Name: McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries:
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Frozen French Fries – quantity as per package instructions (about 4 cups); 1/2 lb sliced ribeye or sirloin steak, thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive oil); 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Optional smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup milk (whole or 2%); 1 cup shredded cheddar or American cheese blend

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If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with ooey-gooey cheese and savory, mouthwatering flavors, then you need to try making McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries at home. This iconic fast-food favorite blends crispy fries with tender Philly-style steak, grilled peppers and onions, and a generous drizzle of rich cheese sauce that will leave you reaching for seconds. Perfect for game day, late-night cravings, or just because, these loaded fries bring the best of McDonald’s right into your kitchen with ease and unbeatable flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unbeatable Flavor: The combination of seasoned steak, grilled veggies, and creamy cheese sauce delivers a satisfying, crave-worthy taste.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and clear steps make this recipe approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
Customizable: You can easily adjust spices, cheese types, or add toppings to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Party-Perfect: This recipe makes a great appetizer or snack to share with friends and family at gatherings.
Comfort Food Classic: It combines the nostalgic flavors of Philly cheesesteak with beloved loaded fries for a comforting treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. From hearty steak to crisp fries and creamy sauces, these simple components come together to replicate the fast-food favorite with ease.

Frozen French Fries: Use crispy, golden fries for the perfect crunchy base that holds all the toppings well.
Sliced Ribeye or Sirloin Steak: Tender, thinly sliced steak adds authentic Philly cheesesteak flavor and juiciness.
Green Bell Peppers: Fresh, sliced peppers bring a subtle sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
Onions: Sautéed onions provide a caramelized, savory depth that complements the steak beautifully.
Cheese Sauce: A rich, creamy cheese sauce made from cheddar or American cheese is essential for that oozing, melty texture.
Butter and Oil: For sautéing the veggies and steak to perfection without losing moisture.
Garlic and Seasonings: A blend of garlic, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika enhances the savory profile.

Variations for McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries:

Feel free to make this recipe your own! The beauty of McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries is how easy it is to tweak according to your tastes, dietary choices, or the ingredients you have on hand.

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the steak with sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or grilled tofu for a hearty plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who like some heat.
Cheese Options: Experiment with pepper jack, mozzarella, or even blue cheese sauce for different flavor twists.
Healthier Options: Use baked sweet potato fries and lean chicken breast strips instead of traditional fries and steak.
Extra Toppings: Include diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, or crispy bacon bits to elevate the texture and taste.

McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Copycat Recipe

How to Make McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries:

Step 1: Prepare the Fries

Start by baking or frying your frozen French fries according to package instructions until they are golden and crispy. If you want extra crunch, spread them on a baking sheet and bake a few minutes longer in a hot oven (425°F/220°C).

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the fries cook, heat a tablespoon of butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and green bell peppers, cooking until softened and lightly caramelized—about 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Push the veggies aside and add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet. Season with garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook the steak for 3 to 5 minutes until browned and tender, mixing it with the veggies for a perfect combo.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and shredded cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Keep warm over low heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Loaded Fries

Place the cooked fries on a serving platter or in individual bowls. Spoon the steak and veggie mixture generously over the fries, then drizzle with the warm cheese sauce. Serve immediately for best flavor and gooey texture.

Pro Tips for Making McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly sliced steak and crisp veggies make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook steak in batches if necessary to get a nice sear and avoid steaming.
Keep Cheese Sauce Warm: To maintain the perfect pourable consistency, keep your cheese sauce over low heat or in a warm spot before serving.
Try Double Frying Fries: For extra crispiness, fry or bake your fries twice, once at a lower temperature and then at a higher temperature.
Season Generously: Season both the steak and fries well for balanced taste throughout each bite.

How to Serve McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries:

Garnishes

Top your loaded fries with fresh chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or even pickled jalapeños to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs well with light sides like a crisp garden salad, coleslaw, or steamed broccoli to balance the indulgence with some refreshing greens.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the fries in a large cast-iron skillet for a rustic look or use high-sided paper trays for a fun, casual eating experience reminiscent of fast-food dining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftover fries and topping separately in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 days to keep the textures intact.

Freezing

While freezing assembled loaded fries isn’t recommended due to texture changes, you can freeze cooked steak and veggies separately for up to 1 month and reheat them fresh with warm fries later.

Reheating

Reheat fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back crispiness, and warm the steak mixture and cheese sauce separately on the stovetop before reassembling.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap out the steak for mushrooms, grilled veggies, or plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian version that still captures the essence of the original.

What type of cheese is best for the sauce?

A blend of cheddar and American cheese works wonderfully for melting quality and creamy texture, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

How can I make the fries extra crispy?

Double fry your fries or bake them a little longer at a high temperature to achieve a crunchier texture that holds up well under the toppings.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components like the steak and veggies in advance and reheat them with fresh fries for quick assembly later.

Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?

Definitely! Freshly made fries will add an extra level of deliciousness and customization since you control the cut and seasoning.

Final Thoughts

McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries bring together the best elements of classic Philly cheesesteak and indulgent loaded fries into one spectacular dish. Whether you’re satisfying a snack craving or impressing guests with this crowd-pleaser, it’s a recipe that’s simple to make and impossible not to love. Give it a try and enjoy this irresistible, cheesy masterpiece right at home!