Description
Loaded Steak Fries
Ingredients:
2 large potatoes, cut into fries
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb sirloin steak, cut into small cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the potato 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 golden and crispy.
Cook the steak: While the fries are baking, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Add the steak cubes to the skillet, seasoning with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, until the steak is browned and cooked through.
Assemble the dish: Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the fries. Return them to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Top and serve: Once the cheese is melted, top the fries with the cooked steak and onion mixture. Add dollops of sour cream and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious, hearty meal!
These loaded steak fries are perfect for a casual meal or as a fun snack, packed with savory flavors and cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, cut two large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch thick fries for even cooking. Toss them thoroughly with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet, then arrange in a strict single layer—this is key for crispiness. Bake on a middle rack for 15 minutes, then flip each fry and bake another 10-15 minutes until golden. Meanwhile, pat the sirloin cubes dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. In a hot skillet with oil, cook diced onion until translucent. Add the steak in a single layer, resisting the urge to stir for 2-3 minutes to develop a brown crust. Then, season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and finish cooking. The final assembly is crucial: sprinkle cheese over the hot fries and return to the oven just until melted, then immediately top with steak and garnishes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish immediately on a large platter for sharing. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also makes an excellent game-day appetizer or a fun, interactive dinner for a casual movie night. Consider offering small bowls of extra toppings like jalapeños, crispy bacon bits, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for customization.
How-to Summary
To make loaded steak fries: 1) Cut and bake seasoned potato fries until crispy. 2) Sear seasoned sirloin cubes with onions in a skillet. 3) Top the hot fries with cheese and melt briefly in the oven. 4) Finish by adding the steak, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fries to save time?
Yes, you can. Use a high-quality, extra-crispy frozen fry. Bake them according to the package directions, then proceed with adding the cheese and toppings.
What other cheeses work well?
Pepper Jack adds a spicy kick, while a Monterey Jack and cheddar blend offers great meltability. For a sharper flavor, try a mix of cheddar and gouda.
How do I prevent the fries from getting soggy?
Ensure your baked or cooked fries are very crispy before adding cheese. Assemble and serve immediately after adding the steak and wet toppings like sour cream.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can dice the steak and vegetables ahead of time, but cook everything fresh for assembly. Pre-cooked steak can become tough when reheated on the fries.
What’s the best cut of steak for this recipe?
Sirloin is ideal for its balance of flavor and tenderness. Ribeye offers more richness, while flank or skirt steak should be sliced very thinly against the grain after cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding the baking sheet or skillet steams the fries and steak instead of creating a crispy, browned exterior.
- Over-melting the Cheese: Leaving the fries in the oven too long after adding cheese can make the fries soggy. Melt just until gooey.
- Underseasoning: Season the fries and steak generously at each stage—potatoes need a good amount of salt.
- Using Cold Toppings: Adding cold sour cream straight from the fridge can cool the dish down quickly. Let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Loaded steak fries are the ultimate comfort food, transforming simple ingredients into a shareable, restaurant-quality dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve the perfect balance of crispy fries, savory steak, and melted cheese. This versatile recipe is sure to become a favorite for its delicious simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal. Dig in and enjoy the hearty, satisfying flavors.