Effortless & Flavorful Instant Pot Carne Asada: Your Guide to Tender Steak

Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, perfectly seasoned carne asada, bursting with vibrant Mexican flavors. Now, imagine achieving that deliciousness not on a grill, but with the incredible convenience of your Instant Pot! This Instant Pot Carne Asada recipe is a culinary revelation, transforming a lean flank steak into an unbelievably tender, juicy, and flavor-packed dish in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, unpredictable weather, or whenever you crave authentic Mexican-inspired cuisine without the fuss. Prepare to revolutionize your meal routine with this simple yet sensational recipe that promises incredible results every single time.

Why This Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe Is a Must-Try Culinary Delight

Traditionalists might argue that true carne asada must be grilled, but this Instant Pot rendition offers an unparalleled blend of flavor, convenience, and consistent tenderness that’s hard to beat. It provides all the smoky, zesty goodness you expect from a classic carne asada, adapted for the modern kitchen. Here are the compelling reasons why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your cooking repertoire:

• Achieve Authentic Flavor Without the Grill: While we skip the charcoal, we don’t skimp on flavor. The Instant Pot creates a high-pressure, moist environment that allows the flank steak to fully absorb the rich, zesty marinade. This ensures deep flavor penetration and an incredibly aromatic outcome. For an extra hint of char, consider a quick post-pressure cook sear in a hot cast-iron skillet, or even add a whisper of liquid smoke to the marinade. The beauty is you get that desired “carne asada style” dinner without worrying about grilling equipment or unpredictable weather. It’s truly an all-season recipe!
• Unrivaled Versatility for Endless Meal Possibilities: One of the greatest attributes of carne asada is its incredible adaptability. This Instant Pot version is no exception. It serves as an outstanding base for a multitude of dishes, transforming leftovers (if there are any!) into exciting new meals. Picture tender strips of steak nestled in warm corn tortillas for classic tacos, layered over crispy tortilla chips for epic nachos, or piled high on savory carne asada fries. Beyond these popular choices, it’s also delicious when paired simply with sides like fragrant cilantro lime cauliflower rice, comforting refried black beans, or a refreshing guacamole salad. Get creative and add it to burritos, quesadillas, salads, or even as a flavorful topping for loaded baked potatoes.
• Guaranteed Tender & Juicy Flank Steak, Every Time: Flank steak is known for its robust flavor but can be notoriously tough if not cooked properly. This is where the Instant Pot truly shines. The pressure cooking method tenderizes even leaner cuts like flank steak by breaking down tough connective tissues efficiently. This results in remarkably juicy and fork-tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, consistently delivering perfect texture that can be challenging to achieve with conventional cooking methods. Plus, with the Instant Pot, clean-up is often a one-pot affair, making your post-dinner routine a breeze.
• The Ultimate Meal Prepper’s Ally: For those who love to plan their meals in advance, this Instant Pot Carne Asada is an ideal make-ahead recipe. Preparing a larger batch means you’ll have delicious, healthy protein ready to go for several days. Store any uneaten carne asada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days, maintaining its freshness and flavor. For longer storage, allow the cooked steak to cool completely, then portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

Delving Into the Key Ingredients

The magic of this Instant Pot Carne Asada lies in a few simple yet powerful ingredients that, when combined, create a symphony of flavors and textures. Understanding the role of each component will help you appreciate the recipe even more and inspire confidence in your cooking.

Flank Steak – The Foundation of Flavor and Texture
Flank steak is a thin, lean cut from the abdominal muscles of a cow. It’s prized for its rich, beefy flavor and relatively quick cooking time. Because it has prominent muscle fibers, it requires specific cooking techniques to prevent it from becoming tough. The Instant Pot is exceptionally well-suited for flank steak, as the pressurized, moist environment gently breaks down these fibers, resulting in remarkable tenderness. If flank steak isn’t readily available, or if you prefer a slightly different texture, skirt steak makes an excellent substitute, offering a similar flavor profile and marinating well. Other options include flat iron steak or hanger steak, both of which are flavorful and benefit from quick, high-heat cooking or pressure cooking. Always remember to slice flank steak (and similar cuts) against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.

Orange Juice – The Unsung Hero for Tenderness and Brightness
The inclusion of orange juice in this carne asada marinade might seem unconventional, but it plays a dual role that is absolutely crucial to the recipe’s success. Firstly, its natural acidity, combined with that of lime juice, acts as a powerful tenderizer. Acids help to denature the proteins in the meat, softening the muscle fibers and allowing for a more tender bite. However, moderation is key; too much acidity can actually begin to “cook” the meat and make it tough. Secondly, orange juice contributes a unique, subtle sweetness and bright citrus note that balances the savory spices and tang of the lime. This addition prevents the marinade from becoming overly acidic, adding a layer of depth and complexity that elevates the overall flavor profile of the carne asada, making it truly irresistible.

Chef’s Expert Tips for Instant Pot Carne Asada Perfection

Even with a straightforward recipe, a few professional tips can elevate your Instant Pot Carne Asada from good to absolutely outstanding. These insights cover critical aspects of cooking and preparation, ensuring your steak is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor every time.

• Mastering Cook Time for Your Preferred Doneness: While the recipe provides a general cook time, personal preferences for steak doneness vary. For those who prefer a less-than-well-done steak, consider reducing the pressure cook time by approximately 5-10 minutes. The exact timing will depend on your specific Instant Pot model, as well as the thickness of your flank steak. To achieve precision, an internal meat thermometer is invaluable. Aim for these temperatures after resting:
  • Medium-Rare: 130°-135°F (54°-57°C)
  • Medium: 140°-145°F (60°-63°C)
  • Medium-Well: 150°-155°F (66°-68°C)

  Since you can’t easily check the temperature mid-cycle in the Instant Pot, a good strategy is to err on the side of slightly undercooking, as you can always return the steak for a few extra minutes if needed after a quick pressure release.

• The Power of a Brief Spice Mingle: While this recipe is designed for speed, allowing the seasoned flank steak to sit with the spice mixture for an extra 15-30 minutes before browning can significantly deepen the flavor profile. This brief resting period, sometimes referred to as a “dry brine,” gives the spices more time to meld with the meat, drawing out moisture and allowing the flavors to penetrate more effectively. The result is a more robust and complex taste that truly sings. It’s a simple step that yields a noticeable difference in the final product.
• The Non-Negotiable Rest After Cooking: This tip is often overlooked but is paramount for juicy steak. After carefully removing the flank steak from the Instant Pot, transfer it to a clean cutting board and allow it to rest undisturbed for at least 5 minutes before slicing. During cooking, the muscle fibers of the steak contract, pushing the juices towards the center. Resting allows these juices to redistribute evenly throughout the entire cut. If you slice the steak too soon, those precious juices will simply run out onto your cutting board, leaving your steak drier and less flavorful. A short rest is a small effort for a huge impact on juiciness and tenderness.

Creative Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings

Once your Instant Pot Carne Asada is perfectly cooked and sliced, the culinary adventure truly begins! Its rich, savory, and zesty profile makes it incredibly versatile, ready to star in a variety of dishes. Here are some inspiring ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Classic Carne Asada Tacos: Serve the steak in warm corn or flour tortillas with a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro, diced white onion, a squeeze of lime, and your favorite salsa. Don’t forget a dollop of guacamole or crema!
• Loaded Nachos or Fries: Pile the carne asada onto a bed of crispy tortilla chips or golden french fries (for carne asada fries). Top with melted cheese, pico de gallo, sour cream, and jalapeños for an ultimate feast.
• Hearty Burritos or Bowls: Wrap the steak in large flour tortillas with rice, beans, cheese, and salsa for a satisfying burrito. For a lighter option, create a vibrant bowl with cilantro lime rice or cauliflower rice, black beans, corn, avocado, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
• Flavorful Salads: Add thinly sliced, cooled carne asada to a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette for a protein-packed and refreshing meal. It pairs beautifully with mixed greens, bell peppers, corn, and cherry tomatoes.
• Breakfast Power-Up: Incorporate leftover carne asada into breakfast scrambles, omelets, or breakfast burritos for a savory and satisfying start to your day.
• Traditional Side Dishes: Complement the rich flavors of the steak with classic Mexican sides such as cilantro lime rice, refried beans, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad with a guacamole salad. A vibrant chimichurri sauce can also add a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint.

Explore More Instant Pot Favorites

The Instant Pot is a remarkably versatile appliance that can streamline your cooking and bring a wide array of delicious dishes to your table. If you’ve enjoyed the ease and flavor of this carne asada recipe, you’ll love discovering other convenient and mouth-watering meals you can prepare with your pressure cooker. Here are a few more Instant Pot recipes to inspire your culinary adventures:

• Instant Pot Asparagus
• Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
• Japanese Curry in the Instant Pot
• Instant Pot Carrots
• Instant Pot Stuffed Peppers
• The Best Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala

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Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (based on 5 votes)

Instant Pot Carne Asada Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Easy and quick, this Instant Pot carne asada recipe is full of simple ingredients that give you incredible flavors. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, delivering tender, juicy flank steak every time.

By Cheryl Malik

Print Recipe

Ingredients

Yields: 6 servings

For the Spice Rub

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black 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 fresh lime juice
• ¼ cup fresh orange juice (see Notes for alternatives)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ½ packed cup onion slices (from half of 1 small onion)

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Extra chopped fresh cilantro
• Prepared chimichurri sauce
• Warm corn or flour tortillas
• Avocado slices or freshly made guacamole
• Salsa or vibrant pico de gallo
• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Refried beans or cilantro lime rice

Equipment

• Small mixing bowl
• Instant Pot (or other electric pressure cooker)
• Heat-resistant tongs
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon cumin. Mix thoroughly to create your aromatic spice rub.

   

2. Pat the 2-pound flank steak dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides of the steak with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Rub the spices into the meat firmly to adhere them. For a deeper flavor, let the steak rest with the rub for 15-30 minutes at room temperature if time allows.

   

3. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to your Instant Pot inner pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned flank steak into the pot. If your flank steak is too large, cut it against the grain into two or three pieces to fit comfortably. Brown the steak on both sides for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, totaling about 6 minutes, to develop a rich crust and deepen its flavor.

   

4. After browning the flank steak, add ½ cup low-sodium beef broth, ¼ cup fresh lime juice, ¼ cup fresh orange juice, and 3 cloves of minced garlic to the Instant Pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to prevent a “Burn” warning and ensure all flavorful fond is incorporated into the liquid.

   

5. Evenly distribute ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro and ½ packed cup of onion slices over the flank steak in the Instant Pot. Secure the lid, ensuring the sealing valve is set to the ‘Sealing’ position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the time to High Pressure for 20 minutes. (This is for a well-done steak; consult the “Chef’s Expert Tips” or “Recipe Notes” for adjustments to achieve medium-rare or medium doneness.) Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. This helps the meat absorb more moisture and become incredibly tender.

   

6. After the 10-minute natural release, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure by turning the sealing valve to ‘Venting’. Once the float valve drops, carefully remove the lid. Using tongs, transfer the tender flank steak to a clean cutting board. Allow the steak to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing – this crucial step ensures maximum juiciness.

   

7. Slice the flank steak into thin strips, always cutting against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite incredibly tender. Top the sliced carne asada with additional chopped fresh cilantro or a drizzle of chimichurri sauce if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments. Enjoy your flavorful and tender Instant Pot Carne Asada!

Recipe Notes and Variations

• Customizing Cook Time for Your Doneness Preference: Instant Pot models can vary, and steak thickness influences cooking time. For a medium-rare steak, reduce the pressure cook time to 10-12 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release. For medium doneness, aim for 15 minutes of pressure cooking. Always verify internal temperature with a meat thermometer for accuracy before cutting.
• The Art of Slicing Against the Grain: This is arguably the most vital step for tender carne asada. Identify the long, visible muscle fibers (the “grain”) running through the cooked meat. Using a sharp knife, slice perpendicularly (at a slight diagonal angle) across these fibers. You may need to adjust your slicing angle as the grain can change direction in different sections of the steak. This technique ensures that each bite is as tender as possible.
• Gluten-Free Assurance: To maintain the gluten-free nature of this recipe, always double-check the label of your beef broth to ensure it is certified gluten-free. Most plain broths are, but it’s good practice to confirm.
• Keto-Friendly Adjustments: For those on a strict ketogenic diet, the orange juice and onions are the only ingredients with notable carbohydrate content. While some keto dieters include onions in moderation, you can omit them if preferred. The ¼ cup of orange juice contributes approximately 6 grams of total carbohydrates to the entire recipe (about 1 gram per serving). For a stricter keto approach, substitute the orange juice with additional low-sodium beef broth, lemon juice, or more lime juice. The flavor profile will subtly change but will remain delicious and compliant with your dietary goals.
• Reheating Leftovers: To prevent drying out, gently reheat leftover carne asada in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of beef broth, water, or even a little extra lime juice. Alternatively, microwave briefly on a low setting.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 268 kcal | Protein: 33g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Total Carbs: 4g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Net Carbs: 3g | Vitamin C: 10mg | Cholesterol: 91mg | Sodium: 512mg | Potassium: 639mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 3mg

The number of total servings shown is an approximation. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values provided are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the specified ingredients, excluding any optional ingredients. Actual macronutrient values may vary slightly depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used in your preparation.

To determine the precise weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe (excluding the weight of the container) and then divide this total weight by your desired number of servings. The result will be the weight of a single serving.

© Author: Cheryl Malik