Cheesy Steak Loaded Fries

This Philly Steak Cheese Fries skillet is my ultimate game day comfort food that transforms classic cheesesteak flavors into an irresistible shareable dish everyone fights over.

I first made these loaded fries during a playoff game when friends unexpectedly stayed late. What started as a way to stretch leftovers has become our most requested weekend indulgence.

• Thinly sliced steak select ribeye or sirloin for best flavor and have your butcher slice it paper thin if possible
• Garlic salt adds savory depth without needing multiple seasonings
• Ground black pepper freshly ground provides the most potent flavor
• Green bell pepper adds color and sweet crunch that balances the rich cheese
• Onion look for sweet varieties like Vidalia for caramelized flavor
• White American cheese melts beautifully and creates that authentic Philly cheesesteak taste
• Frozen waffle cut fries the ridges hold toppings better than regular fries
• Olive oil use a light variety with neutral flavor to let the steak shine

How To Make Philly Steak Cheese Fries

Preheat Oven

Set your oven to a hot 220°C which ensures your fries get crispy and the cheese melts perfectly without overcooking the steak. This high temperature is crucial for getting that golden brown finish on the fries.

Sear The Steak

Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium high heat until you can feel warmth hovering above the surface. Add olive oil and swirl to coat. When the oil shimmers add thinly sliced steak in a single layer working in batches if necessary. Season generously with garlic salt and pepper stirring frequently. Cook just until browned which takes about 2 to 3 minutes total. The meat should still have a touch of pink since it will continue cooking in the oven. Remove steak to a plate but leave the flavorful juices.

Sauté Vegetables

Keep one tablespoon of the meat juices in the pan for flavor and discard any excess. Add sliced bell pepper and onion to the hot skillet spreading them evenly. Cook for about 5 minutes stirring occasionally until the onions begin to turn translucent but the peppers still retain a slight crunch. This textural contrast is what makes the dish special. Transfer vegetables to a plate.

Assemble The Skillet

Remove the skillet from heat and arrange frozen waffle fries in an even layer covering the bottom. Layer four slices of American cheese over the fries allowing them to overlap slightly. Distribute half the steak evenly followed by half the vegetable mixture. Repeat these layers finishing with the remaining cheese on top ensuring complete coverage for that perfect cheese pull.

Bake To Perfection

Place the fully loaded skillet in your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch carefully as the cheese should be completely melted and just starting to bubble at the edges while the fries become golden. The layering method ensures everything heats evenly without burning.

The waffle fries are truly the unsung hero of this recipe. I discovered their superiority by accident when my grocery store was out of regular fries. The deep ridges create pockets that capture the steak juices and melted cheese making every bite more flavorful than standard fries could ever deliver.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare the steak and vegetable components up to a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. This makes assembly lightning fast when you're ready to serve. Just layer everything in a cold skillet add an extra minute or two to the baking time to compensate for the chilled ingredients.

Flavor Variations

While White American cheese delivers that authentic Philly taste don't be afraid to experiment. Provolone adds a sharper flavor profile while a pepper jack brings welcome heat. For true indulgence try adding a drizzle of homemade cheese sauce over the finished dish. My family loves splitting the skillet with different cheese varieties to satisfy everyone's preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve straight from the skillet for maximum visual impact and to keep everything hot. Place the hot skillet on a wooden board or heat resistant surface and surround it with small bowls of optional toppings like sliced jalapeños hot sauce or ranch dressing. I always include a stack of napkins because the messy eating is part of the fun.

The Secret To Perfect Steak Slices

The key to authentic Philly cheesesteak texture is incredibly thin steak slices. If you don't have access to a butcher who'll slice it paper thin for you here's my trick freeze the steak for about 20 minutes until it's firm but not solid. This makes it much easier to slice ultra thin with a sharp knife. Cut against the grain for the most tender result.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best for Philly steak cheese fries?

Ribeye is traditional for authentic Philly flavor, but sirloin, flank, or skirt steak also work well. The key is slicing the meat very thin (partially freezing it first makes this easier). If budget is a concern, you can substitute ground beef seasoned with garlic and black pepper.

→ Can I substitute different cheese for the White American?

While White American cheese gives the authentic Philly experience and melts beautifully, provolone, mozzarella, or cheese whiz are excellent alternatives. For extra flavor, try a mix of cheeses like provolone and cheddar.

→ How do I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, include sliced jalapeños with your bell peppers and onions, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking, or serve with hot sauce on the side. You can also mix cayenne pepper into the steak seasoning.

→ Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Yes! The steak and vegetables can be cooked up to a day in advance and refrigerated. When ready to serve, simply layer the cold components with frozen fries and cheese in your skillet, then bake until hot throughout and the cheese is melted.

→ What sides go well with Philly steak cheese fries?

This is essentially a complete meal, but lighter sides balance it nicely. Consider a simple green salad with vinaigrette, pickles, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. For dipping, serve with ketchup, ranch dressing, or horseradish sauce.

→ Can I make this dish without a cast iron skillet?

Absolutely! Cook the steak and vegetables in any pan, then transfer everything to a baking dish or sheet pan to assemble and bake. Just ensure your baking vessel is oven-safe at 220°C.