Philly Steak Cheese Fries

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fries

Start with the fries, as they take the longest to cook.

• Bake the Fries: Preheat your oven according to the package instructions (usually 425°F or 220°C). Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
• Bake Until Golden: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness. You can also use an air fryer for extra crispiness if you prefer.

2. Cook the Philly Steak Mixture

While the fries are baking, cook the steak and vegetables.

• Prepare the Steak: Season the thinly sliced steak with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
• Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Cook the Steak: Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the seasoned steak. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Stir everything together so the steak is well mixed with the onions and peppers. Set aside.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce brings everything together, adding creamy, cheesy goodness to the dish.

• Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir to combine. Cook the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
• Add Milk and Cheese: Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Once thickened, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Keep Warm: Lower the heat and keep the cheese sauce warm, stirring occasionally.

4. Assemble the Philly Steak Cheese Fries

Now it’s time to put everything together!

• Arrange the Fries: Once the fries are done, transfer them to a large platter or individual plates.
• Top with Steak and Veggies: Evenly distribute the cooked steak, onions, and bell peppers over the fries.
• Drizzle with Cheese Sauce: Pour the warm, gooey cheese sauce generously over the steak and fries.

5. Add Optional Toppings

For extra flavor and texture, add any of the optional toppings:

• Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh bite.
• Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.
• Hot Sauce: For a little heat, drizzle with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can balance out the richness of the cheese and steak.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Philly Steak Cheese Fries immediately while they’re hot and fresh! Grab a fork (or your hands) and dig into this indulgent dish that’s sure to satisfy.

Tips and Variations:

• Steak Tips: For the best results, use ribeye steak for its tenderness and flavor. Flank steak also works well if you prefer a leaner option.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses! Gouda, provolone, or a spicy pepper jack cheese can add more depth to the flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the steak and use sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
• Add Some Heat: If you like things spicy, sauté the peppers with jalapeños or drizzle the fries with buffalo sauce.
• Extra Crispy Fries: If you want even crispier fries, fry them instead of baking them. This adds a golden crunch that contrasts perfectly with the cheese sauce.

What to Serve with Philly Steak Cheese Fries:

• Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy side salad will balance the richness of the cheese fries.
• Pickles or Pickled Jalapeños – Add a tangy, zesty flavor that cuts through the heaviness of the fries.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment for mopping up the cheese sauce and steak juices.

Final Thoughts

Philly Steak Cheese Fries are the perfect indulgent meal for when you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and filling. The combination of crispy fries, tender steak, melty cheese, and sautéed vegetables is pure comfort food bliss. Whether you’re serving it as a snack or making it the main event at dinner, this dish will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy it with friends, family, or as a special treat for yourself!