There’s something irresistible about the perfect combination of crispy fries, savory steak, and a waterfall of melted cheese. Picture this: it was a cozy Friday night after a long week, and I found myself craving something beyond the ordinary takeout. That’s when my mind wandered to these Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries. A delightful dish born from a love for comfort food, they're bursting with flavor and crowd-pleasing vibes that make any gathering feel special.
With just a handful of ingredients, including tender ribeye steak and vibrant bell peppers, this recipe showcases how easy it is to elevate simple frozen fries into a gorgeous, mouthwatering feast. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a game day party or treat yourself to a cozy night in, these fries are the answer. Plus, they come together in less than an hour, making them the perfect antidote to fast-food fatigue. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this cheesy, hearty delight that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Why You'll Love This Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries
- These Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in less than an hour.
- The combination of savory steak, sautéed veggies, and a generous layer of melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that will satisfy your cravings.
- Their versatility means you can customize the toppings to fit your taste, making them perfect for any occasion.
- The visual appeal of this dish, with its colorful ingredients and gooey cheese, makes it a standout at gatherings and ensures everyone will be reaching for seconds.
Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries Ingredients
For the Fries
• 1 lb frozen thick-cut French fries – a convenient base that becomes crispy perfection in the oven.
For the Steak
• 8 oz ribeye or sirloin steak – choose ribeye for a juicier, more flavorful dish that's true to traditional cheesesteak.
For the Veggies
• 1 medium sweet onion, sliced – adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), sliced – a vibrant mix for color and crunch in your Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries.
For the Cheese
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – melts beautifully and provides that satisfying cheesy goodness everyone loves.
For the Sauce
• ½ cup zesty marinara pasta sauce – a tasty drizzle that enhances the flavors and adds a punch of zest.
For Toppings
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the steak and veggies, ensuring they’re delicious and well-cooked.
• 2 green onions, sliced (for topping) – fresh garnish for added flavor and a pop of color.
• ¼ cup sour cream (for serving) – creamy texture that complements the spices and richness of the dish.
How to Make Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is essential for achieving perfectly crispy fries!
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Bake Fries: Spread the frozen fries evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake according to package instructions until they turn golden brown, usually around 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them for that irresistible crunch!
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Sauté Steak: While the fries are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak with salt and pepper, then cook for about 4–5 minutes per side until it’s browned and cooked to your preferred level.
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Cook Veggies: After removing the steak from the skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the same pan. Sauté these vibrant veggies for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
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Slice Steak: Once your steak has cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes. This is crucial for juicy slices! After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain.
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Layer and Melt: By now, your fries should be ready! Layer them with the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and sliced steak. Top everything generously with shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Return the loaded fries to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is beautifully melted.
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Serve: Grab your Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries from the oven and serve hot. Top them with zesty marinara sauce, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
Optional: Add jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries are perfect for meal prep, letting you enjoy this comfort food without the last-minute rush! You can slice the steak, sauté the onions and bell peppers, and even bake the fries up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate these components separately to maintain their quality. On the day you want to serve them, just layer the refrigerated fries with sautéed veggies and sliced steak, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, then pop them in the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt that glorious cheese! This way, you'll have a deliciously cheesy feast ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests!
How to Store and Freeze Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries
Fridge: Store leftover Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled fries before baking. Wrap tightly in foil or use a freezer bag, and they’ll keep for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To reheat cooked fries, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore that crispy goodness.
Serving: Enjoy them hot, with marinara sauce and sour cream. Always reheat until they’re steaming hot for the best flavor!
Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries Variations
Feel free to make these loaded fries your own with a few delightful twists that will excite your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Swap the steak for grilled mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based alternative. The umami flavors will satisfy cravings without the meat!
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Spicy: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed onions and bell peppers for a delicious kick. You can easily adjust the heat level to your liking.
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Cheese Meltdown: Experiment with different kinds of cheese like pepper jack, Gouda, or even blue cheese for a gourmet touch. Each variety brings its own unique flavor profile.
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Smoky: For a hint of smokiness, try adding smoked paprika to the fries before baking, or choose smoked Gouda cheese for extra depth. It’ll bring an exciting twist to the dish.
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Creamy: Instead of sour cream, use ranch or a creamy chipotle sauce for a delightful twist. This creamy alternative complements the bold flavors beautifully.
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BBQ Twist: Drizzle some BBQ sauce over the loaded fries before serving for a sweet and tangy flavor that enhances the beefy goodness. It’s a fun way to change things up!
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Loaded Veggie: Add toppings like diced avocado, corn, or black beans for an even heartier option. The extra textures and flavors will make every bite a surprise!
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Sweet Surprise: Consider caramelized onions instead of sautéed ones for a sweet and savory balance. Their natural sugars will caramelize beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor.
These variations offer endless possibilities, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make your Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries truly unique!
What to Serve with Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries?
Nothing elevates a cozy gathering or casual dinner quite like a plate of indulgent loaded fries, drizzled with flavor and packed to the brim with deliciousness.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a crunchy texture and tangy zest that balances the richness of cheesy fries.
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Garlicky Green Beans: Tender, sautéed green beans bring a vibrant green touch alongside the fries, enhancing both taste and nutrition.
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Spicy Buffalo Wings: Adding a fiery twist, these wings can spice up your meal and bring a finger-licking fun element to the table.
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Crunchy Pickles: The briny crunch of pickles provides the perfect contrast to the gooey texture of the loaded fries—each bite is a delightful surprise.
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Sweet Corn Salad: This bright and fresh salad, with a hint of sweetness, complements the savory flavors of the fries while adding a pop of color.
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Creamy Ranch Dressing: A side of ranch pairs excellently for dipping, adding a rich and cool finish to the bold flavors of your dish.
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Beer or Cider: Pair your meal with an ice-cold beer or fruity cider to enhance the whole experience and complement those savory tastes.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, satisfy your sweet tooth with warm, gooey cookies, ensuring a perfectly rounded meal that feels like a treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries, ensure your fries are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet to maximize crispiness.
- A common mistake is to overcrowd the pan, which can lead to soggy fries.
- For the steak, let it rest after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
- While the cheese is melting, keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, usually around 5 minutes is perfect at the high oven temperature.
Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best steak for my Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries?
For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend a ribeye steak, as it has more marbling and juiciness compared to sirloin. Look for cuts with even fat distribution and a rich red color. If you're opting for sirloin, ensure it's well-trimmed and fresh, as it’s a leaner choice.
How should I store leftover Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries?
Absolutely! After enjoying your delicious fries, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay good for up to 3 days. When you're ready to indulge again, simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will help reclaim their crispy texture!
Can I freeze Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries?
Yes, you can! I often prepare a double batch and freeze one for later. To freeze, layer the assembled fries (without baking) in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 1 month. When baking from frozen, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the oven time.
What if my fries are soggy after baking?
Oh no! Soggy fries can happen if they're overcrowded on the baking sheet or if they were slightly thawed before baking. For future batches, ensure they are spaced out evenly on the sheet and always bake directly from the freezer. This helps achieve that desirable crunch!
Are Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries safe for children and pets?
While kids can enjoy this dish in moderation, keep an eye on the spice levels if you've added anything like jalapeños. For pets, especially dogs, it's best to avoid giving them these fries due to the seasonings and ingredients like sour cream that might upset their stomachs. Always consider their dietary needs first!
Can I customize the toppings on my Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries?
Very! The more the merrier when it comes to toppings! Try adding sliced jalapeños for heat, avocado for creaminess, or even fresh cilantro for brightness. You can also swap out the cheddar for other cheese varieties such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor twist!
Extra Cheesy Loaded Cheesesteak Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread the frozen fries evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake according to package instructions until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned.
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Let the cooked steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.
- Layer the fries with the sautéed onions, bell peppers, and sliced steak. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, topped with zesty marinara sauce, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
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