Delicious Philly Steak Cheese Fries Recipe
Philly Steak Cheese Fries combine the bold flavors of classic Philadelphia cheesesteak with the indulgent comfort of loaded fries. This hearty dish features tender strips of beef, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese sauce served over crispy fries. Perfect for game day snacks, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners, Philly Steak Cheese Fries are sure to impress with their irresistible taste and satisfying texture.
Ingredients:
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk, warmed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fries and Toppings:
- 1 bag frozen French fries
- 1 pound thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye or sirloin)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sliced jalapenos, hot sauce
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Steak and Vegetables:
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced steak, onions, and bell peppers to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cook until the steak is browned and the vegetables are caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the French Fries:
- While the steak and vegetables are cooking, bake the frozen French fries according to the package instructions until golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Philly Steak Cheese Fries:
- Arrange the cooked French fries on a large serving platter or individual plates.
- Top the fries with the cooked steak and vegetables, distributing evenly.
- Drizzle the warm cheese sauce generously over the steak and vegetables.
- Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped green onions, sliced jalapenos, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Philly Steak Cheese Fries immediately while hot, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures.
Cooking Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with sliced mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the cheese sauce and choose gluten-free French fries to accommodate a gluten-free diet.
- Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat to your Philly Steak Cheese Fries by incorporating sliced jalapenos, crushed red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce into the dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Modifications:
- Cauliflower Fries: Swap traditional French fries for homemade or store-bought cauliflower fries to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Cheese Sauce Alternative: Make a keto-friendly cheese sauce using heavy cream, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese instead of milk and flour.
- Use Keto-Friendly Sweeteners: If desired, replace the white flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a low-carb alternative in the cheese sauce.
Philly Steak Cheese Fries are the ultimate comfort food indulgence, combining savory steak, melty cheese, and crispy fries into one mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. With its customizable toppings and easy preparation, Philly Steak Cheese Fries are sure to become a favorite go-to recipe for any occasion
Adding Depth to the Dish:
To elevate the flavors of your Philly Steak Cheese Fries, consider adding some additional ingredients and seasonings. Here are a few ideas to enhance the taste profile:
- Herbs and Seasonings: Sprinkle some dried herbs such as oregano, basil, or parsley over the cheese sauce for added freshness and aroma. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to give the dish a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- Caramelized Onions: For an extra layer of sweetness and depth, caramelize the onions slowly in a skillet until they turn golden brown and tender. This process enhances their natural sweetness and adds a rich flavor to the overall dish.
- Garlic Infusion: Infuse the cheese sauce with minced garlic for a fragrant and flavorful addition. Simply sauté the garlic in butter before adding the flour and milk to create a delicious garlic-infused cheese sauce.
- Fresh Herbs and Citrus Zest: Garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives for a burst of color and freshness. You can also add a hint of citrus zest such as lemon or lime to brighten up the flavors.
Customizing the Toppings:
One of the best things about Philly Steak Cheese Fries is that you can customize the toppings according to your taste preferences. Here are some creative topping ideas to consider:
- Bacon Crumbles: Crumble crispy cooked bacon over the top of the cheese sauce for a salty and smoky flavor boost.
- Avocado Slices: Add creamy slices of ripe avocado for a buttery texture and fresh taste that complements the richness of the cheese sauce.
- Sour Cream: Dollop a spoonful of sour cream on top of the fries for a tangy contrast to the savory flavors.
- Salsa or Pico de Gallo: Top the fries with homemade salsa or pico de gallo for a zesty and refreshing touch.
- Guacamole: Spread a layer of homemade or store-bought guacamole over the fries for a creamy and flavorful topping.
Experimenting with Different Cheeses:
While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for Philly Steak Cheese Fries, you can experiment with other types of cheese to create unique flavor combinations. Here are some cheese options to consider:
- Monterey Jack: This mild and creamy cheese melts beautifully and adds a subtle tangy flavor to the dish.
- Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick, use pepper jack cheese, which is infused with spicy jalapeno peppers for added heat.
- Gouda: With its rich and nutty flavor, gouda cheese pairs well with the savory steak and vegetables, adding a hint of smokiness to the dish.
- Blue Cheese: For a bold and tangy twist, crumble some blue cheese over the fries before drizzling on the cheese sauce. The sharp flavor of blue cheese complements the richness of the steak and cheese sauce.
With its irresistible combination of savory steak, gooey cheese sauce, and crispy fries, Philly Steak Cheese Fries are a crowd-pleasing favorite that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering with friends or simply craving a comforting meal, this indulgent dish is sure to hit the spot. By incorporating these tips and variations, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and create a truly unforgettable dining experience. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food classic!
