Description
Loaded Steak Cheese Fries
“Crispy fries loaded with tender steak bites, gooey melted cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs—a comfort food favorite!”
Ingredients:
For the Fries:
500g frozen or fresh fries
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Steak Topping:
250g steak (thinly sliced or cubed)
1 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp butter
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Fries:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread the fries on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Cook the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak slices, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the steak is browned and tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Cook until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
Assemble the Loaded Fries:
Place the cooked fries on a serving plate. Top with the steak bites and drizzle generously with the cheese sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a finishing touch.
This indulgent dish is perfect for sharing or enjoying as a hearty meal. Packed with flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect loaded fries every time. First, begin preheating your oven and preparing your baking sheet. While the fries bake, focus on mise en place: slice your steak, mince garlic, and shred cheeses if not pre-shredded. As the fries near the 15-minute mark, start cooking the steak in your skillet to ensure both components finish hot. Immediately after removing the steak, use the same skillet or a saucepan to make the cheese sauce, keeping the heat medium-low to prevent the cream from scalding and the cheese from seizing. The final assembly should be swift: transfer the hot fries directly to your serving platter, layer on the steak, and pour the cheese sauce over everything while it’s still fluid.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish immediately on a large platter for sharing. For a restaurant-style presentation, use a metal tray or cast-iron skillet to retain heat. Accompany with small bowls of optional toppings like diced red onion, jalapeños, sour cream, or a drizzle of barbecue sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp, light beer or a tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing.
How-to Summary
In brief: Bake seasoned fries until crispy. Sauté sliced steak with garlic and paprika. Create a smooth cheese sauce by melting cheddar and mozzarella into warm cream and butter. Assemble by layering hot fries, steak, and cheese sauce, then garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, skirt, flank, or sirloin steaks work well. Ensure they are thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.
How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?
Use freshly shredded cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces grainy. Also, keep the heat low and stir constantly.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can slice the steak and season it ahead, but cook it fresh. The cheese sauce is best made fresh, as it can thicken or separate when reheated.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, which will make the fries soggy.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, or use a plant-based meat alternative.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Spread fries in a single layer to ensure they crisp up instead of steaming.
- Overcooking the Steak: Since it’s sliced thin, it cooks quickly. Overcooking will make it tough and chewy.
- Using High Heat for Cheese Sauce: High heat can cause the cheese to become oily and separate. Melt gently.
- Assembling Too Early: Assemble just before serving to prevent the fries from becoming soggy under the toppings.
Conclusion
Loaded Steak Cheese Fries are the ultimate customizable comfort food, perfect for game day, a casual dinner, or a indulgent snack. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite toppings and sauces to make it your own. This hearty, flavor-packed recipe is guaranteed to satisfy any craving and impress your guests.