Description: A decadent and irresistible twist on classic fries, these Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries combine crispy, golden fries with tender, savory steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and a generous blanket of melted cheese. This indulgent dish is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun, satisfying meal. Every bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for more. This recipe is relatively simple to make and can be customized to your liking with different cheeses, toppings, and even different cuts of steak. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb frozen French fries (choose your favorite cut: regular, steak fries, or curly fries all work well)
- 1 lb thinly sliced steak (ribeye or flank steak are recommended for their flavor and tenderness)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), diced
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded (for a classic Philly Cheesesteak flavor)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (adds a creamy, melty texture)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: Cheese sauce (for an extra cheesy experience, use your favorite store-bought or homemade cheese sauce)
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
Preparation:
This recipe is all about layering flavors and textures, so make sure to follow each step carefully for the best results. The key is to cook the fries until they’re perfectly crispy and the steak until it’s tender and flavorful.
Step 1: Cook the Fries: Begin by preparing the frozen French fries according to the package instructions. Whether you choose to bake them in the oven, air fry them, or deep fry them, ensure they are cooked until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, immediately season them with salt and garlic powder for an extra layer of flavor. Set aside.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables: While the fries are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Dice the onion and bell pepper into small, even pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the steak.
Step 3: Cook the Steak and Veggies: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they become soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 4: Add the Steak: Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet with the cooked onions and bell peppers. Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the steak until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices. Be careful not to overcook the steak, as it will become tough. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Assemble the Fries: Once the fries and steak mixture are cooked, it’s time to assemble the Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries. Spread the cooked fries evenly on a large platter or baking sheet.
Step 6: Top with Steak and Veggies: Evenly distribute the cooked steak, onions, and bell peppers over the fries. Ensure that each fry gets a generous topping of the savory mixture.
Step 7: Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese generously over the steak and veggies. If you prefer using cheese sauce, drizzle it evenly over the fries.
Step 8: Melt the Cheese (if using shredded cheese): If using shredded cheese, place the platter or baking sheet under a broiler in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent the cheese from burning. If using cheese sauce, this step is not necessary.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve: Remove the Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries from the oven (if broiling) and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries are a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First and foremost, they combine the comforting simplicity of French fries with the rich, savory flavors of a classic Philly Cheesesteak. The combination of crispy fries, tender steak, sweet onions and peppers, and melted cheese creates a symphony of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by using different types of fries, cheeses, or toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or simply craving a satisfying snack, these loaded fries are sure to hit the spot.
Furthermore, the recipe is relatively quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of preparation, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that will impress your family and friends.
COOKING Rating: 5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer for parties or gatherings.
- Enjoy as a satisfying snack for game nights or movie nights.
- Make it a complete meal by serving with a side salad or coleslaw.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mustard, or ranch dressing.
- For an extra touch, serve with a cold beer or soda.
Tips:
- For best results, use high-quality steak such as ribeye or flank steak.
- Make sure to slice the steak thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Don’t overcook the steak, as it will become tough and dry.
- Use a good quality cheese that melts well, such as provolone or mozzarella.
- If using shredded cheese, broil the fries for just a few minutes to melt the cheese without burning it.
- Get creative with your toppings! Try adding mushrooms, jalapenos, or bacon for extra flavor.
- If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked steak or cheese sauce to speed up the process.
- To keep the fries crispy, serve them immediately after assembling.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Estimated, per serving)
- Calories: 700-900
- Protein: 40-50g
- Sodium: 800-1200mg
Conclusion:
Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Philly Cheesesteak in a new and exciting way. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and can be customized to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in a truly unforgettable culinary experience. These loaded fries are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries them!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! While provolone and mozzarella are classic choices for a Philly Cheesesteak, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the other flavors in the dish.
- Can I use pre-cooked steak to save time?
- Yes, using pre-cooked steak is a great way to save time, especially on busy weeknights. Look for pre-cooked steak strips or shaved steak in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Simply heat the steak according to the package instructions and add it to the skillet with the onions and peppers.
- What if I don’t have a broiler?
- If you don’t have a broiler, you can still melt the cheese by placing the loaded fries in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the fries to prevent them from burning.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- While it’s best to serve these loaded fries immediately for maximum crispiness, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time. You can cook the fries and steak mixture separately and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble. When ready to serve, simply reheat the fries and steak mixture, assemble the fries, and melt the cheese.
- Can I add other toppings to the fries?
- Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Some popular additions include sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, bacon bits, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless!
