This Authentic Carne Asada Marinade delivers bold, fresh, and vibrant Mexican-inspired flavor using a blend of citrus juices, garlic, herbs, and spices. Designed to tenderize and enhance steak, it creates juicy, flavorful results perfect for grilling, BBQ, or pan-seared dishes. A balanced marinade that brings restaurant-style carne asada right into your home kitchen.

Authentic Carne Asada Marinade Recipe

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

3/4

cup

Prep time

minutes

Total time

minutes

A zesty, citrus-forward carne asada marinade made with fresh orange, lime, garlic, herbs, and spices for bold, juicy, restaurant-style grilled steak.

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

1/4 cup Fresh Orange Juice
2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice
1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
3 tbsp Olive Oil
2 tbsp Soy Sauce
3 cloves Garlic (minced)
1/2 Jalapeño (finely minced, optional)
2 tbsp Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped
1 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin
1 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Dried Oregano
1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
1/2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Brown Sugar
1/4 tsp Onion Powder
1/4 tsp Ground Cinnamon (optional)

Directions

Add the fresh orange juice, fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and soy sauce to a medium mixing bowl.
Add the minced garlic, finely minced jalapeño (if using), and chopped fresh cilantro.
Add the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, ground black pepper, salt, brown sugar, onion powder, and ground cinnamon (if using).
Whisk until all the ingredients are well combined and the brown sugar has dissolved.

Notes

Best Use: Marinate steak for at least 4–8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Customize Heat: Add more jalapeño or chili powder for a spicier kick.
Cooking Ideas: Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, fajitas, or grilled steak platters.