Description
Loaded Carne Asada Fries with Nacho Dust are a bold and flavorful dish featuring crispy fries topped with tender, smoky carne asada steak, a melty shredded cheese blend, and a tangy nacho dust seasoning. Finished with fresh toppings like jalapeños, cilantro, green onions, guacamole, and sour cream, this crowd-pleasing recipe delivers a perfect balance of textures and spices, ideal for game day, family meals, or any occasion craving a satisfying comfort food with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Fries
- Frozen or fresh fries, quantity as needed
Carne Asada
- Carne asada steak, marinated (lime juice, garlic, spices), about 1 lb
Cheese Blend
- Shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 cup
Nacho Dust Seasoning
- Chili powder, 1 tsp
- Ground cumin, 1 tsp
- Garlic powder, 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper (optional), a pinch
Fresh Toppings
- Diced jalapeños, 1-2 tbsp
- Chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp
- Chopped green onions (scallions), 2 tbsp
- Guacamole, 1/2 cup
Additional
- Sour cream or crema, 1/2 cup
Instructions
- Prepare the Fries: Cook your frozen or fresh fries according to package instructions or preferred method until golden and crispy, ensuring they can hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Cook the Carne Asada: Grill or sear the thinly sliced carne asada steak marinated in lime juice, garlic, and spices until perfectly charred but still juicy. Allow the meat to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Layer the Fries and Meat: Spread the hot fries evenly on a large platter. Immediately sprinkle a generous amount of the shredded cheese blend over the fries while they are still hot to allow perfect melting. Top the melted cheese with warm carne asada slices for a hearty build.
- Add Nacho Dust and Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the prepared nacho dust seasoning over the loaded fries, making sure every portion gets the tangy, smoky flavor. Then add fresh toppings such as diced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and green onions to brighten and enhance the dish.
- Final Touches: Finish by adding dollops of sour cream or crema and spoonfuls of creamy guacamole on top. Serve immediately while everything is hot to enjoy the ideal combination of flavors and textures.
Notes
- Use high-quality, well-marinated carne asada steak for the best flavor.
- Rest cooked steak for at least 5 minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in.
- Layer cheese while fries are hot for maximum melt and gooey texture.
- Make your own nacho dust by blending chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Serve loaded fries fresh to maintain crispiness; reheating is best done in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: loaded fries, carne asada, nacho dust, Mexican recipe, cheesy fries, appetizer, game day food