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There is something next-level about hot crispy fries layered with juicy steak melty cheese and sautéed peppers that hits every comfort food craving at once. Philly steak cheese fries are my answer when my family wants a takeout classic without leaving the house. These deliver big flavor with easy steps and are always a huge hit on game day or movie night.
I came up with this recipe after a long road trip when we all craved something hearty and cozy. Now everyone requests these fries when they need a quick pick-me-up or want to celebrate with comfort food.
Ingredients
- Thinly sliced steak: Brings that signature Philly flavor and cooks up super fast. Choose a nicely marbled cut like ribeye if you can
- Garlic salt: Gives deep savory notes and keeps seasoning simple. Look for garlic salt that lists garlic first in the ingredients
- Ground black pepper: For heat and aroma. Freshly ground is best here
- Green bell pepper: Adds color crunch and slight sweetness. Pick one that feels heavy and glossy
- Onion: Brings a mellow sweetness that complements the steak
- White American cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey finish. Visit the deli counter for a higher-quality freshly sliced cheese
- Frozen waffle cut fries: Offer built-in texture and structure under all those toppings. Check for fries with golden coloring and minimal ice crystals
- Olive oil: Helps everything brown and infuses subtle flavor. Use extra virgin for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Oven:
- Set your oven to 220 degrees Celsius so it’s fully heated before baking. This ensures the cheese melts smoothly and the fries crisp up again.
- Sear the Steak:
- Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Add the thinly sliced steak in a single layer. Sprinkle with garlic salt and ground black pepper. Stir occasionally and cook until the edges brown and nearly all pink disappears. Transfer steak to a plate and cover loosely.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Save a tablespoon of the steak’s cooking liquid in the skillet but pour away the rest to avoid greasy results. Add your sliced green bell pepper and onion to the pan. Sauté over medium heat. Stir often until the vegetables get glossy and the onion softens. The bell pepper should keep a little bite for the best texture. Scoop these onto the plate with steak.
- Layer the Fries:
- Remove the skillet from the heat to prevent splattering. Arrange the frozen waffle fries in a flat even layer so each fry has a chance to crisp. Place four slices of White American cheese over the fries for a creamy base.
- Build the Toppings:
- Scatter the cooked steak and vegetables evenly over the cheesy fries. Lay on the rest of the cheese slices so everything will be draped in gooey goodness as it bakes.
- Bake Until Bubbling:
- Slide the skillet into your preheated oven. Bake for eight to ten minutes. You are looking for the cheese to melt thoroughly and begin bubbling gently.
- Cool and Serve:
- Use oven mitts to remove the hot skillet. Let it cool for a few minutes so the cheese sets slightly and it is easier to serve. Dig in while piping hot for the best cheese pulls.
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The laughter around the table as we debate our favorite cheese combos is honestly the best part of this meal.
Storage Tips
Keep any extras covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat fries in the oven or toaster oven on a baking sheet for the crispiest results. Microwaving is fast but makes the fries softer and the cheese a little rubbery.
Ingredient Substitutions
No waffle fries in the freezer. Use any thick cut fry or even tater tots for a fun twist. Switch up peppers to use sweet red or spicy poblanos if you like more heat. Swiss provolone or mozzarella also melt beautifully in place of White American cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish straight from the skillet to the table with forks or sturdy plates. Pair with a crisp salad or some cut fresh veggies for balance. A drizzle of ranch or a sprinkle of paprika adds even more flavor.
Cultural Context
Inspired by Philadelphia’s iconic cheesesteaks these fries capture the legendary sandwich experience in snacking form. The tradition of smothering crispy potatoes with cheese goes back decades and continues to unite friends and families for sporting events tailgates and more.
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Dig in and enjoy every cheesy bite with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of steak works best?
Use ribeye or sirloin, thinly sliced, for tender results that cook quickly and absorb seasoning well.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
While White American cheese melts smoothly, provolone or mozzarella can be substituted for a similar creamy texture.
- → Do I need a cast iron skillet?
Any oven-safe skillet works. Cast iron holds heat well and helps crisp the fries and melt cheese evenly.
- → Are fresh fries better than frozen?
Frozen waffle fries save time and crisp up nicely, but fresh-cut fries can be used if preferred; just adjust bake time.
- → Can vegetables be customized?
Absolutely. Add mushrooms, swap in red bell peppers, or omit onions for a personalized flavor profile.