I don’t know if it’s just because I’m from San Diego, but Loaded Carne Asada Fries are legendary. That, and a California burrito. They originated in San Diego in the ‘90s at local taco shops. If you don’t know what a taco shop is, and yes, some people don’t know – it is a fast food Mexican restaurant. The kind where you order at the front or get it to go. Sometimes they have a drive thru too. I remember using taco shop to someone not from San Diego and they didn’t know what I was saying.
These are such a comfort food of mine so you know I had to make a macro friendly version. These can easily be fit into your day for a total of 600 calories. The carbs, proteins and fats can easily be adjusted to what’s best for you.
This is definitely a family and friend favorite. Also, a huge favorite of mine. I’m craving it again writing this blog post. It would be perfect for a party as well. You can have a topping station and everyone can assemble their own plate. Like a taco bar!
Okay, funny story. Today, I made these with tater tots but I really prefer them with regular fries and traditionally, that’s how they’re made. But Peter accidentally used the rest of the fries for the girls dinner the other night. Oh well!
Loaded Carne Asada Fries
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tater Tots or Fries
- Flank Steak
- Sharp Cheddar
- Cilantro
- Chopped Onion
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Avocado
- Chili Powder
- Onion Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Garlic Salt
- Sour Cream
- Tapatio
- Sheet pan
What kind of meat is Carne Asada?
Carne Asada is grilled beef, thinly sliced and usually used in tacos or burritos. It is made with either flank or skirt steak.
Fries or Tater Tots?
Definitely fries. Like I said above, I unexpectedly ran out of my fries while making them and was on a tight schedule. Using fries makes it a little over 100 calories less than the tater tots. Since these are so customizable you can do sweet potato fries, regular fries, tater tots or even tortilla chips – making it Carne Asada nachos.
Toppings
You can totally do what I do or your own thing. Traditionally, these are topped with pico, guac and sour cream.
Do I have to use Carne Asada?
Nope! In my opinion it’s the best but you can do chicken, shrimp, beans or no meat.
Is this good to meal prep?
Since we are using fries or tater tots, I would say no. Any dish involving fries is always best eaten fresh. You can save some time and keep the toppings in your fridge separately, reheat when it’s time and then make fresh fries each time.
Directions:
- First, add a little olive oil to your steak and season both sides.
- On medium high heat, cook the steak for 5-6 minutes or until internal temp is 145.
- Remove from the heat and let meat rest for 10-15 minutes.
- In the meantime, air fry your tots or french fries according to the package or in oven.
- Next, top your fries with cheese and add back into the oven for a few minutes.
- Now, time to assemble. Add your cheesy tots or fries to a plate and add your toppings of choice. I used onion, cilantro, avocado and Tapatio.
If you’re a fan of these or prefer something more low carb, you have to try my Loaded Low Carb Cauliflower Nachos.
Loaded Carne Asada Fries
Ingredients
Instructions
-
First, add a little olive oil to your steak and season both sides.
-
On medium high heat, cook the steak for 5-6 minutes or until internal temp is 145.
-
Remove from the heat and let meat rest for 10-15 minutes.
-
In the meantime, air fry your tots or french fries according to the package or in oven.
-
Next, top your fries with cheese and add back into the oven for a few minutes.
-
Now, time to assemble. Add your cheesy tots or fries to a plate and add your toppings of choice. I used onion, cilantro, avocado and Tapatio.
Serving Size 1
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 600kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 31g48%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Protein 45g90%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.