Loaded Carne Asada Fries

Have you ever tasted a dish so satisfying that it instantly elevates your dining experience? According to a 2023 survey by the National Restaurant Association, over 65% of diners crave loaded fries as a comfort food option, especially when topped with savory meats and rich sauces. Loaded carne asada fries have risen to the top of this trend, combining crispy fries with tender, marinated steak, melted cheese, and an array of toppings. This recipe will challenge your beliefs about traditional fries and show you how to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s get started on these loaded carne asada fries!

Ingredients List

To create the perfect loaded carne asada fries, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients that work harmoniously together. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Fries:

• 4 large russet potatoes (or frozen fries for convenience)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Carne Asada:

• 1.5 pounds flank steak (or skirt steak; marinated)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• ½ cup guacamole (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
• ¼ cup pico de gallo (or diced tomatoes)
• ¼ cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Sensory tip: The aroma of marinated steak sizzling on the grill will make your kitchen feel like a fiesta!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix lime juice, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the flank steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
Tip: If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will impart some flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the russet potatoes into fries, toss them in olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Pro tip: For extra crispiness, soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch.

Step 3: Bake the Fries

Bake the fries in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Actionable tip: Keep an eye on them to prevent burning; ovens can vary in temperature.

Step 4: Cook the Carne Asada

While the fries are baking, heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness.
Expert advice: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing to retain its juices.

Step 5: Slice the Steak

Thinly slice the cooked carne asada against the grain. This ensures tenderness in each bite.
Personalization tip: You can also chop the steak into smaller pieces if preferred.

Step 6: Assemble the Loaded Fries

Once the fries are cooked, remove them from the oven and top them with the sliced carne asada. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Serving suggestion: Add a squeeze of lime juice over the top for an extra kick!

Step 7: Add Toppings and Serve

Remove the loaded fries from the oven and add guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately, and enjoy!
Tip: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (based on 1/4 of the recipe):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	650
Protein	38g
Total Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	61g
Fiber	6g
Sugars	3g
Sodium	900mg

Data insight: This dish is hearty and filling, making it perfect for sharing or as a satisfying main course.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

You can easily adapt this recipe for various dietary needs without losing flavor:

• Lower-Calorie Option: Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a healthier alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that all sauces and toppings are gluten-free.
• Vegan Version: Substitute the carne asada with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or broth to control sodium levels.

Creative idea: Add black beans or corn to the toppings for extra nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Make your loaded carne asada fries even more appealing with these serving ideas:

• As a Party Platter: Serve in a large dish for sharing, allowing everyone to customize their toppings.
• With Dipping Sauces: Offer additional sauces like chipotle ranch or salsa verde for variety.
• Garnished with Fresh Ingredients: Enhance with fresh avocado slices or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added flavor.

Personal touch: A side of tortilla chips and salsa pairs perfectly for a complete snack spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe, some common pitfalls can affect your results:

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Give the steak enough time to absorb the flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Ensure fries have enough space to crisp up; otherwise, they will steam rather than bake.
• Skipping the Resting Time for Meat: Allowing the steak to rest is crucial for juicy, tender slices.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your cheese is at room temperature for better melting.

Experiential advice: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving to ensure a balanced flavor profile.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your loaded carne asada fries fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked carne asada separately for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness, adding a splash of water to the fries to prevent drying.

Best practice: Avoid microwaving loaded fries as they can become soggy.

Conclusion

Loaded carne asada fries are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together bold flavors and textures in every bite. This easy recipe is perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a comforting meal at home. Try it out, share your feedback in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more tasty recipes and cooking inspiration!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the carne asada and fries separately and assemble them just before serving.

Q2: What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite cheese!

Q3: How can I make this dish spicier?

Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the toppings for an extra kick.

Q4: Can I use frozen fries?

Absolutely! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, then top with carne asada and cheese.