Cheesy Fries Steak Recipe

Prep potatoes

Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut into 1/4–1/2-inch fries. Rinse the cut fries under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch, then pat completely dry with paper towels.

Par-cook (optional for crispiness)

Toss the dried fries in a bowl with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add fries in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook, turning occasionally, until lightly golden and tender, about 6–8 minutes. Remove to a paper-towel–lined tray. Alternatively, you can oven-roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes until just tender.

Crisp fries

If using stovetop frying: increase oil to 3/4–1 cup (enough to shallow-fry) and heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry par-cooked fries in batches until golden-brown and crisp, about 2–4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and immediately season with remaining 1/2 tsp salt. If oven method: spread par-cooked fries on a rimmed baking sheet, drizzle remaining oil, roast at 450°F (230°C) for 8–12 minutes until crisp, tossing once.

Season steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels. In a small bowl combine 1 tbs olive oil, 3 tsp salt (use proportionally less if you prefer), 1 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 2 tsp minced garlic. Rub the mixture over both sides of the steak and let rest at room temperature for 10–15 minutes (or refrigerate up to 2 hours).

Cook steak

Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron preferred) over high heat until very hot. Add the remaining 0.5 tbs olive oil and then place the steak in the pan. Sear 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (adjust time ±1–2 minutes for thickness and desired doneness). During the last minute, add 1 tbs butter to the pan and spoon melted butter over the steak. Remove steak to a cutting board and let rest 5–7 minutes. Optionally squeeze 1/2 tbs lemon over the steak while resting.

Slice steak

Slice the steak thinly across the grain into bite-sized strips or thin slices suitable for scattering over fries.

Preheat oven broiler to high (or use a 450°F/230°C oven). Arrange the hot crispy fries on an oven-safe platter or baking sheet in a single even layer. Scatter the sliced steak evenly over the fries.

Mix the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the steak and fries so it melts together. Place under the broiler 1–2 inches from the element for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden. If using oven, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 4–6 minutes until cheese melts.

Remove from oven. Top with sliced green onions, pickled jalapeños if using, dollops of sour cream if desired, and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.