Description
Loaded Steak and Cheese Fries
Turn your fries into the ultimate comfort food with this recipe for Loaded Steak and Cheese Fries! Crispy fries topped with tender steak, creamy cheese sauce, and gooey melted cheese make for a decadent appetizer or main course. Perfect for sharing—or not!
Ingredients
:
For the fries:
1 lb frozen or fresh French fries
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the steak:
1/2 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the cheese sauce:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings:
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
:
Prepare the fries:
Cook the fries according to package instructions or until golden and crispy. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper while hot. Set aside.
Cook the steak:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak slices with salt and pepper.
Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side until cooked to your liking. Add minced garlic for the final 30 seconds. Remove from heat.
Make the cheese sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the loaded fries:
Arrange the fries on a large plate or baking dish. Layer with cooked steak slices, drizzle with cheese sauce, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or cheddar.
Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve:
Top with fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve hot and enjoy with friends or family!
Pro Tips:
Add toppings like crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of sour cream.
Loaded Steak and Cheese Fries are the ultimate indulgence. Whether for game day, a party, or just because, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven for the fries and get your skillet hot for the steak—simultaneous prep is key. Cook the fries until extra crispy; this prevents sogginess once loaded. While they bake, slice your steak thinly against the grain for tenderness. Sear the steak in the hot skillet, only adding the garlic at the end to avoid burning. For the cheese sauce, keep the heat at medium and whisk constantly to create a smooth roux before slowly adding the milk. Assemble immediately while all components are hot to ensure melted, cohesive layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish on a large, shareable platter for a fun, communal eating experience. For a complete spread, pair it with a light, crisp side salad to cut through the richness. Offer small bowls of additional toppings like diced tomatoes, green onions, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, and ranch or chipotle aioli for dipping. It makes an excellent centerpiece for game-day gatherings, movie nights, or casual dinners.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook fries until crispy. Sear seasoned steak slices with garlic. Prepare a simple cheese sauce from a butter-flour roux, milk, and cheddar. Assemble by layering fries, steak, cheese sauce, and extra shredded cheese. Broil briefly to melt, then garnish with parsley. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, while ribeye or sirloin are ideal for flavor and tenderness, you can use flank or skirt steak. Just be sure to slice it very thinly against the grain after cooking.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Prep components separately: cook the steak and sauce, storing them in the fridge. Reheat gently (sauce may need thinning with milk) and assemble with freshly cooked fries.
My cheese sauce is lumpy. How can I fix it?
Ensure your milk is warm or at room temperature before adding it to the roux. Whisk vigorously. If lumps form, strain the sauce through a sieve or use an immersion blender.
Can I make this in the oven only?
Absolutely. Bake the fries, then top with raw seasoned steak strips and cheeses. Broil until the steak is cooked and cheese is bubbly, then drizzle with a pre-made cheese sauce.
What are the best fries to use for this recipe?
Frozen steak fries or crinkle-cut fries hold up best under the weight of the toppings due to their sturdiness and surface area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid undercooking the fries; they must be very crispy to prevent becoming soggy.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when searing the steak, as this steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust.
- When making the cheese sauce, do not use high heat, which can cause the sauce to break or the flour to taste raw.
- Do not skip the final broiling step. This crucial step melts the top layer of cheese and binds everything together.
- Avoid assembling the dish too far in advance. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Conclusion
Loaded Steak and Cheese Fries transform a simple side into a spectacular, satisfying meal. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can master this crowd-pleasing dish. Remember the key elements: crispy fries, perfectly seared steak, a smooth cheese sauce, and prompt assembly. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, this recipe delivers on flavor, comfort, and undeniable indulgence. Dig in and enjoy the delicious results!