This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure here.

Instant Pot 10-Minute Steak Tacos (Carne Asada): Your Ultimate Guide to Quick & Healthy Flavor

Craving an incredibly flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that comes together in a flash? Look no further than these mouth-watering **Instant Pot 10-Minute Steak Tacos**, also affectionately known as delicious Carne Asada! These aren’t just any tacos; they’re a revelation for busy weeknights and spontaneous weekend feasts alike. Each taco is a gourmet experience, brimming with fresh salsa, vibrant cilantro, and perfectly juicy, tender steak that melts in your mouth. Best of all, the simplicity of this recipe means it can easily double as a lightning-fast option for delicious beef fajitas, offering incredible versatility for your meal planning.

Life in the fast lane often leaves us scrambling for quick yet wholesome meal solutions. Just like many of you, I recently navigated a jam-packed weekend, highlighted by a fantastic (and bottomless!) brunch with friends. While the memories were priceless, the clock was ticking against my usual extensive meal prep routine. This is precisely when my trusty Instant Pot transformed from a kitchen appliance into a culinary savior. Discovering some delicious leftover steak from my Instant Pot Mongolian Beef and Quinoa recipe, the idea for these speedy steak tacos sparked a moment of genius. It was a clear reminder that delicious, home-cooked food doesn’t always demand hours in the kitchen; sometimes, all it takes is a clever shortcut and a desire for bold flavors.

Nutrition Snapshot (per serving):
Calories: 146       Fat: 5G     Net Carbs: 11G     Protein: 12G

Unlock Rapid Flavor: Why the Instant Pot is Your Taco’s Best Friend

My enthusiasm for the Instant Pot’s sauté function is unwavering, and once you try these tacos, you’ll understand why. This feature is the secret weapon behind perfectly cooked steak in an astonishingly short amount of time. By using just a small amount of olive oil, the Instant Pot creates an ideal, high-heat environment that sears the steak beautifully. This rapid searing locks in all the natural juices, resulting in steak that is incredibly tender, bursting with flavor, and never dry. The consistency and efficiency of this method not only drastically cuts down on cooking time but also simplifies post-meal cleanup, making it a true game-changer for busy home cooks who refuse to compromise on taste or quality.

While traditional pan-searing on a stovetop remains a viable option, my preference consistently leans towards the Instant Pot for its superior results and undeniable convenience. The sauté function reaches optimal searing temperatures quickly and maintains them consistently, ensuring that each piece of steak is cooked uniformly and swiftly. This leads to steak that isn’t just fast but genuinely succulent and juicy, far surpassing the dryness that can sometimes result from less controlled stovetop methods. Moreover, the Instant Pot offers remarkable versatility; if your ideal taco experience involves tender, shredded beef, this recipe can be easily adapted. After the initial sauté to develop a rich crust and lock in flavor, you can switch to the pressure cooker setting (perhaps using a “Stew Meat” or similar program, or simply a short pressure cook cycle with a little beef broth) to further tenderize the meat until it’s effortlessly shreddable. This adaptability makes the Instant Pot an invaluable asset in any kitchen, catering to various preferences with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

The Art of the Perfect Taco: From Steak to Savory Toppings

Selecting Your Ideal Tortilla Base

The foundation of any great taco begins with the tortilla, and for these incredible steak tacos, I consistently gravitate towards classic **corn tortillas**. Their distinct, earthy flavor and wonderfully soft, pliable texture provide the perfect authentic base that truly complements the savory carne asada. For a more traditional Mexican experience or for casual, grab-and-go bites, I’ve also found immense satisfaction using smaller **corn street taco tortillas**. These are inherently soft, perfectly sized to fit comfortably in one hand, and offer a delightfully delicate chew. There’s a particular charm and freshness in the soft, yielding nature of these tortillas, offering a stark and welcome contrast to the often crunchy and sometimes messy experience of their hard-shell counterparts. While both styles have their rightful place in the taco universe, the gentle embrace of a warm, soft corn tortilla truly allows the rich flavors of the Instant Pot Carne Asada and its fresh toppings to shine through without competition.

Elevate with Essential Toppings for a Flavor Explosion

The true magic of tacos lies in their incredible customizability, transforming a simple meal into an elaborate feast tailored to your preferences. Our Instant Pot Steak Tacos are no exception, with the right toppings elevating the experience from merely delicious to absolutely unforgettable. Here’s a detailed look at my must-have additions that promise a burst of flavor and texture with every bite:

• **Fresh Lime Juice:** This is not merely an optional garnish; it’s a vital component for me! A generous squeeze of fresh lime juice over your finished tacos introduces a bright, zesty tang that masterfully cuts through the richness of the steak. It awakens all the individual flavors, leaving a refreshing aftertaste.
• **Authentic Salsa:** The right salsa is absolutely crucial. Whether you prefer the chunky freshness of a homemade pico de gallo, the smoky depth of a roasted salsa verde, or a mild, classic red salsa, it adds essential moisture, a touch of spice, and complex layers of flavor that marry beautifully with the beef.
• **Fresh Cilantro:** A liberal sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro brings an herbaceous, bright freshness that is quintessentially Mexican. Its aromatic qualities perfectly complement the savory notes of the steak, adding an indispensable layer of authentic flavor.
• **Finely Chopped Red Onion:** Offering a delightful textural contrast, finely diced red onion provides a sharp, crisp bite and a subtle pungent flavor. This adds a crucial balance to the richness of the meat and the creaminess of other toppings.
• **Reduced-Fat Mexican Cheese:** A modest sprinkle of shredded Mexican cheese, especially when allowed to gently melt over the hot steak, introduces a creamy, savory element that enhances the overall mouthfeel without overwhelming the dish.
• **Crema or Light Sour Cream:** A dollop of cool, tangy Mexican crema or light sour cream provides a luxurious counterpoint to the vibrant and savory flavors. It adds a wonderful creaminess and a touch of richness that helps to harmonise all the ingredients.
• **Homemade Guacamole:** For the ultimate taco experience, these Instant Pot Steak Tacos pair absolutely perfectly with my homemade guacamole recipe. The creamy, rich avocado offers another layer of luxurious texture and unparalleled flavor that is simply irresistible. And don’t forget to serve it alongside some crunchy chips for dipping – the quinoa and black bean chips from Trader Joe’s are my absolute favorite for this!

Healthy Eating with Instant Pot Steak Tacos

Integrating steak into a healthy eating plan is not only feasible but also incredibly delicious, especially with this Instant Pot recipe. The secret lies in mindful preparation and thoughtful topping choices. By following a few simple guidelines, you can enjoy these flavorful tacos guilt-free while nourishing your body. Here are some key tips for making your steak tacos a healthy delight:

• **Prioritize Trimming Fat:** This is a crucial first step. Before you begin seasoning or cooking, meticulously trim any excess visible fat from your sirloin or other chosen steak cut. This seemingly small action significantly reduces the overall calorie and saturated fat content of your meal without compromising an ounce of flavor or tenderness.
• **Opt for Lean Cuts:** When selecting your steak, lean cuts are your best friends for healthy tacos. Sirloin, flank steak, and top round are all excellent choices. These cuts are naturally lower in fat, cook quickly, and are adept at absorbing marinades and seasonings, ensuring a robust flavor profile.
• **Amplify with Vegetables:** To boost the nutritional value and add wonderful texture, generously load your tacos with fresh vegetables. Think beyond just tomatoes and onions; shredded lettuce, thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), a vibrant corn and black bean salsa, or even sautéed zucchini can transform your tacos into a nutrient-packed powerhouse.
• **Master Portion Control:** While undeniably delicious, it’s easy to get carried away with tacos. Be mindful of your serving sizes. Focus on filling your tortillas with a balanced mix of steak and, most importantly, an abundance of fresh, colorful vegetables and salsas. This approach ensures satisfaction without overindulgence.
• **Craft Homemade Toppings:** Taking the extra step to make your own salsa and guacamole provides complete control over the ingredients. This allows you to significantly reduce or eliminate unwanted added sugars, excessive sodium, and unhealthy fats often prevalent in many store-bought condiments. Freshly made toppings not only taste superior but also align perfectly with a health-conscious lifestyle.

More Delicious Taco & Instant Pot Inspirations

If you’re as big a fan of quick, healthy, and flavorful meals as I am, you’ll love exploring more recipes that embrace the magic of the Instant Pot and the endless versatility of tacos. These selections are perfect for expanding your culinary horizons and keeping your meal rotation exciting:

• For those following specific dietary plans, these Instant Pot Flank Steak Tacos are perfectly suited for the 21-Day Fix program, offering a delicious and compliant option.
• If you’re seeking a lighter, low-carb alternative, these Instant Pot Shredded Beef Taco Lettuce Wraps are an outstanding and refreshing choice, ditching the tortillas for crisp lettuce.

Pin this recipe for later!  🙂  

Expand Your Instant Pot Repertoire: More Amazing Recipes

The Instant Pot continues to prove itself as an indispensable culinary powerhouse, capable of delivering a vast array of delicious dishes that simplify cooking without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for soups, comfort food, or even desserts, there’s an Instant Pot recipe to fit every craving. Here are some more of my top Instant Pot recipes to inspire your next meal and help you make the most of this incredible appliance:

• Instant Pot Pumpkin Spice Sweet Potato Soup
• Instant Pot Homemade Cranberry Sauce
• Instant Pot Low-Carb Pumpkin Spice Bread
• Instant Pot Lasagna
• Instant Pot Shrimp Risotto with Vegetables and Parmesan
• Instant Pot BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
• How to Make Hard Boiled Eggs Using the Instant Pot
• Instant Pot Chicken and Spanish Rice (Arroz Con Pollo)
• Instant Pot Cheesecake
• Instant Pot Chicken Alfredo Spaghetti Squash
• Instant Pot Mongolian Beef
• Instant Pot Steak Tacos
• Instant Pot Chicken Taco Bowl with Quinoa
• Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Instant Pot 10-Minute Steak Tacos (Carne Asada) Recipe

By Brandi Crawford

These quick and easy 10-minute Instant Pot steak tacos are a healthy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal. Loaded with fresh salsa, cilantro, and perfectly juicy steak, they’re ideal for a fast weeknight dinner, a fun gathering, or anytime you crave authentic Mexican-inspired flavors in a flash.

Rated 4.93 out of 5 stars by 26 voters.

🖨️Print Recipe
📌Pin Recipe

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Total Time:
10 mins

Course:
Dinner, Lunch


Cuisine:
American, Mexican

Servings:
6


Calories:
146 kcal

Want to save this recipe for later?

We’d love to send this recipe directly to your inbox, so you can easily come back to it whenever you wish! As a bonus, you’ll also receive our complimentary digital cookbook featuring 30-Minute One-Pot Recipes, along with weekly recipes and cooking tips straight to your email. Don’t miss out on more deliciousness!

To save this recipe and access our free digital cookbook, simply subscribe to our newsletter here.

Ingredients

• 8 oz Butcher Box sirloin steak (fat trimmed and sliced into thin pieces)
• ½ cup red onion (chopped)
• ¼ cup tomatoes (chopped)
• ¾ cup reduced-fat Mexican cheese (shredded)
• 2 tablespoons crema or light sour cream
• 6 tablespoons authentic salsa (one tablespoon per taco)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning (to taste)
• McCormick’s Grill Mates Steak Rub and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Activate the Instant Pot’s “Sauté” function. Allow the pot to heat thoroughly until the display shows “Hot.” Once ready, add the olive oil to the inner pot, ensuring it coats the bottom evenly.
2. Generously season the thinly sliced Butcher Box sirloin steak with your preferred amounts of Trader Joe’s Taco Seasoning, McCormick’s Grill Mates Steak Rub, and freshly ground black pepper. Carefully place the seasoned steak pieces into the hot Instant Pot.
3. Sear both sides of the steak for approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Cook until the steak develops a rich, golden-brown crust and reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare to medium is recommended for optimal tenderness). To achieve an excellent sear, avoid overcrowding the pot; cook the steak in small batches if necessary.
4. Once cooked, carefully remove the steak from the Instant Pot and transfer it to a plate or serving dish. If you enjoy melted cheese on your tacos, immediately sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat Mexican cheese over the hot steak. The residual heat will perfectly melt the cheese, creating a gooey, irresistible layer.
5. Preheat your oven to the “Broil” setting (or the highest temperature). Once the oven is adequately heated, place the corn tortillas directly onto an oven rack. Warm them for just a couple of minutes until they become soft, pliable, and slightly toasted, being vigilant to prevent them from becoming crispy or burning. As an alternative, you can quickly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds per side, or briefly microwave them.
6. Now it’s time to assemble your delicious tacos! Take the warmed tortillas and generously fill each with the juicy, seasoned steak (and melted cheese, if used). Top with a dollop of creamy crema or light sour cream, a spoonful of authentic salsa, and the chopped tomatoes. Finish each taco with a liberal sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a final squeeze of fresh lime juice for that essential bright, zesty kick. Serve your Instant Pot 10-Minute Steak Tacos immediately and savor every incredible bite!

Notes

For an extra layer of smoky, grilled flavor reminiscent of outdoor cooking, consider adding just a teaspoon of liquid smoke along with your dry seasonings to the steak before you begin sautéing it in the Instant Pot. This simple addition can significantly enhance the depth of flavor.

If your preference leans towards a shredded beef taco texture rather than sliced steak, use a beef roast such as chuck roast instead of sirloin. After an initial sauté to brown the roast, add about 1 cup of beef broth or water, then use the Instant Pot’s “Stew Meat” or “Pressure Cook” setting. Cook for a longer duration, typically 45-60 minutes with a natural pressure release, until the meat is incredibly fork-tender and easily shreddable with two forks.

Feel empowered to fully customize your taco toppings! Beyond the essentials, consider adding diced avocado, thinly sliced radishes for crunch, pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick, crumbled cotija cheese, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce to personalize your tacos to perfection.

Nutrition Information

Calories:
146
kcal

Tried this recipe?
We’d love to see your creations! Mention @Stay_Snatched or tag #StaySnatched on social media!

Subscribe to our Youtube Channel
For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, make sure to check out and subscribe to our videos on YouTube!

Important Nutrition Data Disclosure

Macros and nutritional data are provided as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee. This information is typically calculated using third-party nutrition calculators such as MyFitnessPal.com and is an estimate based on the ingredients and quantities listed. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for any given recipe, it is strongly recommended that you calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients and brands you use in your own kitchen, employing your preferred nutrition calculator or consulting a registered dietitian. You, the user, are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful for your specific dietary needs, health goals, and medical conditions.

Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was! Your feedback is always welcome and appreciated.