The moment you take a bite of a soft mini corn tortilla filled with tender, smoky carne asada, time seems to stand still. I often find myself daydreaming about those vibrant street taco stands I visited during my travels, with flavors that danced on my palate. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos, a dish that brings those cherished memories right into your home without all the fuss. This recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, ensuring you can enjoy wholesome, homemade meals without hours of cooking. Plus, it’s family-friendly, featuring gluten-free corn tortillas that everyone can savor. Ready to turn your kitchen into a taco haven? Let’s dive in!

Why will you love Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos?

Simplicity: This recipe allows you to toss ingredients in a slow cooker, so you can focus on other tasks while dinner cooks.

Irresistible flavor: The combination of marinated flank steak and spices creates a flavor explosion that will impress your family and friends.

Family-friendly: With gluten-free corn tortillas, everyone can enjoy a dish that caters to different dietary needs, making it a perfect family dinner option.

Quick meal prep: Ideal for busy weeknights, you can set it up in minutes and let the slow cooker do the rest. Consider serving with Cilantro Lime Rice for a complete meal!

Versatile toppings: Dress your tacos with avocado, salsa, or cheese, allowing everyone to customize their feast.

Leftover potential: This dish keeps well, ensuring you have delicious meals for days or easy lunches to take to work. Enjoy the vibrant flavors without missing a beat!

Easy Crock Pot Street Taco Ingredients

For the Marinade
Olive oil – Adds moisture and flavor; can substitute with vegetable oil if necessary.
Flank steak – Main protein that offers a meaty taste; skirt steak or sirloin can be used as substitutes.
Minced garlic – Contributes aromatic flavor; use fresh garlic for the best results.
Chili powder – Provides spice and flavor to the marinade.
Paprika – Adds color and subtle sweetness to the dish.
Cumin – Gives an earthy, warm flavor profile.
Salt – Essential for seasoning the meat.
Pepper – Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Fresh lime juice – Adds acidity and brightness; juice is used for marinade and finishing.
For the Tacos
White onion – Provides sweetness and texture; chop finely for even distribution.
Cilantro – Fresh herb that enhances flavor and freshness; omit if desired, but it’s recommended for authentic taste.
Beef broth – Adds richness and helps cook the flank steak; low-sodium broth can be used for a healthier option.
Mini corn tortillas – The base for tacos, a gluten-free option; flour tortillas can be used but must be smaller for traditional street tacos.
For Frying
Butter – Used for frying tortillas to enhance flavor; can use olive oil for a healthier option.

These uncomplicated ingredients come together to create Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos that are not just a meal but an experience to relish on busy weeknights!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Begin by placing the flank steak in your crock pot and drizzle it with olive oil, ensuring each side is well-coated for moisture. In a bowl, mix minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cumin until combined. Rub this flavorful mixture evenly over the steak, making sure to cover all surfaces for an unforgettable flavor in your Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos.

Step 2: Add Additional Ingredients
Next, squeeze the juice from one fresh lime over the seasoned steak. This adds a zesty brightness that pairs perfectly with the spices. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and finely diced onion around the steak, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Then, pour the beef broth around the steak to keep it juicy while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Flank Steak
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. As the beef cooks, it will transform into tender, falling-apart goodness. Check for doneness; the steak should be easy to shred when it’s ready, ensuring a delightful filling for your tacos.

Step 4: Shred the Beef
Once cooked, carefully remove the flank steak from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, as this will enhance the texture in your Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos. Don’t forget to squeeze in the juice of the second lime for an added punch of freshness.

Step 5: Fry the Tortillas
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and get ready to fry the mini corn tortillas. Cook each tortilla for about 1 minute, just until they soften and develop a slight golden color. This step is crucial for creating the warm, pliable base for your delicious tacos.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
For the final step, take two fried mini corn tortillas and layer them together. Fill each with a generous amount of the shredded carne asada, then top with any additional toppings you desire, such as extra cilantro, diced onion, or salsa. Your Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos are now ready to be enjoyed!

Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos Variations

Feel free to personalize your Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos with these delightful twists to suit your taste.

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil for frying tortillas, ensuring a deliciously dairy-free option without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the marinade for a zesty heat. Just a little can elevate the flavor profile and bring that authentic street taco appeal to your table!
Herbaceous Twist: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or mint if you’re not a cilantro fan. These herbs add a distinct freshness and can change the taco experience beautifully.
Corn Tortilla Alternative: Try corn chips for a playful twist! Layer your taco fillings on a bed of crispy corn chips for a fun, nacho-style creation that’s just as tasty.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute flank steak with jackfruit or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still provides a satisfying, hearty texture.
Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding a splash of orange juice to your marinade for a hint of sweetness and acidity that complements the savory flavors wonderfully.
Crispy Texture: After frying, toast the mini corn tortillas lightly in the oven for a delightful crunch that adds another layer to your tacos.
Asian-inspired: Incorporate Asian-style flavors by adding a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil into the marinade for an unexpected take on these classic tacos!

Excited to mix and match? These variations make serving Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos a unique experience every time! If you’re looking for more ideas, check out my Chicken Street Tacos or try the flavorful Crockpot Butter Chicken for another quick meal option!

Expert Tips for Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos

Proper Cooking Temp: Cook on low: For optimal tenderness, slow cook the flank steak at low temperatures to avoid toughness and achieve perfect results with your Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos.
Cutting Technique: Against the grain: Always shred the flank steak against the grain to ensure a tender bite in your tacos, enhancing the overall eating experience.
Maximize Flavor: Marinate longer: If possible, let the flank steak marinate for a few hours or overnight before cooking to infuse even more delicious flavors into your Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos.
Tortilla Prep: Don’t skip frying: Frying the mini corn tortillas gives them a nice texture and flavor. Avoid skipping this step to create an authentic taco experience!
Storage Savvy: Refrigerate promptly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh for quick meals throughout the week.
Taco Customization: Explore toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or various salsas, making each bite uniquely yours with your Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance; simply rub the spices and marinade on the meat, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to cook. Additionally, you can chop the onions and cilantro a day ahead and store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, just follow the cooking instructions as usual and shred the beef. For the tortillas, fry them right before serving to ensure they remain warm and soft, providing you with delicious tacos that taste just as good as when freshly made—perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Easy Crock Pot Street Tacos

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and makes for easy meal prep during busy weeknights.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the shredded carne asada in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the carne asada in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Serve in freshly fried tortillas for the best texture and taste.

Leftovers: Perfect for quick lunches! Pair the reheated meat with rice and veggies for a satisfying meal that brings the delightful flavors of your Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos back to life.

What to Serve with Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos

A feast of vibrant flavors awaits, inviting everyone to gather around the table and enjoy comforting bites that feel like a warm hug.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty side that brings freshness and pairs perfectly with the rich carne asada flavors, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of charred corn complements the savory meat, adding a satisfying crunch that everyone will love.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy, bright, and filled with contrasting textures, this dip enhances the tacos and adds a refreshing element to the meal.
Pico de Gallo: Bright and juicy with tomatoes, onion, and lime, this salsa introduces a zesty element that elevates each taco bite.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: A cool and creamy addition, this salad offers layers of flavor with its cheesy, lime-infused dressing, making it an ideal accompaniment.
Refreshing Horchata: The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of this cinnamon-infused drink balances the spices, providing a satisfying sip alongside your meal.
Baked Tortilla Chips: Crispy and warm, these chips provide a fun way to enjoy leftover guacamole or salsa, adding extra crunch to your taco feast.
Crispy Churros: For a sweet finish, these fried pastries dusted with cinnamon sugar offer a delightful end to your flavor-packed meal, making it truly unforgettable!

Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for a piece that is deep red in color with minimal fat marbling. Avoid any cuts with dark spots or a dull color, as these are indicators of aging. The best flank steak will feel firm and not be overly soft to the touch, giving you confidence that it’s fresh.

How should I store leftovers from the tacos?
Very! To keep your Easy Crock Pot Carne Asada Street Tacos fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them within 2 hours of cooking. They will last up to 5 days, and you’ll have tasty meals ready for a quick lunch or dinner during the week!

Can I freeze the carne asada?
Absolutely! To freeze your shredded carne asada, place it in airtight freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. The carne asada can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I do if my meat is tough after cooking?
If your flank steak comes out tough, it’s likely due to cooking it at too high a temperature. To avoid this, always cook on low for 6-8 hours. However, if you find yourself with tough meat, try shredding it finely and mixing it with a bit of beef broth. Let it simmer on low for another 30 minutes for added tenderness and flavor.

Do the ingredients cater to common dietary concerns?
Yes, definitely! This recipe is adaptable for gluten-free diets, as it uses mini corn tortillas. Additionally, always check your spice labels to ensure they don’t contain gluten. If you’re concerned about allergies, the primary ingredients are straightforward, but I suggest avoiding any shared utensils if cooking for someone with severe allergies.

How can I enhance the flavor of the marinade?
I often recommend marinating the flank steak for at least a few hours or overnight if you have the time. This allows all those delicious spices to penetrate the meat deeply. You can even add a bit of orange juice or vinegar to the marinade for a unique twist! Plus, don’t forget to rub the spices all over the steak for the best results before cooking.