Carne asada fries are the kind of dish that can turn a boring Tuesday into a fiesta in your mouth. Imagine crispy fries topped with juicy, marinated steak, gooey cheese, and a splash of fresh salsa. The flavors dance together in perfect harmony, creating an unforgettable experience that makes your taste buds sing and your heart do the cha-cha! This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration on a plate that brings friends and family together.
Every time I whip up carne asada fries, I’m transported back to my college days when late-night cravings seemed like a competitive sport. My friends and I would pile into a car and head to the nearest taco truck, eagerly waiting for our delicious fix. The anticipation was half the fun—a fragrant mix of sizzling meat and crispy potatoes wafting through the air made our stomachs rumble like thunder. Whether you’re celebrating Taco Tuesday or just looking for an indulgent snack, these fries will never disappoint.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Carne asada fries are incredibly easy to make at home, perfect for any occasion
- The flavor profile is out of this world—savory meat paired with creamy toppings creates a delightful bite every time
- Their vibrant presentation makes them visually appealing, sure to impress anyone you serve them to
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to switch up toppings based on your mood or pantry!
One memorable night, I served carne asada fries at a gathering, and my friends raved about them long after the last fry was gone.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice for crispy fries; their high starch content yields a fluffy inside.
Flank Steak: Tender and flavorful, flank steak absorbs marinades beautifully; buy high-quality cuts for best results.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that golden crispiness for the fries while adding rich flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for a tangy kick that contrasts perfectly with the savory steak.
Sour Cream: Use it generously for creaminess; it balances out the spices wonderfully.
Salsa Fresca: Fresh salsa adds brightness and zing; make it homemade for maximum flavor!
Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro enhances freshness and adds a burst of color—don’t skip it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel russet potatoes before cutting them into thick strips. Toss them in olive oil with salt until well-coated.
Bake Until Crispy: Spread the potatoes evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Marinate the Steak: While your fries bake, prepare your marinade by mixing olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Marinate flank steak for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible.
Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated flank steak for about 5-7 minutes per side until cooked to your desired doneness. Let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain.
Assemble Your Masterpiece: Once your fries are out of the oven and crispy, layer them on a serving platter. Top generously with sliced steak followed by shredded cheddar cheese.
Add Toppings Galore!: Drizzle sour cream over everything before adding fresh salsa fresca and chopped cilantro on top. Feel free to get creative—add jalapeños or guacamole if you fancy!
Now sit back and enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite of these scrumptious carne asada fries!
You Must Know
- Carne asada fries are a delicious fusion of flavors, combining crispy fries with savory carne asada
- The dish is perfect for gatherings and late-night cravings, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite
- Don’t forget the toppings for an extra kick!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best carne asada fries, start by marinating the beef overnight. Cook the fries while grilling the steak to keep everything hot and fresh.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your carne asada fries with toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or jalapeños. Experimenting with different cheese types can also enhance the flavors!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover carne asada fries in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect carne asada fries, ensure your steak is thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness
- Using fresh ingredients elevates the dish’s flavor significantly
- Don’t skimp on toppings; they add both flavor and visual appeal!
Sharing this dish at a family gathering brought laughter and compliments; everyone loved how well it paired with my homemade salsa!
FAQ
What type of meat works best for carne asada fries?
Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal choices for tender and flavorful carne asada.
Can I make carne asada fries vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use grilled vegetables or plant-based meat substitutes for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I prevent soggy fries?
Fry them until golden brown and serve immediately after topping to maintain their crunchiness.
Carne Asada Fries
Carne asada fries are a delectable fusion of crispy fries, juicy marinated steak, and indulgent toppings that transform any meal into a fiesta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thick strips
- 1 lb flank steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa fresca
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss potato strips in olive oil and salt.
- Spread potatoes on a lined baking sheet; bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Marinate flank steak with olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Sear marinated steak in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side; let rest before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Assemble fries on a platter; top with sliced steak, cheddar cheese, sour cream, salsa fresca, and cilantro.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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