Philly Steak Cheese Fries

These outrageously delicious Philly Steak Cheese Fries capture everything you love about a classic cheesesteak piled high atop crispy waffle fries. It is pure comfort food the kind of hearty treat we make for game nights or when friends drop by and want something truly irresistible.

The first time I made this my family fought over the last cheesy bite and now it is my go to for movie nights or big gatherings.

Ingredients

• Thinly sliced steak: such as ribeye or sirloin These cuts cook fast and stay juicy Look for good marbling for extra flavor
• Garlic salt: Seasoning the steak simply lets the beefy taste shine
• Ground black pepper: Adds just enough kick and rounds out the flavor
• Green bell pepper: Sliced for color and a sweet crunch Pick a pepper that feels firm and smooth
• Large onion: Brings mellow sweetness and balances the savory steak
• White American cheese: Melts into the creamiest topping Choose freshly sliced cheese from the deli if possible
• Frozen waffle cut fries: The deep ridges are ideal for grabbing every bit of topping Check that they bake up extra crisp
• Olive oil: Helps everything brown beautifully and adds a subtle richness Use extra virgin for the best taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Set your oven to 220C Make sure the rack is in the center so the fries and cheese will cook evenly

Sear the Steak:

Heat an oven safe skillet on medium high Add olive oil and wait for it to shimmer Working quickly lay in your thinly sliced steak Spread it out so each piece gets browned Season with garlic salt and pepper Give it a few good stirs until every piece is golden Remove the steak and scoop it onto a plate

Sauté the Vegetables:

Pour off excess fat from the skillet but keep about a tablespoon for flavor Add sliced bell pepper and onion Let them cook stirring occasionally until the onions grow soft and the bell pepper stays slightly crisp Taste a piece to make sure it still has some bite Remove vegetables and set with the steak

Layer the Fries Base:

Carefully arrange frozen waffle fries to cover the bottom of the same skillet Spread them out in an even layer so they crisp rather than steam

Start the Cheese Layer:

Lay four pieces of white American cheese on top of the fries The cheese will act like a glue to hold everything together during baking

Add Steak and Veggies:

Pile all the steak and sautéed vegetables over the cheese Try to distribute evenly for the perfect bite every time

Finish With More Cheese:

Drape the remaining cheese slices across the top For that signature Philly melt be generous so the gooey cheese drapes every surface

Oven Baking:

Place the loaded skillet into your preheated oven Bake for 8 to 10 minutes Check to ensure cheese is bubbling and golden

Rest and Serve:

Remove from the oven and let the skillet sit for a few minutes This helps the cheese set slightly so it is easier to serve Enjoy while piping hot for maximum meltiness

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You Must Know

This dish offers everything from protein to veggies all in one self contained bake Waffle fries grip onto toppings so every forkful is loaded Leftovers reheat surprisingly well in a hot oven or air fryer My favorite part is the way the cheese melts into every ridge of the fries Insanely satisfying and downright craveworthy These fries remind my family of carnival nights when we shared loaded snacks on chilly evenings

Storage Tips

Philly steak cheese fries taste best fresh but you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to revive crispness Avoid the microwave since it will make the fries soggy For make ahead prep sauté steak and veggies then layer and bake just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find ribeye or sirloin try flank steak or even thinly sliced roast beef Provolone can be swapped for American cheese but avoid pre shredded cheese since it will not melt as smoothly You can add red peppers or mushrooms for extra color and flavor If you like heat try a little pickled pepper on top before serving

Serving Suggestions

Serve these straight from the skillet family style with plenty of forks Set out toppings like sliced jalapenos garlic aioli or hot sauce for people to customize their bites I love pairing with a simple green salad for balance This dish is perfect as a hearty snack or a sharing centerpiece for a casual get together

Cultural Context

This recipe borrows the soul of a Philly cheesesteak and turns it into the ultimate snack food Philly cheesesteaks are an iconic street food known for juicy steak melty cheese and sautéed veggies The fries twist keeps it approachable and fun combining the best of two American classics

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure my steak stays tender?

To keep your steak tender, slice it thinly against the grain and cook it quickly over medium-high heat. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the meat tough.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute white American cheese with provolone, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.

→ What is the best way to cook the fries?

Using frozen waffle fries is key for their crispiness. Bake them according to package instructions or use an air fryer for a crispier texture.

→ Do I need an oven-safe skillet?

Yes, an oven-safe skillet is essential for transitioning the dish from the stovetop to the oven seamlessly. A cast iron skillet works perfectly for this recipe.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can sauté the steak and vegetables ahead of time to save on prep. Assemble and bake just before serving.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

You can pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the indulgent flavors of the fries and cheese.