Side Dishes

Cheesy Philly Steak Fries

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When two of the most comforting foods—cheesy fries and Philly cheesesteaks—join forces, the result is pure magic. Cheesy Philly Steak Fries take crispy homemade fries, juicy ribeye steak, sautéed onions and peppers, and melty cheese and turn them into a hearty, mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for sharing (or not). Whether you’re planning a game day spread, a weekend indulgence, or a fun dinner with a twist, this recipe is your ticket to crowd-pleasing flavor.


Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Philly Steak Fries

This recipe isn’t just about throwing a few ingredients on fries. It’s about layering bold flavors and textures to recreate that classic Philly cheesesteak experience—only better because, let’s face it, everything’s better on fries. Here’s why this dish stands out:

  • Crispy Homemade Fries – Golden and perfectly seasoned.
  • Tender Ribeye Steak – Juicy and full of rich flavor.
  • Sautéed Onions and Peppers – Classic Philly style.
  • Two Kinds of Cheese – Provolone for depth, mozzarella for that stretchy, melty goodness.
  • Customizable – Add your favorite toppings and make it your own.
  • Comfort Food at Its Best – Cheesy, meaty, and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Fries:

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Steak Topping:

  • 1 lb ribeye steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (optional, but highly recommended)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Cheese:

  • 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Cheesy Philly Steak Fries

Step 1: Prepare the Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash, peel, and slice the russet potatoes into thin fries. Toss the fries in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before drying and seasoning. This helps remove excess starch.

Step 2: Cook the Steak

While the fries are baking, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced ribeye steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3–5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Shortcut Tip: You can use pre-sliced “shaved steak” found in the grocery store meat section for quicker prep.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Fries

Once the fries are done, arrange them on a large oven-safe serving platter or sheet pan. Top with the cooked steak, sautéed onions, peppers, and garlic.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Broil

Sprinkle both the provolone and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the steak and veggie mixture. Place the dish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown slightly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. These are best enjoyed hot and gooey right out of the oven.


Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Broiler-safe dish or sheet pan
  • Oven and stovetop

Helpful Tips and Variations

Choose the Right Steak

Ribeye is ideal because of its marbling and tenderness, but you can also use sirloin, flank steak, or even leftover roast beef in a pinch.

Swap the Cheese

  • Try Cheez Whiz for a more authentic Philly street food vibe.
  • Add pepper jack for a spicy twist.
  • Use American cheese if you prefer it ultra-creamy.

Veggie Options

  • Omit the bell pepper if you want a more traditional cheesesteak.
  • Add jalapeños, mushrooms, or even caramelized onions for more flavor layers.

Make It a Meal

Serve with a simple side salad or coleslaw to lighten things up. Or, enjoy with a cold beer or a classic soda for the ultimate comfort food experience.


What to Serve with Philly Steak Fries

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs well with:

  • Classic Coleslaw
  • Pickles or Pickled Jalapeños
  • Garlic Breadsticks
  • Onion Rings or Fried Pickles

Drink Pairings:

  • Beer: A cold lager, pale ale, or porter complements the savory richness.
  • Wine: A light red like Pinot Noir or a dry rosé works well.
  • Non-Alcoholic: Root beer, ginger ale, or iced tea.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

For best results, reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Microwave reheating will soften the fries, but it’s fine in a pinch.

Freezing:

Fries don’t freeze well after being topped with cheese and steak, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fries instead of homemade?

Yes! Just bake them according to the package directions. Choose thick-cut or steak fries for best results.

What cut of beef works best?

Ribeye is ideal, but flank steak, sirloin, or shaved beef work great too. Always slice thin against the grain.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives like seitan or soy curls.

How can I make this spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or use pepper jack cheese.

Is this gluten-free?

The fries and most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check labels on cheese and seasoning. Use gluten-free cheese and certified GF steak sauce if needed.


Final Thoughts

Cheesy Philly Steak Fries are the best kind of indulgence—crispy, cheesy, meaty, and made to share (or not). They bring the best of a Philly cheesesteak to your plate in a fun, easy-to-make format that’s ideal for game nights, lazy Sundays, or satisfying any cheesy craving.


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