ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro and ½ packed cup of onion slices on top of the steak.
- Pressure cook the steak: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the Manual or Pressure Cook function on High Pressure for 20 minutes to achieve a well-done steak. After cooking, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
- Release pressure and slice: Carefully vent any remaining pressure, open the lid, and transfer the steak to a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, slice the meat thinly against the grain at a diagonal angle to maximize tenderness.
- Serve: Arrange the sliced steak on a serving platter, garnish with additional chopped cilantro if desired, and accompany with chimichurri sauce or other favorite toppings.
Notes
- Cook Times may vary depending on the model of your Instant Pot and the thickness of the steak; adjust cooking time between 10-15 minutes for less well-done results. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature before slicing.
- When cutting flank steak, always slice against the grain – locate the muscle fibers running through the meat and cut perpendicular to them to maximize tenderness.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure your beef broth contains no gluten additives.
- Keto adaptations: Orange juice and onions contain carbs; to keep very low-carb, omit the orange juice and onions or substitute with extra lime or lemon juice and more broth. This alters flavor slightly but keeps it keto-friendly.
