Carne Asada Fries
A Bold and Satisfying Loaded Fries Dish
Bring bold, vibrant flavors to your table with these Carne Asada Fries. Featuring crispy baked fries, juicy marinated steak, and fresh toppings, this recipe delivers a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a hearty main meal, these loaded fries are easy to prepare and absolutely irresistible.
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
COOK TIME: 30 minutes
COURSE: Main Course
CUISINE: Mexican-American
SERVINGS: 4 servings
EQUIPMENT:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound flank or skirt steak
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream
- 1/2 cup pico de gallo
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Fries
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 2: Marinate and Cook the Carne Asada
- In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the steak in the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the steak for about 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until desired doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
Step 3: Assemble the Carne Asada Fries
- Transfer the crispy baked fries to an oven-safe serving dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the hot fries and return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, until melted.
- Top with sliced carne asada, Greek yogurt or light sour cream, pico de gallo, diced avocado, cilantro, and jalapeño if using.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Serve immediately while warm and melty.
- Add an extra squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness.
- Enjoy as a shareable platter or hearty main dish.
TIPS:
- For extra crispiness, soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking and pat dry thoroughly.
- You can substitute sweet potatoes for a nutrient-rich variation.
- Add black beans or grilled vegetables for extra fiber and color.
- For a lighter version, reduce cheese slightly and load up on fresh toppings.
KEYWORD: Carne Asada Fries, Mexican-American, Loaded Fries, Healthy Comfort Food
