How to Make the Authentic King Taco Copycat Recipe

If you’ve ever savored a King Taco carne asada taco, you know the bliss of biting into perfectly grilled meat wrapped in a soft tortilla with that signature salsa roja kick. For those of us who can’t always make a trip to Los Angeles, this King Taco copycat recipe is a delicious way to bring those bold flavors to your own kitchen. Get ready to recreate those mouthwatering tacos with just a few simple ingredients!

King Taco Copycat Recipe

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: American, MexicanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Craving the iconic King Taco experience? This copycat recipe recreates their legendary carne asada tacos with perfectly seasoned meat and tangy salsa.

Ingredients

For the Carne Asada
2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
1/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup lime juice
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
For the Salsa Roja
6 dried guajillo chiles
2 dried ancho chiles
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vinegar
Salt, to taste
For the Tacos
12 corn tortillas
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 cup diced onions
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

In a bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Place the steak in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight for best flavor).
Remove seeds and stems from the dried chiles. In a pot, combine chiles, garlic, and onion with water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
Blend the softened chiles with the water, vinegar, and salt until smooth. Set aside.
Preheat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and pat dry.
Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes per side or until your desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
Warm the corn tortillas on a dry skillet until soft.
Fill each tortilla with carne asada, a drizzle of salsa roja, a sprinkle of cilantro, and diced onions. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

For a more authentic flavor, use mesquite wood chips if grilling.
You can substitute flank steak with chuck roast if needed.
Adjust the spiciness of the salsa roja by adding or reducing the number of chiles.

Tips for Homemade King Taco Recipe

Marinating the steak longer (overnight) results in a deeper, richer flavor.
Always let the steak rest before slicing to retain its juices.
For extra crispy edges on the carne asada, use a hot cast iron skillet.
Double the salsa recipe for dipping chips or extra taco topping.

Recipe Variant

For a spicier twist, try adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the salsa roja. Or make a King Taco-inspired burrito by wrapping the carne asada, salsa, and toppings in a large flour tortilla with rice and beans.

FAQ

Can I use chicken instead of beef for this King Taco copycat recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the flank steak with chicken thighs. Marinate and cook them the same way for a delicious variation.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover carne asada?

Reheat in a hot skillet for a few minutes to keep the meat juicy without drying it out.

Can I freeze the salsa roja?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

Loved this recipe? Try our Taco Bowl Recipe – perfect for a healthier version of these flavorful tacos!

Now you can savor the authentic taste of a King Taco carne asada taco right in your kitchen! This King Taco copycat recipe brings together smoky, juicy steak and a bold, tangy salsa roja that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of LA. Perfect for a weekend feast or Taco Tuesday!