There’s something undeniably magical about carne asada fries. Picture this: crispy golden fries, topped with savory marinated beef, gooey melted cheese, fresh guacamole, and a sprinkle of zesty jalapeños. It’s like a fiesta on your plate, and trust me, your taste buds are going to dance the cha-cha when they get a taste of this delicious creation.
I remember the first time I tried carne asada fries at a food truck festival. I was skeptical at first—fries and steak? What kind of culinary wizardry was this? But one bite in, and I was hooked. Whether it’s game day or just a Tuesday night craving, these beauties are the perfect indulgence to share (or not!) with friends and family.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Carne asada fries are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion
- The flavor explosion from the seasoned beef paired with melty cheese is unforgettable
- Their stunning presentation is sure to impress anyone at your dinner table
- Versatile enough for customization; you can add toppings like sour cream or pico de gallo based on preference
The last time I made carne asada fries, my friends couldn’t stop raving about them—they were practically licking the plate!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for frying; their starchy texture gives you that ideal crispy finish.
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Carne Asada Steak: Choose flank or skirt steak for optimal tenderness and flavor after marinating.
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Shredded Cheese: A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar adds delightful creaminess when melted on top.
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Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole brings a creamy element that complements the spiciness beautifully.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy richness that balances all the flavors.
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Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled jalapeños offer heat and flavor; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides brightness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare the Fries: Begin by washing and peeling your russet potatoes. Cut them into thick strips resembling classic steak fries. Rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch for ultimate crispiness.
Fry Those Bad Boys!: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in batches of potato strips and fry until golden brown and crispy—about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels and season with salt immediately.
Marinate the Steak: In a bowl, combine lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add your carne asada steak to marinate for at least 30 minutes—this infusion of flavor is crucial!
Sear the Steak: Heat a skillet over high heat until sizzling hot. Remove the steak from marinade (discard marinade) and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side until desired doneness is achieved. Let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain.
Assemble Your Masterpiece!: On a large platter or baking sheet, layer your crispy fries with slices of carne asada evenly spread out. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and place under broiler until bubbly—just watch closely!
Add Your Toppings: Once melted perfection has been achieved, pile on guacamole, jalapeños, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. Dig into this mountain of goodness right away while it’s hot!
Carne asada fries are more than just food; they represent celebration! So grab some friends or family members because sharing is caring—even if you secretly want it all to yourself! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- Carne asada fries are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining savory beef with crispy fries
- The aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist
- This dish is perfect for gatherings, keeping everyone happy and satisfied!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the carne asada for at least an hour. While it rests, fry the potatoes until golden and crispy. Cook the meat on high heat for juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap traditional toppings; use guacamole, jalapeños, or even pineapple salsa for a unique twist. Experimenting can lead to surprising flavor combinations that delight!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy, avoiding sogginess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect carne asada fries, use fresh ingredients and ensure your oil is hot enough before frying the potatoes
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures even cooking and crispiness
- Remember to slice the meat against the grain for tenderness
Sharing these carne asada fries with friends made my last game night unforgettable. Their delighted faces were all the feedback I needed!
FAQ
What type of beef is best for carne asada fries?
Flank steak or skirt steak works best; they’re flavorful and tender when cooked properly.
Can I make carne asada fries gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your seasoning and sauces are certified gluten-free before using them.
How do I keep my fries crispy?
Fry them twice: once at a lower temperature, then again at a higher temperature right before serving.
Carne Asada Fries
Carne asada fries are a mouthwatering fusion of crispy fries and savory marinated beef, topped with melted cheese, fresh guacamole, and zesty jalapeños. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for game nights, parties, or any time you crave a delicious indulgence. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, these fries create a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 Russet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 1 lb flank or skirt steak
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup guacamole
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup sliced jalapeños
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the fries: Wash, peel, and cut russet potatoes into thick strips. Rinse in cold water to remove excess starch.
- Fry the potatoes: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry potato strips in batches until golden brown (5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
- Marinate the steak: In a bowl, mix lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Sear the steak: Heat a skillet over high heat. Sear steak for about 3-4 minutes per side until desired doneness. Let rest before slicing thinly against the grain.
- Assemble: Layer crispy fries with sliced carne asada, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and broil until bubbly.
- Top: Add guacamole, jalapeños, sour cream, and cilantro before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 66g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
