There’s something truly special about coming together over a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. I remember the first time I made Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries for my family—it was one of those busy weeknights when everyone was craving something hearty but quick. We didn’t have time for a full sit-down meal, but we wanted something that felt like a treat. That’s when I got the idea to combine two favorites: cheesesteak and loaded fries.
It’s such a simple dish, but it hits all the right notes—crispy fries, tender steak, and melty cheese, all with the added flavors of sautéed onions and peppers. My kids absolutely love it, and my husband? Let’s just say he asks for it on game nights. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and it’s perfect when you want to serve up something that feels a little extra special without too much fuss.
Over the years, I’ve played around with the recipe, sometimes swapping out ingredients based on what we have in the fridge. But no matter how I tweak it, Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries always delivers. I love that it’s flexible enough to adapt but always guarantees smiles around the table. I hope this recipe brings the same joy to your home as it does to mine.
Making Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries
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Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs frozen thick-cut French fries
- 8 oz sirloin steak, or preferred cut
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 green onions, sliced
Directions
Preheat your oven or air fryer and cook the French fries as per the package instructions until they are golden and crispy.
Trim the steak and slice it into thin strips. Season with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat, and sear the steak strips until browned but still tender. Set them aside on a plate.
In the same pan, heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the sliced onions and green bell pepper for about 4 minutes, until softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Once the fries are done, arrange them on a sheet pan or large skillet. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the fries. Layer the cooked steak strips, sautéed onions, and peppers on top. Add the remaining cheese over everything.
Place the pan under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Storing Suggestion
Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to help re-crisp the fries and melt the cheese again.
Cooking Tips
For extra flavor, you can marinate the steak in a little Worcestershire sauce before cooking. If you prefer a spicier version, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce over the top before serving. Additionally, you can swap mozzarella for provolone for a more authentic cheesesteak flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries make a perfect game-day snack or a fun dinner option. Pair them with a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the dish, and serve with ketchup, ranch dressing, or even a cheese sauce for dipping!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have sirloin steak, flank steak or even ground beef can work as substitutes. For a vegetarian twist, use sautéed mushrooms instead of steak. You can also switch the cheeses—pepper jack adds a bit of a kick if you like your food spicy!
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, you can toss in some grilled vegetables like zucchini or corn for a fresh twist. During the colder months, try adding sautéed mushrooms or even some roasted butternut squash for a heartier version of the dish.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy in the form of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cheese substitute. The recipe can also be gluten-free as long as the frozen fries and cheese used are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.
FAQ
Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can make fresh fries if you prefer! Just slice potatoes into wedges, toss them with olive oil, and bake at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How can I prevent the fries from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy fries, make sure they’re crispy before adding the toppings. You can also add a layer of cheese directly on the fries before adding the steak and veggies to help protect them from excess moisture.
Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the steak and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Store them in the fridge and assemble everything just before baking to ensure the fries stay crispy.
What other toppings can I add?
You can get creative with toppings! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of garlic aioli. Bacon crumbles would also be a great addition for extra flavor.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To lighten the recipe, you could use sweet potato fries instead of regular fries, leaner cuts of beef, or even swap out the steak for grilled chicken. Reducing the amount of cheese or using a low-fat version also helps.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s not recommended to freeze the loaded fries, as the texture of the fries and cheese can change upon reheating. However, you can freeze the cooked steak and veggies and use them later to make fresh loaded fries.
Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs frozen thick-cut French fries
- 8 oz sirloin steak or preferred cut
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil divided
- 2 green onions sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven or air fryer and cook the French fries following the package directions until they turn golden and crispy.
- Slice the steak into thin strips after trimming off excess fat. Season with salt and pepper, and in a pan over medium-high heat, sear the steak in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until browned but still tender. Set aside on a plate.
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the sliced onion and green bell pepper for about 4 minutes, or until softened. Remove and set aside.
- Once the fries are cooked, place them on a sheet pan or large skillet. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses on top. Layer the steak strips, sautéed peppers, and onions over the fries. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheese over the top.
- Place the pan under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
