Oh, let me tell you about my absolute obsession with Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso! These crispy, golden brown fries paired with a gooey, cheesy sauce are honestly a match made in heaven. It’s like a hug for your taste buds! I’ve had countless evenings where I just wanted to chill with friends, turn on a game, and dive into a big bowl of these fries. They were a staple at our family gatherings, and every time I make them, I can’t help but smile, thinking of all those joyful moments.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the oodles of flavor packed into each bite. Whether you’re hosting a movie night, a game day party, or just want a scrumptious snack, these fries with cheesy queso are sure to please a crowd. Plus, who doesn’t love dipping perfectly crispy fries into a velvety cheese sauce? Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
What’s in Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso?
Potato Fries: The star of the show! I prefer using thick-cut fries because they hold up beautifully when dipped in the queso, giving you that satisfying crunch. Store-bought frozen fries are super convenient, but if you’re up for it, fresh-cut potatoes always taste better.
Olive Oil: This helps to achieve those extra crispy fries. A light drizzle is all you need to coat your fries before baking or frying. Extra virgin olive oil has a lovely flavor, but regular olive oil does the job too!
Seasoning Salt: A mix of coarse salt and spices to elevate the fries. You can customize your seasoning to include paprika, garlic powder, or even black pepper—whatever floats your boat!
Velveeta Cheese: This melty goodness is key for the cheesy queso. It melts down to a creamy texture that perfectly coats your fries. I won’t judge you if you want to sneak a little nibble while prepping!
Milk: A splash of milk in the cheese sauce makes it silky smooth. I find that whole milk works best, but you can use whatever milk you have on hand.
Fresh Jalapeños: Optional, but I highly recommend adding these for that spicy kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist!
Is Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso Good for You?
Now, let’s keep it real—these fries are definitely a comfort food but, like many delicious things, they come with a couple of considerations.
Potato Fries: Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and magnesium. However, when deep-fried or loaded with cheese, they can be high in calories and saturated fats. Moderation is key!
Cheese: While cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, it can also be high in fat and sodium. Velveeta does contain preservatives, so it’s best to enjoy cheesy queso in moderation.
Add in those fresh jalapeños, and you’ll get a nice boost of antioxidants too! So, go ahead, relish in this treat every now and then, but always keep in mind a balanced diet!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound **frozen potato fries** (thick-cut)
– 2 tablespoons **olive oil**
– 1 teaspoon **seasoning salt** (or to taste)
– 8 oz **Velveeta cheese**, cubed
– 1/2 cup **milk**
– 2 tablespoons **fresh jalapeños**, diced (optional)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with seasoning salt—toss to coat them evenly!
3. Bake the fries according to the package instructions, or until golden and crispy, usually about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through to get them crunchy on all sides.
4. While the fries are baking, prepare the cheesy queso: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cubed Velveeta cheese and milk. Stir frequently until melted and smooth.
5. If you’re using jalapeños, fold them into the cheese sauce once it’s melted.
6. Once the fries are out of the oven, place them on a serving platter. Drizzle that cheesy queso all over those fries or serve it in a bowl for dipping!
7. Enjoy with friends, family, or all by yourself—no judgment here!
Cheesy Tips for Your Fries
– For extra flavor, try sprinkling some paprika or garlic powder over the fries before baking.
– You can also jazz up the queso by adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for a heartier take!
– Consider pairing these fries with a fresh side salad to balance out your meal—trust me, you’ll feel a bit better about indulging!
I really hope you give Philadelphia Steak Fries with Cheesy Queso a try. They’re perfect for any gathering or just a cozy evening at home. Honestly, once you’ve had them, you might find yourself craving them more often than you’d like to admit! If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you—happy cooking!