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Carne Asada Fries

Sizzling Carne Asada Fries combine marinated steak, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy fries, creating a delightful dish perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 750

Ingredients
  

For the marinade
  • 1/4 cup lime juice Fresh and zesty to brighten up the flavors.
  • 1/4 cup orange juice Provides sweetness and acidity.
  • 1/4 cup olive oil Helps to tenderize the steak.
  • 4 teaspoons minced garlic Aromatic and savory.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper Adds depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin Introduces smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano Imparts floral notes.
Main ingredients
  • 1 1/2 pounds skirt steak Juicy and flavorful.
  • 1 (16-20 ounce) bag frozen seasoned fries Crispy and golden.
  • 3 tablespoons butter Forms the base of the cheese sauce.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps thicken the cheese sauce.
  • 1 1/4 cups milk Enriches the sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt Adds garlic flavor to the sauce.
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated Melty and flavorful.
Toppings
  • Avocado For freshness.
  • Pico de Gallo Adds color and flavor.
  • Sour Cream Creamy topping.
  • Cilantro Fresh herb topping.
  • Sliced Jalapeno For added heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, cumin, and oregano.
  2. Place the skirt steak in a zip-top bag or a shallow container and pour the marinade over it. Seal tightly and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Cooking
  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated steak for 3-4 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F – 130°F for medium-rare.
  2. Transfer the cooked steak to a plate, cover with foil, and let it rest while you prepare the fries and cheese sauce.
  3. Bake the frozen seasoned fries according to the package instructions until golden brown and crispy.
Cheese Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 2 minutes.
  2. Gradually add the milk and garlic salt, whisking constantly for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  3. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese in two portions, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Assembly
  1. Slice the rested steak into bite-sized pieces against the grain.
  2. Remove the fries from the oven, drizzle with cheese sauce, layer with sliced steak, and top with more cheese sauce.
  3. Add diced avocado, pico de gallo, sour cream, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños as desired.

Notes

For maximum flavor, let the steak marinate overnight. Consider other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for variations. Store leftovers in separate containers and enjoy within 3 days.