Savory Cheesesteak Taco Fries

These loaded Cheesesteak Taco Fries transform simple frozen waffle fries into an irresistible fusion dish that combines the best of Philly cheesesteaks and loaded tacos. This crowd-pleasing creation has become my go-to solution for game days and casual gatherings where everyone wants something indulgent yet easy to share.

I first made these loaded fries during a football playoff weekend when I needed something substantial but didn't want to miss any game time. The empty platter and requests for the recipe convinced me this mashup deserved a permanent spot in my entertaining rotation.

Essentials Ingredients

• Frozen waffle fries: The deep ridges trap more toppings than regular fries; choose a quality brand for best results
• Ground beef: Use 80/20 for best flavor without excessive grease
• Onion: Adds sweetness and texture when cooked with the beef
• Taco seasoning packet: Provides perfectly balanced spice blend without measuring individual spices
• Shredded cheddar jack cheese: The combination gives both creamy melt and sharp flavor
• Green onions: Adds fresh bite and color contrast; choose firm ones with bright green tops
• Diced tomato: Brings acidity that cuts through the richness; look for ripe but firm tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fries:

Heat your oven to 450 degrees to ensure the fries get properly crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Arrange the frozen waffle fries in a single layer with small spaces between them for optimal air circulation. Bake for 20-25 minutes until they develop a golden brown exterior with a satisfying crunch.

Cook the Meat Mixture:

While the fries bake, prepare your protein base. Add ground beef and chopped onion to a skillet over medium high heat. Break the meat into small crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking for about 7 minutes until the beef shows no pink and the onions become translucent. Carefully drain the excess fat to prevent soggy fries later.

Season the Meat:

Reduce heat to low to avoid burning the spices. Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the meat mixture and stir thoroughly to coat every piece. Add a splash of water if the mixture seems dry. Allow the seasoned meat to simmer for 2-3 minutes letting the flavors meld completely.

Assemble and Melt:

Remove the crispy fries from the oven and pile the seasoned meat mixture evenly across the top. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over everything ensuring good coverage. Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts completely and begins to bubble around the edges.

Add Fresh Toppings:

Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the chopped green onions and diced tomatoes over the top. The residual heat will slightly warm them while maintaining their fresh texture and bright flavor.

The waffle fries are truly the unsung heroes of this dish. I discovered their superiority by accident when I grabbed the wrong bag at the grocery store. Their deep pockets catch little bits of seasoned meat and melted cheese in a way that regular fries simply cannot match. My teenage son now refuses to eat this dish with any other type of fry.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the taco meat mixture up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This significantly reduces day of preparation time and actually allows the flavors to develop more deeply. Simply reheat the meat mixture in a skillet or microwave before assembling the final dish with freshly baked fries.

Customization Ideas

This recipe welcomes creative variations based on your preferences and what you have available. Replace the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarians can substitute black beans sautéed with the same seasonings. The topping possibilities are endless: jalapeños for heat, guacamole for creaminess, black olives for saltiness, or corn for sweetness. Each variation creates an entirely new experience while maintaining the satisfying base concept.

Serving Suggestions

These loaded fries work well as a standalone meal but truly shine as part of a casual spread. Pair them with a crisp garden salad to balance the richness, or offer them alongside other finger foods for a grazing table. For an interactive meal experience, set up a fry bar with the base fries and meat, then let guests add their preferred toppings from individual bowls.

Party Portioning

When serving these at gatherings, consider preparing them on multiple quarter sheet pans rather than one large tray. This allows you to stagger the baking times, ensuring fresh hot batches throughout your event. Additionally, the smaller portions help maintain the fries' crispiness as they're likely to be consumed quickly before becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your preferences.

→ How do I make the fries extra crispy?

Make sure to spread the fries evenly on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding them. You can also flip them halfway through baking for more even crisping.

→ Are there other topping options?

Absolutely! Try adding sour cream, guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can pre-cook the beef mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat and assemble just before serving for the best results.