Irresistible Philly Steak Cheese Fries

These Philly Steak Cheese Fries bring the indulgent flavors of a classic cheesesteak wrapped up with crispy waffle fries and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for sharing, this dish layers tender steak strips with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and plenty of melted cheese on a bed of golden fries. It’s a straightforward recipe that delivers big on comfort and satisfaction in under 30 minutes.

I first made this recipe when craving the iconic Philly cheesesteak but wanted something shareable and fun. Now it’s a go-to when friends come over and always disappears quickly at the table.

Ingredients

• Steak: thinly sliced four hundred fifty grams – choose a cut like sirloin for tenderness and flavor
• Garlic salt: one teaspoon – adds a savory punch that enhances the steak
• Ground black pepper: half teaspoon – freshly cracked varieties bring more aroma and spice
• Green bell pepper: one sliced – provides sweetness and crunch contrasting the rich cheese
• Onion: one sliced – caramelizes beautifully to add depth and a touch of sweetness
• White American cheese: eight to ten slices – melts smoothly mozzarella works well if you prefer a milder cheese
• Frozen waffle-cut fries: five hundred sixty-seven grams – the crispy texture stands up to the toppings
• Olive oil: one tablespoon – for cooking the steak without overpowering flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven temperature to two hundred twenty degrees Celsius or four hundred twenty-five Fahrenheit so it’s ready once assembled. This ensures even baking and melted cheese.

Cook the Steak:

Warm an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and then the thinly sliced steak. Season with garlic salt and black pepper, stirring to coat each piece well. Cook for three to four minutes until the steak browns and is cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and place aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

Keep about one tablespoon of the steak cooking juices in the skillet. Add the sliced green bell pepper and onion, cooking them over medium heat until they become soft and start to caramelize, roughly four to five minutes. This step builds sweetness and flavor. Remove the vegetables and set aside.

Assemble the Layers:

Take the skillet off the heat. Spread the waffle fries evenly at the bottom. Place four slices of cheese over the fries, then layer the cooked steak and the sautéed vegetables. Repeat these layers and finish with the remaining cheese on top.

Bake Until Bubbly:

Place the skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for eight to ten minutes until the cheese melts fully and bubbles at the edges, creating a rich, gooey top.

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove from the oven and let cool briefly so it settles a bit. Serve while hot. For a touch of brightness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top before serving.

Save

My favorite part is the caramelized onions. When they soften and sweeten, they create a wonderful balance against the savory meat and melted cheese. Every family gathering that features this dish turns into a lively event with everyone reaching for seconds.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at one hundred seventy-five degrees Celsius or three hundred fifty Fahrenheit for about ten minutes to restore crispness to the fries and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving to keep the fries from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can’t find waffle fries, thick-cut fries or shoestring fries can work but may change the crunch factor. You can swap the White American cheese for provolone or even cheddar if you like a sharper flavor. For steak, flank or ribeye are good choices if you want more marbling and richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these loaded fries as a main dish alongside a fresh green salad or coleslaw. They also pair well with pickles or sliced jalapeños to add brightness or heat. For a party, provide dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo to elevate the experience.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Thinly sliced skirt or flank steak works well as it cooks quickly and remains tender when sautéed.

→ Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen waffle fries?

Yes, fresh cut potatoes can be used, but be sure they are evenly sliced and pre-cooked to ensure crispiness.

→ How do I prevent the cheese from overcooking in the oven?

Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly, around 8–10 minutes, to keep it creamy without drying out.

→ What vegetables complement the steak in this skillet?

Sautéed onions and green bell peppers add sweetness and a mild crunch that balance the savory steak and cheese.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers in the skillet and refrigerate before baking, but bake right before serving for best texture.