Name: Philly Cheesesteak Fries: Ultimate Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 bag Crinkle Cut French Fries (For a twist, try sweet potato fries.); 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil (Consider olive oil or avocado oil.); 1 medium Onion (Swap with shallots for a milder taste.); 1 medium Green Pepper (Red or yellow peppers can be used.); 1 cup Mushrooms (Substitute cooked spinach for a different texture.); 1 pound Steak (thinly sliced) (Flank steak or ribeye work well.); 1 cup Cheez Whiz (Feel free to use nacho cheese sauce.); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper

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As I stood in my kitchen, that irresistible aroma of sizzling steak and melting cheese swept me back to my years in Philly, where the street vendors served up the most iconic bites on every corner. That’s when I decided to elevate a classic favorite with my Epic Philly Cheesesteak Fries. This dish brings together crispy golden fries, savory sautéed steak, and vibrant peppers for a mouthwatering comfort food experience. It’s not just perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers; it also shines as a quick, hearty weeknight dinner that will satisfy everyone at your table. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that feels impressive yet entirely doable. Ready to indulge in a taste of Philly right at home? Let’s dive into the recipe together!

Why Should You Try Philly Cheesesteak Fries?

Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of crispy fries, tender steak, and gooey cheese creates an explosion of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can prepare this delightful dish in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Customizable Options: Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or switch up the cheese for a personalized twist. Explore variations to make it your own!

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Ideal for game day or gatherings, this dish caters to all taste buds, making it a sure-fire hit.

Versatile Base: Swap out regular fries for sweet potato fries as a great alternative, adding a nutritional boost. Check out these delicious Baked Asparagus Fries for more inspired vegetable side options!

With Philly Cheesesteak Fries, you’re not just serving a meal, but crafting an experience that will have your guests raving!

Philly Cheesesteak Fries Ingredients

For the Fries
• Crinkle Cut French Fries – The crispy base that holds all the delicious toppings; for a twist, try sweet potato fries for added sweetness.

For the Steak and Veggies
• Cooking Oil – Essential for sautéing; consider olive oil or avocado oil for a flavor boost.
• Onion – Adds a sweet depth of flavor; swap with shallots for a milder taste.
• Green Pepper – Provides crunch and earthiness; red or yellow peppers can offer different sweetness levels.
• Mushrooms – Introduces an umami richness; substitute cooked spinach if you prefer a different texture.
• Steak (thinly sliced) – The star of the dish; flank steak or ribeye work well, or use chicken for a lighter option.

For the Cheesy Topping
• Cheez Whiz – Creates that gooey, cheesy goodness; feel free to use nacho cheese sauce or melted cheddar for a homemade version.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste; adjust to meet your flavor and dietary preferences.

Enjoy whipping up these Philly Cheesesteak Fries—they’re sure to be a hit!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Philly Cheesesteak Fries

Step 1: Prepare Fries
Begin by cooking the crinkle cut French fries according to package instructions, aiming for a golden, crispy texture. Depending on your preference, bake or fry them at 425°F for 20-25 minutes or until they are perfectly crispy and golden brown. Once ready, set them aside on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and diced green peppers, sautéing for about 8 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, then transfer the sautéed vegetables to a plate, leaving the skillet for the steak.

Step 3: Cook Steak
In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and thinly sliced steak. Increase the heat to medium-high and stir-fry for about 10 minutes until the steak is cooked through and slightly browned, enticingly aromatic, and showing a few golden edges. Once ready, transfer the meat and mushrooms to the plate with the sautéed vegetables.

Step 4: Heat Cheese
While the steak is cooking, warm the Cheez Whiz in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until it becomes smooth and creamy—this usually takes around 3-5 minutes. For a quicker option, you can microwave it in a bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted.

Step 5: Assemble
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crispy fries, sautéed vegetables, and cooked steak mixture. Gently toss them together so each fry is coated with flavorful bits. Drizzle the melted Cheez Whiz generously over the top, ensuring every bite is indulgent and cheesy.

Step 6: Serve Immediately
Transfer the assembled Philly Cheesesteak Fries to a serving platter, allowing guests to dig into this glorious concoction right away. The combination of crunchy fries, juicy steak, vibrant peppers, and gooey cheese creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for sharing at game day or any gathering.

Make Ahead Options

Philly Cheesesteak Fries are perfect for meal prep, providing a delicious solution for busy weeknights! You can prepare the sautéed steak and vegetables up to 3 days in advance; simply cool them completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. For the fries, you can cook them just before serving to maintain their crispiness—freeze uncooked fries in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a bag for quick cooking later. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the steak and veggies in a skillet, assemble the fries, and drizzle with warm Cheez Whiz for that just-cooked, mouthwatering experience everyone will love!

Expert Tips for Philly Cheesesteak Fries

Pan-Dear Steaks: Avoid overcrowding the pan while sautéing the steak to ensure it cooks evenly and develops a nice brown crust.
Fry It Right: For extra crispy fries, opt to fry them instead of baking. The oil will create a delightful crunch!
Quality Matters: Use high-quality steak for the best flavor and tenderness; slicing it thinly will allow for quick cooking without sacrificing juiciness.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like provolone or cheddar, to customize your Philly Cheesesteak Fries and suit your taste buds.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sautéed veggies and steak before assembling, and adjust the seasoning of salt and pepper based on your preference.

What to Serve With Philly Cheesesteak Fries?

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that will leave your guests cheering for more.

Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy and tangy side offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cheesesteak fries. Its crisp texture adds a delightful contrast.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread serves as the perfect accompaniment for scooping up the cheesy goodness. Plus, it rounds out the hearty feel of your meal!
Buffalo Chicken Dip: For an extra kick, this spicy and creamy dip is a must-have for any gathering, creating a perfect blend of flavors that compliments the fries.
Sweet Potato Wedges: These slightly sweet and crispy wedges provide a nutritious alternative and a unique twist that harmonizes beautifully with the cheesesteak flavors.
Beer: A cold lager or an amber ale pairs well with the rich cheesesteak sauce, enhancing the entire meal experience with a refreshing finish.
Homemade Ranch Dressing: Serve this creamy, zesty dressing for dipping—its coolness contrasts with the warm fries and savory toppings.
Fresh Salad: A light green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites, ensuring each mouthful of cheesesteak fries is just as enjoyable as the last.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note! The warm, gooey cookies offer a delightful contrast to the savory course you’ve just enjoyed.

How to Store and Freeze Philly Cheesesteak Fries

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness of the fries while warming through the steak and cheese.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze assembled fries in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat frozen Philly Cheesesteak Fries in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, ensuring they heat evenly and regain their crunch.
Avoid Microwaving: Microwaves can make fries soggy. Stick with oven reheating to maintain the delightful texture of this comfort food.

Philly Cheesesteak Fries Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to bring your own flair to these delightful fries with these exciting variations!

Low-Carb Option: Substitute crinkle cut fries with cauliflower tots for a healthier, low-carb alternative. Perfect for those watching their carbs!
Veggie Delight: Replace steak with a mix of sautéed zucchini and bell peppers to create a vegetarian version. This colorful twist adds a delicious crunch.
Spice It Up: Add fresh jalapeños or sliced banana peppers for an extra kick. The heat of the peppers beautifully complements the rich cheese and steak flavors.
Cheeseboard Medley: Mix a variety of cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a sprinkling of blue cheese for a gourmet touch. Each bite delivers a unique taste experience.
Sweet Potato Fries: Swap traditional fries for sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness balances the savory toppings and pairs wonderfully with the savory steak.
Extra Crunch: Add crispy fried onions or bacon bits on top for a textural contrast that elevates every bite. It’s a crunchy, flavorful explosion that friends and family will adore!
Mushroom Magic: For umami lovers, enhance the dish by adding sautéed shiitake or portobello mushrooms. They deepen the savory profile and add a luscious texture.
Homemade Cheese Sauce: Instead of Cheez Whiz, whip up your own creamy cheese sauce using cheddar and cream. It makes the dish feel more homemade and special.

Pair your Philly Cheesesteak Fries with delicious dipping sauces like ranch or spicy ketchup for an added flavor boost, just like you would enjoy with your favorite cheesy dishes. It’s a meal that’s not just filling, but warming and satisfying too!

Philly Cheesesteak Fries Recipe FAQs

What type of fries should I use for Philly Cheesesteak Fries?
I recommend using crinkle cut French fries as they cook up crisp and hold the toppings beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also substitute them with sweet potato fries for a delicious twist.

How should I store leftovers from Philly Cheesesteak Fries?
Leftover Philly Cheesesteak Fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes so they regain their crispiness and aren’t soggy.

Can I freeze Philly Cheesesteak Fries?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the assembled Philly Cheesesteak Fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last for up to 2 months!

What should I do if my steak is tough?
If your steak turns out tough, it might be due to overcooking or using a cut that’s not tender enough. For the best results, use flank steak or ribeye, and slice the meat against the grain before cooking. This technique will ensure a tender bite every time.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! Since this dish includes both beef and Cheez Whiz, be mindful of guests with dietary restrictions. You can opt for lean chicken or turkey as a substitute for steak and choose a dairy-free cheese sauce to accommodate lactose intolerance. Be sure to check for any allergies with your ingredients too!

Can I customize my toppings for Philly Cheesesteak Fries?
Certainly! The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. For added flavor, consider tossing in jalapeños for some heat, or sprinkle fresh herbs, like parsley or green onions, right before serving. Enjoy making it your own!