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.

📝 Ingredients

• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoonS Kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 russet potatoes (cut into 1/3 inch strips, no need to peel)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
• Pico de gallo
• Guacamole
• Sour cream
• Queso (your favorite brand)
• Lime wedges

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Add 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).
2. 2Optional: 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.
3. 3Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
4. 4Season 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.
5. 5Meanwhile, 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.
6. 6Let the rest for 10 minutes. Slice against the grain and then dice into smaller pieces.
7. 7Once the fries are ready, top with the shredded cheese, and return to the oven for another 5 to 7 minutes until melted.
8. 8Top the fries warm queso, the diced carne asada, and all the toppings of your choice. Enjoy!