Carne asada is the Spanish name for grilled beef served with tortillas and toppings.
The phrase carne asada literally means “grilled meat,” though in Tex-Mex and Mexican-American cooking it usually refers to marinated beef grilled over high heat. The meat may be served sliced with tortillas, onions, cilantro, salsa, guacamole, beans, or rice.
Common cuts include flank steak, skirt steak, or other thin beef cuts. Marinades frequently contain citrus juice, garlic, herbs, chiles, or spices, but there is no single universal recipe. Charred edges and smoky flavor are central to the preparation.
Carne asada differs from carne guisada, which is beef slowly simmered in gravy. It also differs from fajitas, although grilled skirt steak can appear in both dishes. In restaurant menus, the term may describe either a plated meal or a taco filling.