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I have always been a fan of loaded french fries, and this recipe takes them to a whole new level. I love pairing succulent steak with caramelized onions for an unforgettable bite. Every forkful feels like the ultimate snack on game day.

A stainless steel pan holds a vacuum-sealed package of raw meat labeled Marble Hills Ranch, a jar of Fourth & Heart ghee with a vanilla flavor, a small container of salt and pepper, and a meat thermometer.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

I created this dish because I adore the crunch of crispy fries and the rich flavor of loaded french fries. My loaded cheese fries always remind me of the best part of game day, with every bite bursting with gooey cheese. It’s my favorite side dish that transforms any meal into a celebration.

Raw beef steak seasoned with a mixture of spices, displayed on a black metal tray with a textured wooden background. The seasoning is spread over the top surface of the steak.

Ingredients / Tools You’ll Need

I gather my essentials before starting, which include a sheet pan, a bag of frozen waffle fries, and a bag of frozen french fries that follow the package directions. I also prepare a single layer on a large baking sheet, an airtight container for leftovers, and aluminum foil. My ingredients feature 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded to perfection, along with a fresh mix of green onions for garnish.

I also pick up steak fries and waffle fries from the grocery store. I sometimes toss in crispy bacon for extra crunch, knowing that crispy bacon elevates the dish. I never forget to use a bag of frozen french fries, as they bring consistency every time.

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Instructions

A stainless steel burger press with a wooden handle is pressing a seasoned beef patty on a frying pan. The patty is sizzling, with visible juices and pepper.

Preparation

I preheat my smoker to 300°F while letting my NY strip steak sit out to absorb its seasoning. I season the steak liberally with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder before letting it rest. Meanwhile, I preheat the oven to 425°F following the package directions.

I arrange a single layer of crispy fries on my baking sheet. I season my bag of frozen french fries with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to achieve extra crispiness. I always ensure every ingredient is set out in a single layer for even cooking.

Grilled steak resting on a wire rack with a meat thermometer inserted into its side. The steak has a seared, textured surface and is placed on a metal grid over a kitchen countertop.

Cooking

I sear the steak in a hot skillet with butter on medium heat for about one minute per side. I then transfer the steak to the smoker until it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F. Once seared, I slice the steak into pieces that remind me of hearty steak fries.

A cooked steak resting on a wire rack inside a grill, with a thermometer inserted into the side. The meat is browned with a slightly charred crust, and the grill interior is visible in the background.

When my fries are about 75% done, and turning golden brown, I remove them and sprinkle a generous amount of cheddar cheese, which soon turns into melted cheese. I add a few jalapeño pieces and return the fries to the oven for an extra couple of minutes. I always love mixing in crispy fries—whether steak fries or waffle fries—to add another layer of flavor.

Sliced onions cooking in a stainless steel pan, seasoned with cracked black pepper. The onions are slightly translucent, suggesting they are being sautéed. The pan is on a stove with a reflective surface.

Sautéed onions in a stainless steel pan, glistening with oil and browned to a caramelized texture.

Serving Suggestions

I finish assembling my loaded french fries by topping the crispy french fries with sliced steak and a heap of caramelized onions. I garnish the dish with red onions and drizzle a dollop of sour cream for a tangy kick. I also add a sprinkle of green onions to enhance the freshness and serve this as the ultimate snack for game day.

Recipe Notes & Pro Tips

I always follow the package directions when working with a bag of frozen french fries. Arranging the fries in a single layer on my large baking sheet ensures they come out as crispy french fries every time. Using medium heat is key to getting that perfect sear on the steak while keeping the fries crispy.

A tray of loaded french fries / waffle fries topped with shredded cheese and chopped green peppers. The golden-brown fries are seasoned and covered with melted cheese, creating a savory and colorful dish.

For that extra indulgence, I sometimes toss in a bit of crispy bacon because crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch that pairs perfectly with gooey cheese. Loaded cheese fries are my secret comfort food, and I never skimp on cheddar cheese to maintain the melty texture. A dollop of sour cream on top brings everything together, making this loaded french fries recipe truly next level.

Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some fun twists you can try. I’ve experimented with adding extra green onions and even a few extra crispy bacon bits to my loaded french fries. Sometimes, I swap the NY strip for ground meat to create a different version of loaded french fries that still stays true to my loaded cheese fries vision. I also play with different seasonings and add a dash of red onions to balance out the flavors.

A tray of waffle fries topped with sliced steak, garnished with caramelized onions and chopped parsley. The steak is cooked to medium doneness, and the fries are golden and crispy. The background shows a wooden surface.

If you'd like to cook your fries in the air fryer, that's great too, do it according to package instructions, and cook all the way. Apply cheese when the fries are their hottest to melt the cheese. Each variation reinforces why loaded french fries are my go-to ultimate snack on game day.

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