Philly Cheesesteak Fries combine the best elements of a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich with crispy French fries, resulting in a mouthwatering comfort food dish that’s perfect for sharing. This fusion dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it ideal for game day, casual get-togethers, or as a hearty meal.
To prepare Philly Cheesesteak Fries, you will need:
Ingredients:
- Steak and Seasonings:
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- Vegetables and Oil:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Fries and Cheese:
- 1 lb frozen French fries
- 1 cup provolone or American cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the frozen French fries package. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake until they are golden and crispy, typically 20-25 minutes. This baking time allows you to prepare the steak and vegetables.
2. Cook the Steak:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet. Season the steak with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is browned and cooked through. Transfer the steak to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and slightly caramelized. This step adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and arrange them on a serving platter or a large baking dish. Layer the cooked steak over the fries, followed by the sautéed onions and bell peppers. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the platter or baking dish under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Be sure to watch closely to prevent the cheese from burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Fries hot, enjoying the delightful combination of crispy fries, tender steak, savory vegetables, and gooey cheese.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak Fries:
- Choosing the Right Steak: Ribeye is a traditional choice due to its tenderness and flavor, but sirloin can be a good alternative if you prefer a leaner cut.
- Cheese Options: While provolone and American cheese are classic choices, you can also experiment with mozzarella or even cheese whiz for different flavor profiles.
- Additional Toppings: Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, which complement the other ingredients beautifully. For an extra kick, sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate the dish.
Variations and Serving Suggestions:
Philly Cheesesteak Fries are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences:
- Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy twist.
- Loaded Fries: Top with additional ingredients like crispy bacon bits, chopped tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream for a more decadent version.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms and additional vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
Additional Tips:
- Homemade Fries: If you prefer, you can make homemade fries instead of using frozen ones. Simply cut potatoes into fries, toss them in a bit of oil and seasoning, and bake until crispy.
- Cheese Sauce: For an extra creamy version, make a cheese sauce by melting your choice of cheese with a bit of milk and butter. Drizzle this over the fries instead of using shredded cheese.
- Garnishing: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can add a burst of color and freshness to the dish. Sprinkle them on top just before serving.
This dish is perfect for game days, parties, or as a standalone meal. The crispy fries, savory steak, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables come together in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will please any crowd.
Philly Cheesesteak Fries offer a delightful and creative way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak in a new and exciting format. Customize the toppings and ingredients to your liking, and enjoy this indulgent and satisfying dish.