Loaded Steak Fries Recipe

Name: Loaded Steak Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 175 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 cup light beer; 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon fresh garlic; 1 lime; 1 pound sirloin filet steaks; 1 (32 ounce) package frozen French fries; cooking spray; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup half and half; 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried dill; 1/2 cup chopped tomato; 2 tablespoons chopped red onion; 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup light beer
1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
1 lime
1 pound sirloin filet steak
1 (32 ounce) package frozen French fries
Cooking spray

Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup half and half
2 cups shredded sharp white Cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried dill

Toppings:

1/2 cup chopped tomato
2 tablespoons chopped red onion
1 jalapeno, sliced

Directions

In a resealable plastic bag, combine beer, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Squeeze the juice of the lime into the bag, add the steak, and coat it with the marinade. Squeeze out excess air and seal the bag. Marinate the steak in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
Preheat your oven to 425F (220C). Spread the frozen French fries evenly on a baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or follow the package instructions, until the fries are crisp and golden.
While the fries are baking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and continue to whisk until the mixture turns golden and forms a smooth paste.
Slowly pour in the half and half while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add the shredded sharp white Cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted, about 2 to 3 minutes more.
Stir in the garlic powder, dried oregano, and dried dill to complete the cheese sauce. Set aside.
While the fries are baking and the sauce is thickening, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
Grill the steak on the preheated grill, cooking each side for about 5 minutes or until firm, reddish-pink, and juicy in the center. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130F (54C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.
Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
To assemble the dish, place the hot, crispy French fries on a platter. Pour the cheese sauce generously over the fries. Top with the sliced steak, chopped tomato, chopped red onion, and thinly sliced jalapenos.
Serve immediately while everything is warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 1079
Total Fat: 61g (79% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 28g (139% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 201mg (67% Daily Value)
Sodium: 1509mg (66% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates: 78g (28% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 6g (23% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 8g
Protein: 54g (108% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 41mg (45% Daily Value)
Calcium: 603mg (46% Daily Value)
Iron: 5mg (29% Daily Value)
Potassium: 1921mg (41% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Loaded Steak Fries

Loaded steak fries are a modern twist on the classic comfort food of French fries topped with cheese and savory ingredients. The concept originated in American pubs and casual dining restaurants in the late 20th century, where chefs began experimenting with hearty toppings to make a simple side dish into a full meal. The addition of marinated, grilled steak elevates the dish from a snack to a satisfying entre, combining the indulgent richness of cheese sauce with the robust flavor of beef.

Regional Variations

While this dish is rooted in American cuisine, regional variations exist. In the Midwest, loaded steak fries often feature smoked cheeses and bacon, reflecting the region's love for rich, smoky flavors. On the West Coast, chefs sometimes incorporate fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, and spicy peppers to add a lighter, zesty twist. The South favors a more decadent approach, with deep-fried fries, melted cheddar, and generous portions of seasoned steak, reflecting the regions comfort food traditions.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Loaded steak fries may resemble other popular dishes like loaded nachos or cheese fries, but key differences set it apart. Unlike regular cheese fries, this dish includes marinated, grilled steak, which adds a meaty, smoky depth. Compared to poutine, a Canadian favorite of fries with gravy and cheese curds, loaded steak fries use a creamy cheese sauce and fresh toppings such as tomatoes and jalapeos. The layering of flavors and textures creates a unique balance of crispiness, creaminess, and savory richness.

Where They Are Typically Served

Loaded steak fries are commonly found in sports bars, casual American restaurants, and backyard gatherings. They are particularly popular as a shared appetizer or a hearty entre during game nights, family dinners, or social events. Many restaurants offer variations with different cheeses, sauces, and protein options, but the classic combination of fries, cheddar cheese sauce, and grilled steak remains the most beloved.

Interesting Facts

The use of steak as a topping is inspired by the trend of turning side dishes into protein-rich meals, making it more filling and satisfying.
While often paired with beer, the dish pairs equally well with soft drinks or a tangy cocktail, balancing the richness of the cheese and steak.
The dish has inspired numerous viral food trends online, with creative versions including truffle oil, smoked gouda, or even kimchi for a fusion twist.
Despite its indulgent nature, loaded steak fries can be adapted with healthier alternatives like oven-baked fries, lean steak cuts, and reduced-fat cheese sauces.
In some areas, this dish has become a staple of food festivals, where chefs compete to create the most decadent and visually appealing loaded fries.

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FAQ about Loaded Steak Fries Recipe

Yes, you can substitute sirloin with other cuts like rib-eye, flank steak, or strip steak. Just be mindful of the cooking times as different cuts may require slight adjustments.

Yes, you can skip the steak and opt for plant-based protein like grilled mushrooms or tofu. The cheese sauce and fries will still make a delicious base.

Leftover loaded steak fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Yes, the cheese sauce can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Absolutely! You can swap sharp white cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.

If you want more heat, you can add extra jalapeños on top, use a spicier pepper jack cheese, or even sprinkle some chili powder or hot sauce into the cheese sauce.

Yes, fresh potatoes can be sliced into fries, seasoned with oil, salt, and any preferred spices, then baked at 425°F until crispy, about 30 minutes.

Yes, if you don't have a grill, you can pan-sear the steak in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 5 minutes for medium-rare, or adjust for your preferred doneness.

Yes, both the steak (after marinating) and cheese sauce can be prepared ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble when ready to serve.

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free frozen fries and substitute the all-purpose flour in the cheese sauce with a gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Comments

George Evans

09/04/2023 10:00:16 PM

The cheese sauce was perfect. I will definitely be making it again.

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Loaded Steak Fries Recipe