Loaded Philly Cheesesteak Fries

This irresistibly indulgent Philly Cheesesteak Fries recipe transforms two comfort food classics into one extraordinary dish. The crispy fries topped with savory shaved steak and smothered in creamy homemade cheese sauce creates the ultimate crowd-pleasing meal or appetizer that disappears within minutes at every gathering.

I first made these Philly Cheesesteak Fries during a football playoff party, and they became an instant hit. Now my friends specifically request this dish whenever they come over, often hovering around the kitchen asking when the next batch will be ready.

Ingredients

• Butter: Acts as the base for your homemade cheese sauce, creating richness and smoothness
• Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce perfectly without clumping when properly incorporated
• Milk: Creates the creamy consistency in your sauce, look for whole milk for maximum richness
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and provides that stretchy cheese pull everyone loves
• Frozen fries: Save time while still delivering crispy texture, choose thick-cut for best results
• Shaved steak: Cooks quickly and distributes evenly throughout the dish, find it pre-sliced or ask your butcher
• Garlic powder: Infuses the meat with savory flavor without the burn of fresh garlic
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and brings the dish together
• Oil: With a high smoke point, ensures your steak browns perfectly
• Green onions: Add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor to finish the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until completely liquified but not browning. Add flour and continuously stir with a wooden spoon or whisk for a full 1-2 minutes to create a golden roux. This cooking step is crucial as it eliminates the raw flour taste while creating the base for your silky cheese sauce.

Create the Béchamel Base:

Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue stirring for 3-5 minutes as the mixture gradually thickens to a smooth consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Maintain even heat to prevent scorching at the bottom of the pan.

Add the Cheese:

Reduce heat to low and add the mozzarella cheese in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until completely melted before adding more. This gradual approach prevents clumping and ensures a velvety texture. Once all cheese is incorporated, your sauce should be smooth and glossy. Set aside but stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

Cook the Steak:

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the shaved steak in a single layer if possible, working in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding. Season evenly with garlic powder and salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping and breaking apart larger pieces with a spatula until the meat is nicely browned with slightly crispy edges.

Prepare the Fries:

Cook your fries according to package instructions for maximum crispiness. If using frozen fries, consider cooking them slightly longer than recommended for extra crispness to hold up under the toppings. For fresh-cut fries, ensure they're thoroughly dried before frying for best results.

Assemble the Dish:

Arrange the hot fries on a large serving platter or individual plates. Layer generously with the cooked steak pieces, distributing evenly. Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over everything, allowing it to cascade down into the fries. For a more dramatic presentation, add a second layer of fries, steak, and cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions.

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You Must Know

• These fries contain approximately 850 calories per serving making them a special indulgence
• The dish combines protein, carbs, and dairy for a satisfying complete meal
• Can be customized with additional toppings like sautéed bell peppers and onions

My favorite part of this recipe is watching the cheese sauce cascade over the hot fries and steak. There's something magical about that moment when all the components come together. My husband always positions himself near the kitchen during preparation, mysteriously appearing right as I'm about to serve this dish.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the cheese sauce up to two days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, reheat it slowly on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency. The steak can also be cooked a day ahead, but the fries should always be freshly prepared for maximum crispiness.

Brilliant Variations

Transform this dish by adding sautéed onions and bell peppers to create a more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience. For heat lovers, incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese sauce. Want a gourmet twist? Substitute the mozzarella with a combination of provolone and white American cheese for a more complex flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these loaded fries family-style on a large platter for a casual gathering, or portion into individual servings for a more formal presentation. They pair perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For beverages, a cold craft beer or lemonade complements the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating

While best enjoyed immediately, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, spread the fries on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 10 minutes. The cheese sauce may separate slightly but can be revitalized with gentle heating and stirring.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of fries work best for this dish?

Thick-cut or steak fries work particularly well as they can support the weight of the toppings. However, any style of fries including crinkle-cut, shoestring, or even waffle fries can be used based on personal preference. For best results, ensure your fries are cooked until very crispy to prevent them from becoming soggy under the toppings.

→ Can I substitute the shaved steak with something else?

Yes, you can substitute shaved steak with thinly sliced ribeye, sirloin, or even ground beef seasoned with Philly cheesesteak spices. For a vegetarian option, consider using portobello mushrooms sliced thin and sautéed with the same seasonings.

→ How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?

For an extra smooth cheese sauce, ensure your mozzarella is finely shredded and add it to the white sauce gradually while keeping the heat low. You can also add a tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream. Using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged will also result in a smoother texture as it doesn't contain anti-caking agents.

→ Can I prepare components of this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the steak ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat the cheese sauce gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its consistency. The steak can be reheated quickly in a hot skillet. Cook the fries fresh just before serving for best results.

→ What other toppings can I add to these fries?

Traditional Philly cheesesteak additions include sautéed bell peppers and onions, which would make excellent additions. You could also add jalapeños for heat, bacon bits for extra flavor, or mushrooms. For extra indulgence, consider adding a second type of cheese like provolone or American on top.

→ How do I keep the fries crispy under all the toppings?

Cook your fries until they're extra crispy, and serve immediately after assembling. Alternatively, you can serve the cheese sauce and steak separately in bowls alongside the fries, allowing everyone to add their own toppings. This prevents the fries from becoming soggy and lets guests customize their portions.