Pin it
This hearty Philly Steak Cheese Fries dish transforms a beloved sandwich into an irresistible skillet meal perfect for game day gatherings or whenever comfort food cravings strike. The combination of seasoned steak, melty cheese, and crispy fries creates the ultimate indulgence that never fails to impress.
I first made these loaded fries when hosting friends for a football game, and they disappeared faster than any other dish I've ever served. Now it's requested at every gathering, and I've perfected the balance between crispy fries and gooey cheese.
Ingredients
- Thinly sliced steak: about 450g use ribeye or sirloin for best flavor and tenderness
- Garlic salt: adds savory depth without needing fresh garlic
- Ground black pepper: freshly ground provides the best flavor punch
- Green bell pepper: adds essential crunch and slight sweetness
- Onion: white or yellow works equally well for authentic Philly flavor
- White American cheese: melts beautifully and gives that classic cheesesteak taste
- Frozen waffle cut fries: the ridges hold toppings better than regular fries
- Olive oil: for sautéing helps achieve perfect browning on the steak
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Set your oven to 220°C to ensure it's fully heated when you're ready to melt the cheese. This high temperature helps crisp the edges of your fries while melting the cheese to perfection.
- Cook The Steak:
- Heat your oven safe skillet until it's nearly smoking, then add olive oil. Place your thinly sliced steak in a single layer if possible, seasoning generously with garlic salt and black pepper. Let it sear for about 45 seconds before stirring to ensure proper browning. The meat should cook quickly in about 3 minutes total since it's sliced thin. Remove and set aside while still slightly pink as it will continue cooking later.
- Sauté The Vegetables:
- Keep a tablespoon of the flavorful cooking liquid in your skillet it contains essential beef flavor. Add your sliced bell pepper and onion, cooking until they soften but still maintain some texture, about 5 minutes. The peppers should still have a slight crunch while the onions should become translucent. This textural contrast is key to authentic Philly flavor.
- Assemble The Layers:
- Remove your skillet from heat and arrange the waffle fries in an even layer. The pattern matters less than ensuring even coverage. Place four cheese slices over the fries, then distribute half the steak and vegetables. Repeat with remaining steak and vegetables, finishing with a layer of cheese on top. This layering technique ensures cheese melts throughout, not just on top.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Place your assembled skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the cheese is completely melted and starting to bubble around the edges. The top should have spots of golden brown for maximum flavor.
Pin it
The waffle fries are my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered through multiple attempts that their sturdy structure holds up to the toppings far better than regular fries, which can quickly become soggy. The deep ridges capture bits of steak and melted cheese, ensuring every bite delivers maximum flavor.
Optimal Steak Preparation
For truly authentic Philly flavor, partially freeze your steak for about 30 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to achieve paper thin slices that cook quickly and remain tender. Ribeye is traditional, but sirloin offers a leaner alternative without sacrificing too much flavor. Avoid overcooking the steak during the initial sauté the thin slices will continue cooking when the dish goes into the oven.
Cheese Variations
While White American cheese provides the most authentic Philly cheesesteak experience with its incomparable melt, this recipe welcomes experimentation. Provolone offers a slightly tangier profile, while a combination of mozzarella and sharp cheddar provides excellent stretch and flavor depth. For heat lovers, pepper jack creates a spicy variation that pairs beautifully with the savory steak. Whatever cheese you choose, make sure it's sliced rather than shredded for that perfect melt.
Serving Suggestions
These loaded fries shine brightest when served immediately while still hot from the oven. Consider setting out small bowls of additional toppings like hot sauce, pickled jalapeños, or creamy horseradish sauce to let guests customize their portions. For a complete meal, pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness. If serving as an appetizer, provide plenty of napkins these delicious fries definitely qualify as satisfyingly messy finger food.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use any cut of steak that can be sliced thinly and cooks quickly, such as flank or sirloin steak.
- → What type of cheese works best for this dish?
White American cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture, but you can also use provolone or cheddar for variation.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, swap the steak for sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and follow the same layering steps.
- → What are some good garnishes for this meal?
Fresh parsley or chives work well to add brightness. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of spice.
- → How can I make the fries extra crispy?
Ensure the fries are spread in a single layer on the skillet and bake according to the package instructions for maximum crispness before layering the toppings.