Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe

If you are craving a dish that combines hearty comfort with bold flavors, these Philly Steak Cheese Fries will totally satisfy your taste buds. Combining crispy waffle fries with juicy, seasoned steak, sautéed peppers and onions, and layers of gooey White American cheese, this dish is a spectacular twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak. Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, Philly Steak Cheese Fries bring together the best textures and flavors into one irresistible, easy-to-make meal that’s guaranteed to become a fast favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating the perfect Philly Steak Cheese Fries. Each component plays a crucial role, from adding savory depth and tender texture to vibrant color and melty richness.

• 450 g steak, thinly sliced: This is the star of the dish, providing juicy, flavorful protein that pairs perfectly with the cheese and fries.
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt: Adds a punch of garlicky seasoning to enhance the steak’s natural flavor.
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper: Offers just the right amount of heat and earthiness to balance the dish.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and a pop of green color.
• 1 onion, sliced: Caramelizes beautifully to bring sweetness and depth to the filling.
• 8 to 10 slices White American cheese: Creates the luscious, melty cheese layers that make this dish irresistible.
• 567 g bag frozen waffle cut fries: Provides the crispy, golden base that soaks up all the savory juices.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for sautéing the steak and vegetables to perfection.

How to Make Philly Steak Cheese Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 220°C (about 425°F). This high temperature is perfect for getting the cheese melted and bubbly on top of your layers of steak and fries.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the thinly sliced steak. Season immediately with garlic salt and black pepper, stirring well to coat every piece. Sauté the steak until it’s beautifully browned on all sides—this brings out that rich, savory flavor that’s essential for Philly Steak Cheese Fries. Once cooked, set the steak aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Reserve just one tablespoon of the cooking liquid in the skillet, discarding the rest to avoid excess grease. Add the green bell pepper and onion slices to the pan. Cook them until they’re tender but the bell peppers still have a touch of crunch—this contrast adds texture and keeps the dish balanced. Remove from heat and set aside with the steak.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Remove the skillet from heat and spread your frozen waffle fries evenly in the bottom. Lay four slices of White American cheese over the fries—this first cheese layer will melt into the fries. Then layer on the cooked steak and sautéed vegetables evenly. Repeat this layering process, finishing off with the remaining cheese slices on top for that ultimate cheesy finish.

Step 5: Bake

Place the loaded skillet in your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and bubbling, transforming into a golden, gooey topping that makes your Philly Steak Cheese Fries so incredibly inviting.

Step 6: Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the dish to cool slightly for a few minutes so it holds together when serving. Dig in while hot and enjoy every delicious bite of this amazing hearty treat.

How to Serve Philly Steak Cheese Fries

Garnishes

Garnishing your Philly Steak Cheese Fries can take the flavor up a notch. Fresh chopped parsley or green onions scattered on top add a lovely burst of color and freshness. A dash of hot sauce or a drizzle of ranch dressing can also amp up the taste, making each bite uniquely yours.

Side Dishes

Though these fries bring plenty of personality to the table, pairing them with a crisp garden salad or coleslaw adds a refreshing counterpoint. A light pickle or tangy kimchi side can also balance out the richness for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Philly Steak Cheese Fries straight from the skillet for a rustic, cozy feel. Alternatively, portion into individual ramekins for a stylish party appetizer. For a fun twist, try stacking the fries and toppings into mini sandwich buns to create Philly steak cheese fry sliders.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Philly Steak Cheese Fries are fantastic leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest, though the fries may lose some crispness.

Freezing

If you want to keep these fries longer, freeze them after assembly but before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and can be baked straight from frozen with an additional 10 minutes baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore that melty texture and warm through without making the fries soggy. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep some crispness in the fries.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for Philly Steak Cheese Fries?

Absolutely! While White American cheese melts beautifully and is traditional, you can experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

What cuts of steak work best for this dish?

Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin are ideal because they’re tender and flavorful, making them perfect for quick sautéing and layering on the fries.

Can I make Philly Steak Cheese Fries vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms, seitan, or a plant-based meat alternative and keep all the other ingredients the same for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Are waffle fries better than regular fries in this recipe?

The waffle cut fries add a unique texture and hold up well under the layers of cheese and toppings. Regular fries can be used, but they might get a bit softer when baked.

How spicy are Philly Steak Cheese Fries?

The basic recipe is mild, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes, jalapeños, or a spicy seasoning blend to make it as fiery as you like.

Final Thoughts

Philly Steak Cheese Fries are an absolute delight when it comes to comfort food with a punch of bold flavors. Whether you’re making them for a casual dinner, a game day snack, or a fun gathering, this dish offers something irresistible for everyone. I can’t wait for you to try making your own Philly Steak Cheese Fries and watch it become the new star in your recipe repertoire!

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