Carne Asada Fries are a delicious mix of flavors and textures that combine crispy fries, juicy grilled steak, and tasty toppings like cheese, guacamole, and sour cream. This Mexican-American dish, which started in San Diego, has become a favorite across the U.S. In this guide, we will show you how to make the best Carne Asada Fries at home and help you find great places to try them.
What Makes the Top Carne Asada Fries?
The secret to Carne Asada Fries lies in the way its ingredients work together. First, you need crispy fries as the base. Then, you add flavorful carne asada, which is grilled steak marinated in spices and citrus. Finally, you top it with cheese, guacamole, and other fresh ingredients.
If you enjoy loaded snacks like fries, you might also love BBQ Chicken Nachos, which layer chips with smoky BBQ flavors and plenty of cheese.
How to Prepare This Homemade Recipe
Making Carne Asada Fries at home can be simple if you break it into steps. By following these instructions, you’ll have a tasty dish in no time.
Ingredients
To start, you’ll need:
- Russet potatoes
- Skirt steak
- Garlic, lime juice, and cilantro for the marinade
- Cheese (cheddar or cotija)
- Guacamole, sour cream, and optional jalapeños
Steps
- Prepare the Fries
First, cut the potatoes into sticks. Soak them in water to remove starch, which will help them crisp up. Then, fry the potatoes twice—once at low heat to make them soft and again at high heat to make them crispy. - Marinate the Steak
Meanwhile, marinate the steak in a mix of lime juice, orange juice, garlic, and spices. After letting it sit, grill the steak over high heat until it has a smoky flavor. - Assemble the Dish
Once the fries and steak are ready, layer the fries with sliced steak, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings like guacamole and sour cream. - Here’s how to make the best Guacamole to pair with this dish ( optional)
For a light and easy dish to enjoy with your fries, try this Avocado Toast with Cottage Cheese, which is both healthy and satisfying.
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Carne Asada Fries
While these loaded Fries are delicious, they can also be heavy. Thankfully, there are simple ways to make them healthier:
- Bake the Fries: Baking the potatoes instead of frying them will cut down on oil.
- Use Leaner Protein: Swap skirt steak for chicken or a leaner cut of beef.
- Choose Lighter Toppings: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt and reduce the amount of cheese.
If you’re looking for a lighter side dish to pair with your fries, consider this creamy Broccoli Cauliflower Soup. It’s warm, filling, and healthy.
FAQs About Carne Asada Fries
Here are some common questions people ask about this popular dish:
What are Carne Asada Fries made of?
They are made with fries, grilled steak, cheese, and fresh toppings like guacamole and sour cream.
Are Carne Asada Fries authentic Mexican food?
Not exactly. They are a Mexican-American dish created in San Diego.
How do I keep the fries crispy under the toppings?
Assemble the fries and toppings just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Conclusion
Whether you’re enjoying Carne Asada Fries at home or at a restaurant, they are a treat that’s hard to resist. The combination of crispy fries, tender steak, and flavorful toppings creates a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Plus, with so many ways to customize them, there’s always room to experiment.
If you want another flavorful meal idea, check out these Grilled Chicken Wraps, which are quick to make and perfect for lunch or dinner. Don’t wait—try these recipes today and enjoy the delicious flavors!
