
This skillet recipe was born out of a craving for steakhouse flavor with an easy weeknight spin. Imagine golden crispy potatoes straight from the air fryer tossed with juicy ribeye steak sautéed onions and sweet bell peppers all wrapped together in melted mozzarella with a creamy Cheese Whiz drizzle. The best part is you only need a few basic ingredients and about half an hour for a hearty dinner worthy of a steakhouse but made right at home. My family loves it for game nights and busy evenings when everyone wants real comfort food that is also fun to eat.
I first made this skillet on a weeknight when I needed something comforting but had limited time and everyone asked for seconds The kids always hope I will hand them the cheesiest corner and now it is a regular request
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: These give the crispiest golden cubes thanks to their higher starch content Pick ones that are firm and smooth with no green spots
- Olive oil: Helps the potatoes crisp up and get rich flavor Choose a fresh olive oil for the best result
- Salt pepper garlic powder paprika: These combine to deeply season both potatoes and steak Try fresh cracked pepper and good quality smoked paprika for extra depth
- Ribeye steak: This cut cooks up juicy and tender when seared Thinly sliced is best ask your butcher or slightly freeze the steak before slicing at home
- Steak seasoning: Brings big steakhouse punch Make your own with salt pepper onion powder or use your favorite pre made blend
- Onion: Adds balancing sweetness to the whole skillet A firm yellow or sweet onion works best
- Green bell peppers: Bring in classic cheesesteak flavor and crunch Choose ones that are shiny and heavy for their size
- Minced garlic: Delivers that irresistible aroma and layered flavor Fresh garlic will give you the best result
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts creamy and gooey over the top Look for a low moisture mozzarella so you do not get watery cheese
- Cheese Whiz: Adds signature creamy cheesesteak finish Warm it gently so it drizzles smoothly over the skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare The Potatoes:
- Peel and wash your potatoes then cut them into even cubes Toss them with olive oil salt pepper garlic powder and paprika making sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor and crunch
- Air Fry The Potatoes:
- Arrange the potato cubes in the air fryer basket Set the temperature to four hundred degrees F Cook for about twenty five minutes shaking the basket two to three times so every cube browns evenly and nothing sticks together
- Slice The Steak:
- While the potatoes are cooking cut your ribeye into paper thin slices If your steak is firm slicing is easy A trick is to chill it in the freezer for about thirty minutes before slicing so you get extra thin pieces
- Cook The Steak:
- About twelve minutes before the potatoes are done heat a large skillet over medium high Add the thin steak slices sprinkling on steak seasoning Sear till the meat is browned and cooked just the way you like it Remove the cooked steak so it stays juicy
- Sauté Peppers And Onions:
- In the same hot skillet toss in the chopped onions and green peppers Stir them around until the onions look translucent and the peppers have softened about five minutes Just before they finish add the minced garlic and stir for another minute to release flavor
- Combine Steak And Veggies:
- Add the cooked steak back to the skillet with the onion and pepper mixture Stir everything together letting the steak soak up those sweet and savory juices
- Add Potatoes And Cheese:
- Once the potatoes are crispy tip them over into the skillet Spread them evenly Sprinkle over shredded mozzarella Cover the skillet with a lid or slip it into a hot oven for a few minutes so the cheese fully melts
- Finish With Cheese Whiz:
- As soon as the cheese is gooey drizzle the warmed Cheese Whiz generously over the skillet Give it a little toss if you like or serve straight from the pan

The thing I love most is the way those potatoes soak up every drop of steak juice and cheese around the sides of the pan Every time we make this my youngest races for the crispiest cheesiest corner and it always gets a laugh as we dish up
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The best way to bring them back to life is to reheat in a hot skillet or air fryer so the potatoes get their crispness back The microwave works if you are short on time but the potatoes will be softer
Ingredient substitutions
If you only have Yukon gold potatoes they will give you a creamier result that is still delicious Sirloin or even thinly sliced chicken thighs make a great swap for ribeye Try provolone or Monterey Jack in place of mozzarella and do not be afraid to add mushrooms or swap in red yellow or orange bell peppers for variety
Serving suggestions
This skillet is best served family style right from the pan If you want it to feel extra special sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley It goes especially well with a simple green salad or crunchy roasted broccoli For parties you can put servings into small skillets or little bowls with extra Cheese Whiz on the side

Cultural notes
Taking inspiration from the iconic Philly cheesesteak this twist on the classic sandwich skips the roll so you can serve those flavors in a skillet to a hungry group It is a fun way to bring Philly to your table plus you do not need any special hoagie rolls so it is easier to shop for
Recipe FAQs
- → What steak cuts are best to use?
Ribeye offers rich flavor and tenderness when sliced thin. Sirloin or flank steak can also be used for a leaner option, but ensure they are sliced very thin for quick, even cooking.
- → How do I keep the potatoes crispy?
Coat the potato cubes evenly with oil and seasoning, arrange in a single layer in the air fryer, and shake the basket several times during cooking for even crisping.
- → Can I cook this without an air fryer?
Yes, roast the potatoes on a baking sheet at 425°F, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crisp.
- → What cheeses work well for topping?
Mozzarella melts nicely for that gooey texture, but provolone or cheddar also add great flavor. Cheese Whiz adds a creamy, smooth finish that complements the skillet.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Mushrooms or red bell peppers can be added for extra color and flavor, enhancing the savory mix in the skillet.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to keep potatoes crispy rather than microwaving.