Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Get Those Fries Ready. Preheat your oven according to the package directions on your bag of quick cook waffle fries. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake until they're golden brown and crispy. Once done, keep them warm.
- Step 2: Heat the Pan and Sear the Steak. While fries bake, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced steak, season with garlic salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes, breaking up pieces, until browned and cooked through. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Sauté the Veggies. In the same skillet, add sliced green bell pepper and onion. Turn heat down to medium. Cook, stirring, for about 7-10 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Step 4: Combine Steak and Veggies. Return cooked steak to the skillet with the softened peppers and onions. Stir to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Step 5: Build Your Loaded Fries. Spread warm, crispy fries out onto an oven-safe dish or individual plates. Spoon the steak and vegetable mixture evenly over the fries.
- Step 6: Add the Cheesy Goodness. Lay slices of White American cheese all over the steak and veggie mixture (2-3 slices per serving for individual portions).
- Step 7: Melt That Cheese! For maximum melty perfection, pop the oven-safe dish under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes, watching carefully. Alternatively, if everything is piping hot, the residual heat may melt the cheese if left to sit for a minute or two.
- Step 8: Serve Immediately. Enjoy right away while hot and crispy.
Notes
Substitutions & Additions: Provolone is a classic cheese alternative. You can also use Monterey Jack and Mozzarella or a cheese sauce. Add sautéed mushrooms, swap bell pepper colors, or add chopped jalapeños. Tater tots, curly fries, or straight-cut fries can replace waffle fries (adjust cooking times). Drizzle with sriracha or add pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.
Tips for Success: Thinly slice your steak (partially freezing helps). Don't crowd the pan when cooking steak. Ensure fries are truly crispy before loading. Watch the broiler closely. You can slice peppers and onions ahead, but the steak and final assembly are best done right before serving.
Storage: Loaded fries are best eaten immediately. Store leftover steak and veggie mixture separately in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat the mixture gently and serve over freshly cooked fries.