Description
Loaded Steak Fries with Cheese
Ingredients:
500g French fries (homemade or frozen)
200g steak, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
2 tbsp diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Fries:
Bake or fry the French fries until golden and crispy.
Prepare the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Season the steak slices with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook the steak in the pan for 3-5 minutes until tender and browned.
Assemble:
Arrange the fries on a baking tray or oven-safe dish.
Top with the cooked steak and shredded cheddar cheese.
Melt the Cheese:
Place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and diced tomatoes.
Serve immediately for a cheesy, flavorful treat!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Cook the Fries: Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Spread the French fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a little oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, use the air fryer setting if available.
2. Prepare the Steak: While fries cook, pat the steak slices dry. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. In a bowl, toss steak with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add steak to the hot skillet in a single layer. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side without overcrowding. Remove when browned and tender.
3. Assemble: Switch your oven to broil/grill. Transfer the cooked fries to an oven-safe dish or skillet, creating an even base. Scatter the cooked steak slices evenly over the fries.
4. Melt the Cheese: Generously top everything with the shredded cheddar cheese. Place the dish under the broiler, watching closely, for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove from oven. Immediately garnish with fresh parsley and optional diced tomatoes. Serve directly from the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate this hearty dish with complementary sides and dips. Serve with a cool, creamy dipping sauce like garlic aioli, ranch, or sour cream. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. For a full pub-style experience, offer alongside celery sticks, carrot sticks, and extra pickled jalapeños for those who want heat. Perfect for game day, casual dinners, or as a shareable appetizer.
How-to Summary
In short, create Loaded Steak Fries by first cooking fries until crispy. Sear seasoned steak slices in a hot pan. Layer fries and steak in an oven-safe dish, top with cheddar cheese, and broil until melted. Finish with a garnish of fresh parsley and diced tomatoes before serving hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend work wonderfully. For a more decadent melt, try adding a sprinkle of mozzarella with the cheddar.
What cut of steak is best for this recipe? Use quick-cooking, tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
How can I make this recipe in an air fryer? Cook the fries in the air fryer first. Cook the steak separately on the stove. Combine them in an air fryer-safe dish, top with cheese, and air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can season and slice the steak ahead, storing it covered in the fridge. The fries are best cooked fresh, but you can pre-cook them slightly and finish them in the oven when assembling.
How do I prevent the fries from getting soggy? Ensure your fries are fully crispy before assembling. Avoid overloading the dish with wet toppings, and serve immediately after broiling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Crowding the steak while searing steams it instead of creating a flavorful brown crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can hinder melting. Shredding a block of cheese yourself results in a smoother, creamier melt.
- Walking Away from the Broiler: Cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt in seconds. Watch it closely during the final step.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Properly seasoning the steak with salt, pepper, and spices is crucial for building layers of flavor in the final dish.
Conclusion
Loaded Steak Fries are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy fries, savory steak, and gooey cheese into one irresistible dish. By following this detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Perfect for sharing or indulging solo, this versatile recipe is sure to become a favorite for any casual dining occasion.