Carne Asada Fries

Carne Asada Fries are a mouthwatering fusion of crispy fries topped with juicy, marinated steak, melted cheese, creamy guacamole, and a drizzle of sour cream. This indulgent dish combines the best of Mexican and American comfort food, creating a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game day, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something deliciously over the top, Carne Asada Fries deliver. You’ll love the layers of flavor, from the seasoned fries to the tender carne asada, plus all your favorite toppings. It’s customizable, easy to make at home, and far better than anything you’ll get at a drive-thru.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Flank or skirt steak
• Olive oil
• Fresh lime juice
• Garlic, minced
• Jalapeño, chopped
• Cilantro, chopped
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Frozen or homemade French fries
• Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Pico de gallo or salsa
• Green onions (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Marinate the steak: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add steak and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. Cook the steak: Grill or sear the steak over high heat for 3–4 minutes per side or until your desired doneness. Let it rest, then slice thinly against the grain.
3. Cook the fries: Prepare fries according to package instructions or deep-fry homemade fries until golden and crispy.
4. Assemble the fries: Spread hot fries on a large plate or baking sheet. Top with cheese and melt in the oven for a few minutes.
5. Add toppings: Layer on the sliced carne asada, guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, and green onions.
6. Serve immediately: Enjoy while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1 hour (or overnight for best results)
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Cheese options: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack or queso blanco for extra heat or creaminess.
• Fries base: Use sweet potato fries or waffle fries for a twist.
• Protein swap: Use grilled chicken, pulled pork, or even shrimp instead of steak.
• Add beans: Black beans or refried beans make it heartier and add more fiber.
• Spicy version: Top with sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread the fries and toppings on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. For best texture, avoid microwaving as it can make the fries soggy.

FAQs

What kind of steak is best for carne asada?

Flank steak or skirt steak is traditionally used for carne asada due to its rich flavor and tenderness when marinated and sliced properly.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prep the carne asada ahead of time by marinating and cooking it, then store it in the fridge until ready to assemble the fries.

Are Carne Asada Fries gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free fries and ensure all your toppings (like sauces) are gluten-free, then yes, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

Can I bake the fries instead of frying?

Absolutely. Baked fries work great for a lighter version—just make sure they’re crispy enough to hold up to the toppings.

What cheese melts best for this dish?

A Mexican blend or cheddar melts beautifully, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or any cheese that melts smoothly.

How spicy is carne asada?

It has a mild to moderate spice level depending on the amount of jalapeño used. You can adjust the heat to your liking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended as fries tend to become mushy after freezing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, just control the spice level and maybe leave off jalapeños or hot sauce when serving to kids.

What’s a good side dish for Carne Asada Fries?

A simple side salad or Mexican street corn makes a great pairing without overwhelming the dish.

Can I use store-bought carne asada?

Yes, if you’re short on time, store-prepped carne asada from your local butcher or grocery store is a great shortcut.

Conclusion

Carne Asada Fries are a rich, satisfying dish that combines bold flavors, crispy textures, and customizable toppings into one unforgettable plate. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main course or a shared appetizer, they bring restaurant-quality indulgence straight to your home kitchen. Try them once, and they just might become your new favorite comfort food.

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