Few dishes can match the irresistible combination of crispy fries, tender steak, and gooey melted cheese. These Philly Steak Cheese Fries bring all the bold flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak to your plate—served over a bed of golden fries instead of a sandwich roll. It’s a mouthwatering twist on a favorite comfort food that’s perfect for game nights, parties, or a cozy weekend indulgence. When I first made these, I used provolone instead of the usual cheese sauce, and it added a rich, melty layer that complemented the steak beautifully. The result is a dish that’s messy, satisfying, and impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Philly Steak Cheese Fries take everything you love about a cheesesteak and turn it into a shareable, fork-friendly experience. The fries provide the perfect crunchy base, while the juicy, seasoned steak and caramelized onions create that signature Philly flavor. Topped with a luscious cheese sauce or melted provolone, it’s hearty enough for a main course but also perfect for sharing. You can customize it easily with extra toppings like mushrooms, peppers, or jalapeños to suit your taste.
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Philly Steak Cheese Fries: A Hearty, Indulgent Comfort Food Classic
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy golden fries loaded with tender slices of Philly steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and smothered in gooey melted cheese — the ultimate comfort food fusion of Philly cheesesteak and loaded fries.
Ingredients
- 1 lb frozen or homemade French fries
- 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cheese sauce (optional, for drizzling)
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and cook French fries according to package directions until golden and crispy. Keep warm.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and peppers and sauté until soft and lightly caramelized (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add thinly sliced steak, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and tender.
- Arrange cooked fries on a large baking sheet or serving platter.
- Top fries with the cooked steak mixture evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded provolone (or mozzarella) over the top and place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, just until melted.
- Drizzle with warm cheese sauce, if using, and garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.
Notes
- For an authentic Philly flavor, use provolone or white American cheese.
- Ribeye is ideal for tenderness, but flank steak or sirloin also work well.
- Can be served on a cast iron skillet for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ribeye Steak
The traditional choice for a Philly cheesesteak—tender, flavorful, and perfectly marbled. Slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture. If you’re on a budget, flank steak or sirloin works too.
Frozen or Fresh Fries
Crispy fries are the foundation of this dish. I prefer using thick-cut or steak fries, as they hold up well under the cheese and steak toppings. Bake or air fry until golden brown.
Onion
Thinly sliced onions are sautéed until golden and caramelized, giving a sweet depth of flavor that balances the savory steak.
Green Bell Pepper (Optional)
While traditional Philly cheesesteaks don’t always include peppers, I love adding them for color and a slight crunch.
Cheese Sauce
A creamy homemade cheese sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheddar or provolone. It coats the fries and steak perfectly.
Provolone or American Cheese
If you prefer melted cheese slices instead of sauce, layer them over the steak just before serving for that classic gooey pull.
Butter and Olive Oil
Used for sautéing the steak and vegetables, adding richness and flavor.
Garlic Powder and Paprika
Simple seasonings that enhance the steak’s flavor without overpowering it.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish—from the fries to the steak.
Fresh Parsley (Optional)
A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a touch of freshness and color before serving.
Directions
- Preheat the oven and cook your fries according to package directions until golden and crisp. Set aside on a serving platter.
- While the fries bake, heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions (and peppers, if using) and sauté until caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add thinly sliced steak. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until browned and tender.
- Return the onions and peppers to the skillet and toss with the steak to combine. Keep warm on low heat.
- Prepare the cheese sauce by melting butter in a small saucepan. Whisk in flour, cook for 1 minute, then slowly add milk. Stir until thickened and smooth. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Arrange the fries on a platter, top with the steak mixture, and drizzle generously with cheese sauce (or layer slices of provolone to melt).
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot and melty.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
Serves 4 as a main dish or 6 as an appetizer.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Storage/reheating
For best results, enjoy immediately while the fries are still crispy. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the fries.
Variations and Customizations
Classic Philly Cheesesteak Fries
Stick to steak, onions, and melted provolone for an authentic flavor profile.
Loaded Philly Fries
Top with sautéed mushrooms, green peppers, and a drizzle of spicy mayo or ranch.
Cheesy Jalapeño Fries
Add pickled jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Garlic Butter Steak Fries
Toss the fries in garlic butter before topping for extra richness.
BBQ Philly Fries
Drizzle with BBQ sauce instead of cheese sauce for a smoky-sweet twist.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the steak with sautéed portobello mushrooms or a plant-based steak substitute.
Cheese Whiz Style
Use warm Cheese Whiz instead of homemade cheese sauce for a quick, classic Philly flavor.
Breakfast Philly Fries
Add scrambled eggs and crispy bacon on top for a hearty brunch version.
FAQs
1. What’s the best steak cut for Philly cheese fries?
Ribeye is traditional, but sirloin or flank steak also work well.
2. Can I make these with leftover steak?
Yes, just slice it thinly and warm it briefly in a skillet before assembling.
3. Can I use frozen fries?
Absolutely—just bake or air fry until crisp before adding toppings.
4. What cheese works best?
Provolone, American, or cheddar all melt beautifully. Use your favorite.
5. How do I make the fries extra crispy?
Spread them in a single layer and bake or air fry until golden and crunchy.
6. Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, cook the steak and onions in advance and reheat just before serving.
7. What can I serve with Philly steak fries?
They pair well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
8. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
9. Is there a low-carb version?
Serve the steak and cheese over roasted cauliflower instead of fries.
10. How do I keep the fries from getting soggy?
Add the cheese sauce just before serving, and serve immediately.
Conclusion
Philly Steak Cheese Fries combine everything you crave in a hearty comfort meal—crispy fries, tender steak, and rich, melty cheese. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends or enjoy solo when you need something indulgent and satisfying. Whether you stick with the classic Philly flavors or add your own twist, these loaded fries will quickly become a go-to favorite whenever you’re in the mood for something bold and delicious.
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