Carne asada fries are the ultimate indulgent fusion of Mexican and American comfort food — crispy golden fries topped with juicy grilled steak, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. This restaurant-style dish is hearty, bold, and absolutely loaded with flavor. Whether served as a party appetizer or a full-on meal, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of crispy, savory, creamy, and spicy. Carne asada fries are easy to customize and can be made entirely from scratch or with a few shortcuts. It’s ideal for game day, weekend dinners, or when you’re just craving something over-the-top delicious. You can prep the steak ahead of time and assemble the fries fresh for quick serving.

ingredients

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

For the carne asada:

Flank steak or skirt steak
Olive oil
Lime juice
Garlic, minced
Cilantro, chopped
Ground cumin
Chili powder
Salt and pepper
Optional: orange juice or soy sauce for added depth

For the fries:

Frozen or fresh French fries (thick-cut or crinkle-cut recommended)
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)

Toppings:

Guacamole or sliced avocado
Sour cream or Mexican crema
Pico de gallo or salsa
Chopped green onions or cilantro
Pickled jalapeños (optional)
Cotija cheese (optional for garnish)

directions

Marinate the steak: Combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl or zip-top bag. Add the steak and marinate for at least 1 hour, up to overnight.
Cook the steak: Grill or sear the steak over high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain and chop into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the fries: Bake or fry the fries according to package instructions or until golden and crispy.
Assemble the fries: Spread the hot fries on a baking sheet or serving platter. Top with chopped carne asada and a generous amount of shredded cheese.
Melt the cheese: Return the tray to the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese, or microwave briefly if using a microwave-safe dish.
Add toppings: Finish with guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, and your favorite garnishes. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35–45 minutes (excluding marination)

Variations

Make it spicy: Add hot sauce, sliced jalapeños, or use a spicy salsa.
Use waffle fries or curly fries: For a fun twist on texture.
Load it up: Add beans, corn, or even queso dip for extra richness.
Make it lighter: Use baked fries and top with grilled veggies.
Try with tater tots: Swap the fries for crispy tots for a fun variation.

storage/reheating

Carne asada fries are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back crispness. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as fries may become soggy.

FAQs

What cut of meat is best for carne asada?

Flank steak or skirt steak are traditional — they’re flavorful and tender when marinated and cooked properly.

Can I make the steak ahead of time?

Yes, cook and chop the steak in advance, then reheat it before assembling the fries.

Can I use store-bought fries?

Absolutely. Use your favorite frozen fries to save time.

What cheese melts best for carne asada fries?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a shredded Mexican blend all melt beautifully and add great flavor.

Are carne asada fries spicy?

They can be — it depends on your marinade and toppings. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, skip the steak and add grilled veggies, black beans, or a plant-based meat alternative.

Do I have to grill the steak?

Grilling adds smoky flavor, but pan-searing works just as well indoors.

How do I keep fries crispy?

Serve immediately after assembling and avoid overcrowding when baking or frying.

What sauces go well with carne asada fries?

Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chipotle mayo, or even a drizzle of queso.

Can I freeze carne asada fries?

Not recommended — fries and toppings don’t freeze or reheat well together.

Conclusion

Carne asada fries are the ultimate comfort food — rich, bold, and piled high with irresistible toppings. Whether you’re making them for a party, a late-night snack, or just a fun dinner, they hit every flavor note from salty and savory to creamy and zesty. Make a batch and dig in — this recipe is sure to be a new favorite.

Carne Asada Fries