Philly Steak Cheese Fries (Air Fryer Style)
Intro:
Philly Steak Cheese Fries combine the best of two comfort food favorites: cheesy loaded fries and Philly cheesesteak! This air fryer version delivers crisp golden fries, juicy steak strips, caramelized onions and peppers, and gooey melted cheese — all in one mouthwatering bite. It’s perfect as a game-day snack, indulgent dinner, or party appetizer. Made quick and easy in the air fryer with no deep frying required!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients:
For the Steak & Toppings:
250g (½ lb) thinly sliced beef steak (ribeye or sirloin works great)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, thinly sliced
½ green bell pepper, sliced
½ red bell pepper, sliced
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Fries:
3 cups frozen French fries or homemade hand-cut fries
½ tsp paprika or Cajun seasoning (optional)
Oil spray
For the Cheese Sauce:
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
¾ cup milk
1 cup shredded provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar cheese
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Air Fry the Fries
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Add frozen fries to the basket in a single layer.
Spray lightly with oil and sprinkle with paprika if using.
Air fry for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Set aside once done.
Cook the Steak & Veggies
While fries cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (or use air fryer-safe tray if yours allows).
Add sliced onions and bell peppers; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Add thinly sliced steak, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 3–5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Set aside.
Air Fryer Option: You can cook the steak strips and veggies in the air fryer at 380°F (195°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking once halfway through.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in flour and whisk for 30 seconds to make a roux.
Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
Once slightly thickened, stir in shredded cheese until smooth and melty.
Add salt to taste and remove from heat.
Assemble
Place cooked fries on a heat-safe tray or platter.
Top evenly with the steak and veggie mixture.
Drizzle the hot cheese sauce generously over everything.
Optional: Add more shredded cheese and return to air fryer for 1–2 minutes to melt.
Optional Toppings:
Sliced jalapeños
Hot sauce or sriracha
Crumbled bacon
Fresh parsley or scallions
Pro Tips:
Thin steak slices cook faster and are easier to layer.
Freeze steak slightly before slicing for thin, clean cuts.
For extra cheesy fries, sprinkle additional cheese before drizzling sauce.
Use store-bought nacho cheese sauce for a shortcut!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with cold soda or beer.
Perfect for movie nights, game day, or dinner with a side salad.
Nutrition (per serving – approx. ¼ recipe):
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbs: 28g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg