Carne Asada Nachos

These Carne Asada Nachos are a flavor-packed game day favorite, combining tender grilled steak, gooey cheese, and the perfect crunch from tortilla chips. They’re topped with fresh tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro, giving them a zesty twist with every bite.

Perfect for any occasion where you want to indulge in a savory snack, these nachos are easy to prepare and share with friends or family. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious dish to enjoy on the couch, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds – savory and satisfying.

Full Recipe:

• 1 lb carne asada steak, thinly sliced

• 1 bag tortilla chips

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

• 1 cup guacamole

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced

• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup lime juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Season the carne asada with salt, pepper, and lime juice, then grill or sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.

3. On a large baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer.

4. Sprinkle both shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the chips.

5. Place the sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

6. Remove from the oven and top with sliced carne asada, jalapeños, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.

7. Add dollops of guacamole and sour cream on top, and drizzle with additional lime juice for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 550 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origin

Carne Asada Nachos are rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. The concept of nachos dates back to the 1940s, when a chef named Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya first created the dish in Piedras Negras, a small town just across the border from Eagle Pass, Texas. The original version of nachos was made with tortilla chips, melted cheese, and jalapeños, and it quickly became a beloved snack across North America.

Adding carne asada – a grilled beef steak – to nachos brings a deeper, smokier flavor that complements the cheese and other toppings perfectly. Carne asada itself is a Mexican dish, traditionally made by marinating and grilling beef, usually flank or skirt steak. It is often served with rice, beans, or in tacos, and its rich flavor makes it an ideal addition to nachos.

Though nachos can vary in toppings depending on where they’re made, carne asada nachos are a popular variation found throughout the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The use of carne asada adds a hearty element to the dish, turning it from a simple snack into a full meal that’s perfect for sharing.

Variations and Adaptations

Like many dishes with deep cultural roots, carne asada nachos come in many variations. Depending on the region or personal preference, toppings can range from the basic guacamole, sour cream, and salsa to more adventurous ingredients like black beans, sautéed bell peppers, or even a drizzle of spicy chipotle crema.

In some versions, the carne asada is marinated in a combination of lime, garlic, and chili powder to add even more flavor. Some people also prefer their nachos with a combination of meats – for example, swapping in grilled chicken or adding carnitas (slow-cooked pork) alongside the steak.

Another common variation is adding a layer of refried beans or a sprinkle of pickled onions to elevate the flavor and texture. In Mexico, you might find a more traditional approach with minimal cheese and simple toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

For those looking for a healthier twist, try substituting some of the toppings with lighter options such as low-fat cheese, a dollop of Greek yogurt in place of sour cream, or using baked tortilla chips rather than fried. The beauty of carne asada nachos is how versatile they are, making it easy to adapt the dish to fit your taste or dietary preferences.

Nutritional Information

Carne Asada Nachos are a calorie-dense dish, but they’re also rich in protein and healthy fats, especially when made with lean cuts of beef and fresh toppings. The nutritional value will vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion size, but let’s break down a typical serving:

• Calories: Approximately 550-600 calories per serving (depending on cheese and meat portion)

• Protein: 30-35 grams of protein (thanks to the carne asada)

• Carbohydrates: 45-50 grams (from the tortilla chips and any added beans or vegetables)

• Fat: 25-30 grams (from the cheese, carne asada, and sour cream)

• Fiber: 3-4 grams (from the beans, veggies, and tortilla chips)

When looking at the micronutrients, carne asada nachos provide a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin A: From fresh toppings like tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro.

• Vitamin C: Found in the fresh lime, cilantro, and tomatoes, which help support your immune system.

• Iron: The carne asada is a good source of iron, especially beneficial if you are incorporating more red meat into your diet.

However, due to the high calorie and fat content, it’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation or adjust it based on your dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Carne Asada Nachos are best served as a fun, shareable appetizer or snack, but they can easily be made into a full meal. Pair them with a refreshing Mexican beer, such as a crisp Corona or a light Modelo Especial, to enhance the flavors. The acidity from the lime and the heat from the jalapeños complement the beer perfectly, making for an ideal pairing.

If you’re serving these nachos as a meal, consider pairing them with a light, tangy side salad to balance out the richness. A simple Mexican corn salad with lime, chili powder, and cotija cheese could be a great addition. Alternatively, a small bowl of Mexican street corn (elote) can add a smoky sweetness that complements the grilled carne asada.

For dessert, consider serving a simple dish like churros with a chocolate dipping sauce, or some fresh fruit with a drizzle of honey and chili powder for an added kick.

Tips and Tricks for Success

1. Use Thinly Sliced Carne Asada: Make sure the carne asada is sliced thinly against the grain. This will help ensure that each bite of steak is tender and flavorful.

2. Toast Your Chips: If you’re using store-bought tortilla chips, give them a quick toast in the oven to help them hold up better under the cheese and toppings. This will prevent them from becoming soggy too quickly.

3. Melt the Cheese Properly: Make sure you use a mix of cheeses (like cheddar and Monterey Jack) for maximum meltiness and flavor. Place the chips under the broiler for just a few minutes to get that perfect bubbly cheese crust.

4. Don’t Overload: While it’s tempting to pile on all your favorite toppings, too many ingredients can make the nachos difficult to eat and messier to serve. Keep a balance of cheese, meat, and fresh toppings to make every bite perfect.

5. Make Ahead: To save time, you can prep the carne asada in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to assemble. You can also prepare your toppings ahead of time, so assembling the nachos is quick and easy.

Potential Health Benefits

While carne asada nachos are typically a treat and not a health food, there are a few health benefits associated with the ingredients:

• Protein-Rich Carne Asada: Beef is a great source of complete protein, which helps build and repair tissues in the body. It also provides essential nutrients like B vitamins (particularly B12), which are important for red blood cell production and maintaining healthy nerve function.

• Fresh Veggies: The fresh toppings, such as tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeños, provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help promote overall health. The tomatoes provide lycopene, an antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

• Lime and Cilantro: The lime adds vitamin C, which supports your immune system, while cilantro is rich in antioxidants and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.

That said, for a more health-conscious approach, try making lighter substitutions, such as using low-fat cheese, baked chips, or omitting sour cream for a healthier, yet still tasty version.

Conclusion

Carne Asada Nachos are more than just a snack – they’re a fun, flavorful dish that brings people together. The balance of grilled steak, melted cheese, and fresh toppings makes for a satisfying treat that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy night in, carne asada nachos are always a hit.

Try making them at home and customize them to your liking. Don’t forget to invite some friends over to share in the deliciousness – nachos are always better when shared!