If you love the bold flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak and the irresistible comfort of crispy fries, then this Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe is about to become your new go-to indulgence. Imagine juicy strips of seasoned steak, sweet sautéed peppers and onions, all generously layered over golden waffle fries, then smothered in melty White American cheese. It’s a harmonious explosion of textures and flavors that guarantees every bite is pure satisfaction. Whether you’re serving this up for game day, a casual dinner, or just because, it’s a crowd-pleaser that elevates fries to an unforgettable experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together easily but deliver maximum flavor. Each component brings something unique—steak adds hearty richness, bell peppers and onions provide sweetness and crunch, and those waffle fries give the perfect base with their crispy, fluffy texture. The cheese melts everything together in glorious gooey harmony.
- 1 lb steak, thinly sliced: Choose a tender cut like sirloin for juicy, flavorful strips that cook quickly.
- 1 tsp garlic salt: Adds savory depth with a mild garlic punch to season the steak perfectly.
- ½ tsp ground black pepper: Provides a subtle heat that balances the richness of the meat and cheese.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Offers a mild, slightly sweet crunch that complements the steak and onions.
- 1 onion, sliced: Brings natural sweetness and soft texture once sautéed, essential for the classic Philly flavor profile.
- 8-10 slices White American cheese: Melts beautifully to create that iconic creamy, cheesy layer.
- 20 oz bag McCain Quick Cook Waffle Cut Fries: Or your favorite fries that crisp up nicely and hold toppings well.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for cooking the steak and vegetables, adding a subtle richness without overpowering flavors.
How to Make Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating ensures the fries get crispy again and the cheese melts evenly, creating that perfectly bubbly top layer you’re craving.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Heat an oven-safe skillet on medium-high and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in your thinly sliced steak, seasoning it right away with garlic salt and black pepper. Cook it until the edges brown beautifully and it’s just cooked through to get that deep, savory flavor. Then, remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside to keep all those delicious juices intact.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Before cooking the veggies, reserve one tablespoon of the steak’s cooking liquid left in your skillet; this is packed with flavor. Discard the rest. Return the skillet to the stove and add the sliced green bell pepper and onion. Sauté until they soften but still keep a slight crispness for texture contrast that perfectly complements the tender steak.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Spread a generous layer of waffle fries in your skillet or a baking dish. Lay down 4 slices of White American cheese over the fries so it starts melting into every crevice. Next, add a layer of the browned steak, followed by your vibrant sautéed vegetables. Repeat the layering, ending with the remaining cheese slices on top for that luxurious, cheesy finish.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts fully and bubbles with golden edges. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly so the layers set just enough to serve up neat, then dive in while hot and melty. Deliciousness awaits.
How to Serve Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe
Garnishes
To bring this dish to the next level, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and freshness. If you like a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce adds a welcome kick that brightens the rich cheese and meat.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish stands perfectly on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple crisp salad or tangy coleslaw to balance the indulgence. For an extra touch, serve with pickles or a zesty dipping sauce like chipotle mayo that complements the robust flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re impressing guests, try serving your Philly Steak Cheese Fries on individual cast iron skillets or rustic wooden boards for a cozy, inviting presentation. You could even bake them in mini portion-sized ramekins for personalized servings that feel extra special and shareable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen when they sit a bit, making reheated portions just as tasty as fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish by assembling it but skipping the final bake step. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen with an extra 10 minutes added to the baking time until bubbly and hot throughout.
Reheating
To maintain that perfect crispy texture, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven on a baking sheet or in the skillet until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the fries from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While White American cheese melts beautifully and provides the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor, you can experiment with provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different twist. Each offers a slightly unique melt and taste.
What cut of steak works best for Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe?
Thinly sliced sirloin or ribeye are ideal because they cook quickly and stay tender. You want flavorful meat without chewing too much, so avoid thicker or tougher cuts.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to choose gluten-free fries or prepare your own potato wedges. Check all other ingredients for any hidden gluten, like seasoning blends, to keep it safe.
Is it okay to substitute regular fries instead of waffle fries?
Definitely! Waffle fries hold the toppings well and add great texture, but crinkle-cut, shoestring, or even homemade fries work just as well according to your preference.
How spicy is this dish? Can I make it milder?
This recipe is naturally mild, relying mostly on savory and sweet flavors without spiciness. You control the heat by adding or skipping things like black pepper or hot sauce when garnishing.
Final Thoughts
This Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe is pure comfort food magic that’s easier to make than you might think. It’s a brilliant way to transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy treat your family and friends will rave about. Next time you want something indulgent and satisfying, treat yourself to this cheesy, meaty masterpiece—you won’t regret it!
Print
Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a delicious and indulgent Philly Steak Cheese Fries recipe that combines tender, seasoned steak, sautéed bell peppers and onions, crispy waffle fries, and melted White American cheese. Perfect for a tasty appetizer or a hearty snack, these cheesy fries bring the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor in a fun and shareable dish.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
Other Ingredients
- 8–10 slices White American cheese
- 20 oz bag McCain Quick Cook Waffle Cut Fries (or your favorite fries)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the layered fries and cheese.
- Cook the Steak: Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced steak and season it with garlic salt and black pepper. Cook the steak until browned on all sides, then remove it from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Reserve 1 tablespoon of the cooking liquid from the skillet and discard the rest. Return the skillet to the stove and add the sliced green bell pepper and onion. Cook the vegetables in the reserved liquid until tender but still slightly crisp. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Fries: Spread a layer of waffle fries in the same oven-safe skillet or a baking dish. Place 4 slices of White American cheese over the fries, then add a layer of the cooked steak and sautéed vegetables. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese slices on top.
- Bake: Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then serve hot for a comforting and flavorful dish.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the fries to another dish for baking.
- Feel free to substitute White American cheese with provolone or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Make sure to slice the steak thinly for quick and even cooking.
- You can use frozen waffle fries or your preferred brand of fries.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the steak while cooking.
