If you’re a fan of comfort food with a twist, Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso is a recipe that will quickly become a favorite. Combining the savory goodness of tender steak, crispy fries, and creamy queso, this dish is perfect for game day, casual get-togethers, or a cozy night in. It’s a delicious, hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Why You’ll Love Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso
This dish brings together the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and the crispy, irresistible nature of loaded fries. The tender steak strips, melted cheese, and rich queso create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or serving it at a party, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients for Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 1 lb flank steak or ribeye, thinly sliced
- 1 packet of steak seasoning (or your favorite seasoning blend)
- 4 large russet potatoes (or frozen steak fries)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese (or a mix of provolone and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup queso dip (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To prepare Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For slicing the steak, potatoes, and vegetables.
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan: For cooking the steak and veggies.
- Baking sheet: For baking the fries.
- Mixing bowl: To toss the fries with oil and seasoning.
- Oven: To bake the fries and melt the cheese.
- Microwave or small saucepan: To warm the queso dip.
How to Make Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso
Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering dish that combines all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the satisfying crunch of loaded fries:
- Prepare the Fries: If you’re using fresh potatoes, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes into thick steak fry shapes. In a mixing bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy. If using frozen fries, bake according to the package instructions.
- Cook the Steak: While the fries are baking, heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the pan. Season the sliced steak with steak seasoning, then add it to the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside.
- Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Assemble the Fries: Once the fries are done baking, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the shredded provolone and cheddar cheeses over the top. Return the fries to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with Steak and Queso: Remove the cheesy fries from the oven and top them with the cooked steak slices, sautéed onions, and peppers. Drizzle the warm queso dip over the top. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the loaded steak fries hot, with extra queso or your favorite dipping sauces on the side.
Tips for Perfect Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso
- Choosing the Steak: Ribeye and flank steak are excellent choices for this dish because they’re tender and flavorful. Be sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain for the best texture.
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought Queso: While store-bought queso is convenient, making your own queso dip from scratch can elevate the dish. You can make it by melting Velveeta with a bit of milk and adding in diced green chilies, jalapeños, or your favorite spices.
- Crispy Fries: For the crispiest fries, make sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding.
Variations on Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso
- Chicken Philly Fries: Swap out the steak for thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter version of the dish.
- Loaded Veggie Fries: For a vegetarian twist, replace the steak with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and additional veggies.
- Spicy Steak Fries: Add some heat by incorporating sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the dish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread the fries out on a baking sheet and warm them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Reheating in the oven helps to maintain the crispiness of the fries.
What to Serve with Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs well with a few sides:
- Crisp Salad: Balance the richness of the fries with a fresh green salad topped with a light vinaigrette.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up any extra queso and juices from the steak.
- Cold Beverages: A cold beer or a refreshing iced tea complements the savory, cheesy flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the steak and sautéed veggies ahead of time, but for the best results, bake the fries and assemble the dish just before serving to ensure everything is fresh and crispy.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a sharp white cheddar would all be great choices.
Q: What other toppings can I add?
A: Get creative! You can add toppings like sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, crumbled bacon, or even a dollop of sour cream.
Conclusion
Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the best elements of a classic Philly cheesesteak and indulgent, cheesy fries. Whether you’re serving this at a party or enjoying it as a special treat, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients!