Steak Nachos with Carne Asada

Did you know that nachos are the number one decision for game evenings & parties for 75% of individuals? But what if you could level them up? Enter steak nachos with carne asada — a savory version that elevates a basic snack to the burst of umami we need in our lives. Whether you’re throwing a party or just in the mood for something hearty, you’re going to impress with this recipe. Let’s dive in and take your nacho game up a notch!

Ingredients List

To make the perfect steak nachos with carne asada, you’ll need a few key ingredients to bring the dish to life. These ingredients combine to create the ultimate fusion of textures and flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.

Essential Ingredients:

• Carne Asada (Steak): 1 lb of flank steak or skirt steak, marinated for at least 2 hours. This is the star of the dish—tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
• Tortilla Chips: 8 cups of your favorite tortilla chips. Opt for thicker chips for better crunch and durability under the toppings.
• Cheese: 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. For extra richness, you can blend both types of cheese.
• Guacamole: 1 cup, fresh and homemade for the best flavor.
• Sour Cream: 1 cup, for that creamy contrast to the spicy carne asada.
• Pico de Gallo: 1 cup, fresh and chunky. This will add a burst of freshness and brightness.
• Jalapeños: 2 fresh, sliced thinly for heat.
• Cilantro: Fresh, chopped for garnish. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lime: 1 lime, cut into wedges for squeezing over the nachos.

Optional Ingredients:

• Pickled Red Onions: For an extra tangy kick.
• Black Beans: 1 cup, cooked and drained. This adds a bit of heartiness and fiber to the dish.
• Mexican Crema: If you want to make the nachos extra indulgent.

Feel free to experiment with these ingredients, depending on your taste preferences. For a healthier twist, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt or use a reduced-fat cheese.

Timing

One of the best things about steak nachos with carne asada is how quickly they come together. Here’s a breakdown of the time commitment:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (including slicing the steak and prepping the toppings).
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (for grilling the carne asada and assembling the nachos).
• Total Time: 30 minutes, which is 20% faster than the average nacho recipe! You’ll have a full plate of sizzling nachos ready to go in under half an hour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making steak nachos with carne asada is easy when you follow these simple steps. Here’s how to bring the dish to life:

Step 1: Marinate the Carne Asada

Start by marinating the carne asada for at least 2 hours (or overnight if you have time). Use a marinade of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt. The longer the steak marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will be.

Step 2: Grill the Carne Asada

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill the carne asada for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and your preferred doneness. For medium rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C). Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Nacho Base

Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet or oven-safe platter. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chips in a single layer for an even crunch.

Step 4: Layer the Nachos

Top the chips with a generous amount of shredded cheese. Add the sliced carne asada on top, ensuring each chip gets its fair share of meat. You can add some black beans here if you’re using them.

Step 5: Bake the Nachos

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Once the nachos are out of the oven, it’s time to add your fresh toppings. Layer the guacamole, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro and squeeze lime wedges over the top for a burst of citrus flavor.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your steak nachos with carne asada immediately, while the cheese is still gooey and the carne asada is perfectly tender.

Nutritional Information

Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional breakdown of steak nachos with carne asada. While this dish is a delicious indulgence, it’s also packed with protein and flavor.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1/4 of recipe)
Calories	550
Protein	30g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	53g
Fiber	5g
Sodium	700mg
Vitamin C	20% DV
Calcium	15% DV

If you’re watching your calorie intake or following a specific diet, consider adjusting the portion sizes or swapping some ingredients to meet your needs.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make steak nachos with carne asada a bit healthier, here are some alternatives:

• Lean Beef or Chicken: Swap the carne asada for lean cuts of beef or grilled chicken breast to reduce the fat content.
• Baked Chips: Use baked tortilla chips instead of fried ones for a lower-calorie option.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for extra protein and probiotics.
• Dairy-Free Cheese: If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, use dairy-free cheese alternatives to maintain the cheese flavor without the dairy.

These modifications will help you enjoy the flavors of your favorite nachos while making the recipe more diet-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

Steak nachos with carne asada are perfect for a wide range of occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to take your dish up a notch:

• Game Night: Serve the nachos as the centerpiece of a casual game-night spread. Pair them with ice-cold beverages like beer or margaritas.
• Taco Tuesday: Transform your nachos into a taco bar by offering sides of fresh salsa, guacamole, and pickled vegetables.
• Family Dinner: Make a fun, shareable meal for the family by doubling the recipe and serving the nachos in a large dish.
• Appetizer: These nachos also work great as a starter at a dinner party or BBQ.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though steak nachos with carne asada are easy to make, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Steak: Overcooked carne asada can be tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Soggy Nachos: Don’t overload your chips with toppings before baking. Too many wet ingredients can make the chips soggy.
• Uneven Layering: Make sure the cheese and toppings are evenly distributed across the chips for a balanced bite.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll ensure that your nachos come out perfectly every time.

Storage Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat your steak nachos with carne asada:

• Storage: Place leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid storing the guacamole and sour cream on the nachos; keep them separate.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the nachos under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly again.

Conclusion

Steak nachos with carne asada are the perfect combination of savory, cheesy, and satisfying flavors. They’re quick, customizable, and guaranteed to impress your guests or family. Whether you’re hosting a game night or treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe offers a mouthwatering twist on traditional nachos. Try it today, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments below. Subscribe to our blog for more recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

1. Can I make steak nachos with chicken instead of carne asada?

Yes, you can easily swap carne asada for grilled chicken for a lighter option.

2. How can I make these nachos spicier?

Add more jalapeños, use a spicy salsa, or drizzle some hot sauce on top of the nachos for an extra kick.

3. Can I make these nachos ahead of time?

You can prep the steak and toppings ahead of time, but we recommend assembling and baking the nachos just before serving to keep them crispy.