If you crave the irresistible combination of juicy steak, melted cheese, and crispy fries all in one bite, then this Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe is about to become your new go-to indulgence. It takes the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich experience and elevates it by layering those savory flavors over a mountain of golden, crispy fries. Each forkful bursts with tender strips of seared sirloin, sweet sautéed peppers and onions, and a gooey blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to an epic comfort meal, these loaded fries deliver that perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by how simple these ingredients are; each one plays a vital role in making this Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe come alive with flavor and texture. From the crispy base of thick-cut fries to the perfectly seared steak and melty cheese blend, every component adds a delicious layer to this crowd-pleaser.
- 680g / 1½ lbs frozen French fries (thick cut): The crispy foundation that carries all the savory toppings beautifully.
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided: Essential for searing the steak and softening the veggies to perfection without overpowering flavors.
- 200g / 8oz sirloin steak: Tender and flavorful, this is the star protein; choose a good-quality cut for best results.
- 1 onion, sliced: Adds a natural sweetness and subtle crunch after sautéing.
- 1 green pepper, sliced: Brings a fresh, slightly crisp contrast that complements the steak nicely.
- 100g / 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated: Melts beautifully to create that iconic gooey cheesesteak texture.
- 100g / 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated: Adds sharpness and depth to the cheese blend, balancing the flavors.
- 2 green onions, sliced: A fresh, zesty finish for a pop of color and mild onion flavor on top.
How to Make Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe
Step 1: Cook the fries until crispy
Start by cooking the thick-cut frozen fries according to the package instructions, whether in the oven or an air fryer, until they reach a golden crispy perfection. The crunch here is crucial—it’s the base that will hold all those luscious toppings, so don’t skip on achieving that nice crisp texture.
Step 2: Sear the steak strips
Trim off any visible fat from the sirloin steak and cut it into thin strips. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the steak strips until they’re nicely browned but still tender. Cooking the steak just right is key—overcooking will make it tough, so keep a close eye and remove it as soon as they have a beautiful crust.
Step 3: Sauté onions and green pepper
Using the same pan (and adding the remaining tablespoon of olive oil), sauté the sliced onions and green peppers for about 4 minutes until they’re softened and luscious, but still have a slight bite to them. This step brings out their natural sweetness and balances the richness of the steak and cheese.
Step 4: Assemble and broil the loaded fries
Place your crispy fries in a large cast iron skillet or on a sheet pan. Sprinkle half of the combined mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the fries, then layer the cooked steak strips, the sautéed onions and peppers, and finally top with the remaining cheese. Pop the pan under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts to ooey-gooey perfection. Keep a close watch to avoid burning the cheese. Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh sliced green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe
Garnishes
A final touch of sliced green onions adds freshness and a mild onion kick that balances the rich, cheesy toppings beautifully. If you enjoy a bit of heat, drizzle with your favorite hot sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs like finely chopped parsley can also brighten up this indulgent dish wonderfully.
Side Dishes
While this Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe can definitely shine as a meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with light sides like a crisp green salad, pickles, or a refreshing coleslaw that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, serve it alongside a chilled beer or a sparkling soda for a perfect casual feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Make this recipe the star of your next gathering by serving it family-style right from a large cast iron skillet, encouraging everyone to dive in. You can also build individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ovenproof dishes for a stylish presentation. For a party, offer a variety of toppings like sliced jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or different cheese blends to customize each plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which can be a challenge), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fries might lose some of their crispiness, but reheating properly can help bring back some of that crunch.
Freezing
This Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the assembled, unbroiled fries in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before broiling the cheese as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat and revive some crispness, use an oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese bubbles again. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it tends to make the fries soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices for that creamy, sharp contrast, you can experiment with provolone, pepper jack, or even Swiss cheese to suit your taste preferences.
What cut of steak works best for this recipe?
Sirloin is a great option for tenderness and flavor, but ribeye, flank, or strip steak also work well as long as you slice them thinly and cook quickly to keep them tender.
Are there vegetarian alternatives for this dish?
For a vegetarian twist, swap the steak for sautéed mushrooms, seitan, or plant-based meat substitutes. The combination of veggies and cheese will still make these fries satisfyingly delicious.
Can I make these fries from scratch?
Definitely! If you prefer homemade fries, peel and cut potatoes into thick slices, soak them in cold water to remove excess starch, dry thoroughly, then fry or bake until golden and crispy before topping with the steak and cheese.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe is mild by default, focusing on rich and savory flavors. However, you can easily add heat with hot sauce, jalapeños, or crushed red pepper flakes to kick it up a notch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about digging into a plate of Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe—it’s the ultimate comfort food that brings together all your favorite flavors in one glorious dish. Whether you’re sharing with friends or indulging solo, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and impossible to resist. So go ahead and give it a try—you just might find your new favorite way to enjoy loaded fries!
PrintPhilly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Loaded Fries combine crispy thick-cut fries topped with tender, seared sirloin steak strips, sautéed onions and green peppers, and a gooey blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Finished under the broiler for a melty cheese topping and garnished with fresh green onions, this appetizer or snack is packed with savory flavors and satisfying textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fries
- 680g / 1½ lbs frozen thick-cut French fries
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
Steak and Vegetables
- 200g / 8oz sirloin steak, trimmed and sliced into strips
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 green pepper, sliced
Cheese and Garnishes
- 100g / 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- 100g / 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Cook the Fries: Preheat your oven or air fryer according to the frozen fries package instructions. Cook the fries until golden and crispy. This usually takes around 20-25 minutes in an oven or 15-20 minutes in an air fryer. Set the fries aside once done.
- Prepare and Sear the Steak: Trim any visible fat from the sirloin steak and cut it into thin strips. Season the strips generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the steak strips until nicely browned but not overcooked, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove steak from the pan and keep warm on a plate.
- Sauté Onions and Peppers: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and green peppers, sautéing over medium heat for about 4 minutes until softened but still retaining some bite. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble Loaded Fries: Spread the cooked fries evenly on a large cast iron skillet or a sheet pan. Sprinkle half of the mixed grated mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the fries. Layer the seared steak strips evenly on top, followed by the sautéed onions and green peppers. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheese over everything.
- Broil to Melt Cheese: Place the skillet or sheet pan under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly. Avoid burning by keeping a close eye.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the broiler and sprinkle the loaded fries with sliced green onions for freshness and color. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.
Notes
- Use thick-cut fries for best texture and sturdiness under the toppings.
- Do not overcook the steak to keep it tender and juicy.
- Broil the assembled fries just until the cheese melts to avoid burning.
- Feel free to substitute sirloin steak with ribeye or any preferred cut.
- You can add extra toppings like mushrooms or jalapeños for variation.
