Philly Steak Cheese Fries

This skillet dish hits all the notes of a classic Philly cheesesteak but takes it to a whole new comfort level by swapping the bread for crispy golden waffle fries. Juicy steak, gooey cheese and sautéed peppers and onions all come together in one pan that’s perfect for sharing or not. Whether you're hosting friends or feeding a hungry family on a casual night this recipe delivers big-time flavor with minimal fuss.

I first served this on game night with friends and it disappeared before the first quarter ended

Ingredients

• Thinly sliced ribeye or sirloin steak: brings bold beefy flavor and tenderness
• Garlic salt: boosts the savory profile with a bit of seasoning ease
• Fresh ground black pepper: adds a little bite and balance
• Green bell pepper: gives sweetness and color to contrast the richness
• White or yellow onion: offers a soft caramelized edge and layered flavor
• White American cheese slices: melt smoothly and cling to every layer
• Frozen waffle fries: create a hearty crispy base
• Olive oil: helps the steak and vegetables brown evenly without sticking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius This ensures the fries bake up crisp and the cheese melts into golden bubbly goodness

Cook the Steak:

In a large oven safe skillet heat one tablespoon of olive oil over high heat Add the steak in a single layer if possible Sprinkle with garlic salt and freshly ground pepper Let sear untouched for about forty five seconds to form a crust then stir and cook for a total of around three minutes until just barely pink Remove from the skillet and set aside

Sauté the Veggies:

In the same skillet add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers Cook over medium heat stirring occasionally for five minutes until soft but still vibrant in color and slightly crisp at the edges This step builds deep savory flavor

Layer the Ingredients:

Spread frozen waffle fries evenly across the bottom of the skillet Lay three to four slices of cheese over the fries Add half of the steak and sautéed vegetables Then repeat with the remaining steak and veggies Finish by placing the rest of the cheese slices over the top

Bake Until Bubbly:

Place the entire skillet in the preheated oven Bake for eight to ten minutes until the cheese has fully melted and starts to bubble and brown at the edges Remove and serve immediately

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I love using a cast iron skillet for this dish because it holds heat so well and makes the fries extra crisp My kids call this recipe cheese steak magic

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Reheat in a skillet or oven to bring back the crisp texture Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the fries soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use flank steak or thinly sliced chicken for the meat Sautéed mushrooms or plant based strips also work for a vegetarian twist For cheese try provolone mozzarella cheddar or pepper jack depending on your heat preference

Serving Suggestions

This dish works great as a hearty appetizer or a full meal Pair it with a fresh green salad or a simple slaw for balance Offer hot sauce jalapeños or pickled peppers on the side for extra zing

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Cultural Context

Inspired by the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak this version transforms the sandwich into a skillet meal It blends American diner flair with comfort food roots in a fun approachable way that suits casual gatherings

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different steak cut?

Yes! Flank steak, sirloin, or even thin-sliced chicken or mushrooms are great substitutes for ribeye.

→ What cheese works best?

White American is classic, but provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack all melt well and add great flavor.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Absolutely—use mushrooms, plant-based steak, or roasted jackfruit for a meat-free version.

→ How do I get extra crispy fries?

Pre-bake the fries for 5 minutes before layering on toppings to get a crispier base.

→ Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the steak and veggies ahead, then assemble and bake just before serving.