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carne asada fries
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5 from 1 vote

Carne Asada Fries

These carne asada fries are one of my favorites of all time! Serve as a shareable appetizer or main dish. The steak is marinated, so it's juicy and tender, and the toppings are just so delicious.
Prep Time35 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 598kcal
Author: Tania

Equipment

Ingredients

Carne asada marinade:

  • 1.5 pounds flank steak excess fat trimmed
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 2 oranges, juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 ½ teaspoonS Kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the fries:

  • 3 russet potatoes cut into ⅓ inch strips, no need to peel
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Toppings:

Instructions

  • Add the flank steak into a large resealable ziploc bag. In a separate bowl, mix the marinade ingredients until evenly combined. Add the marinade into the bag with the steak, and make sure everything is evenly coated. Seal and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, but no more than 3 hours otherwise it will get tough (the acid will break down the meat too much).
  • Optional: Let the marinated steak sit on the counter for 20-30 minutes before cooking so it’s not so cold. This helps with cooking more evenly.
  • Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
  • Season the potatoes with a few generous drizzles of olive oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Arrange on a large sheet pan in a single layer without overcrowding. Roast at 450F for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
  • Meanwhile, cook the steak. Heat a large cast iron skillet or grill pan over high heat. Cook the steak (shake off any excess marinade) for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness. Use a thermometer to be sure. For medium-rare, it’s 130-135F in the center, for medium it’s 140-145 F.
  • Let the rest for 10 minutes. Slice against the grain and then dice into smaller pieces.
  • Once the fries are ready, top with the shredded cheese, and return to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes until melted.
  • Top the fries warm queso, the diced carne asada, and all the toppings of your choice. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Serve as a shareable appetizer or main dish with other sides.
  • Medium rare: 130-135 degrees F. Medium: 140-145 degrees F.
  • Use an instant read thermometer for accuracy.
  • If your flank steak is too thick, you can finish cooking it in the oven at 400F for a few minutes until it reaches the desired temperature.
 
Shortcuts and substitutions:
  • Use frozen french fries. Bake or air fry according to package directions.
  • Flank steak: Skirt steak, sirloin, NY strip.
 
Disclaimer: Nutritional values (per serving) are approximates only.

Nutrition

Calories: 598kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 35g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 113mg | Sodium: 1141mg | Potassium: 1195mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 838IU | Vitamin C: 42mg | Calcium: 368mg | Iron: 4mg