These carne asada fries are a bold, satisfying dish that layers crispy oven-baked potatoes with juicy, citrus-marinated steak and melted Pepper Jack cheese. The fries are seasoned simply with garlic and paprika, creating a sturdy, flavorful base, while the carne asada brings brightness from fresh orange and lime juice along with warm spices and herbs. Every layer is designed to balance richness, crunch, and fresh flavor.
Finished with classic toppings like sour cream, guacamole, diced tomato, cilantro, and cotija cheese, this dish is perfect for sharing or serving as a hearty main. It’s great for casual dinners, game nights, or whenever you’re craving something indulgent and comforting. With a mix of crisp textures and vibrant toppings, these carne asada fries feel both fun and filling without being complicated to make.
Ingredients
Oven-Baked French Fries
- 2 russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Carne Asada
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, minced
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- ½ lb flank steak
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- ½ cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
For Serving
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- 1 tomato, diced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Cotija cheese, grated
Make the French Fries
- Preheat the oven
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the potatoes
- Cut the potatoes into wedges. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Bake
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, turning once if desired, until crispy and golden brown.
Prepare the Carne Asada
- Marinate the steak
- In a medium bowl, combine the salt, pepper, chili powder, oregano, garlic, cilantro, orange juice, and lime juice. Add the flank steak and marinate for 20 minutes.
- Cook the steak
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add the canola oil. Cook the steak for about 3 minutes per side for medium doneness.
- Rest and dice
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 10 minutes. Dice the steak into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble and Serve
- Melt the cheese
- In an ovenproof skillet or baking dish, layer the baked fries, diced carne asada, and shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Broil just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and serve
- Top with sour cream, guacamole, diced tomato, fresh cilantro, and grated cotija cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra-crispy fries, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- Letting the steak rest is essential for juicy carne asada.
- These fries are best enjoyed right away while the cheese is melted.