If you love the irresistible combination of crispy fries, savory beef, melty cheese, and vibrant peppers, then you are in for a treat with the McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Recipe. This dish takes loaded fries to a whole new level by layering seasoned ground beef and sautéed veggies atop a bed of golden fries, all crowned with gooey cheddar cheese. It brings all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich into a shareable, crowd-pleasing snack or meal that’s perfect any time you want something hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward, yet each plays a crucial role in building flavor, adding texture, and creating the perfect presentation for the McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Recipe. From the crispy base of fries to the melty cheddar and spicy jalapeños, everything works together beautifully.
- Frozen or homemade French fries: The crispy foundation of the dish that holds all the delicious toppings.
- Ground beef: Provides a rich, savory protein that mimics Philly cheesesteak flavors.
- Diced green bell peppers: Adds crunch and a subtle sweet vegetable note.
- Diced onions: Caramelized for natural sweetness and depth.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic undertone.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a smoky element that elevates the beef.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings essential to balance and highlight all flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The melty, creamy topping that makes this dish irresistible.
- Sliced jalapeños (optional): Adds a spicy kick for those who like some heat.
- Olive oil or butter: For sautéing the veggies and adding richness.
How to Make McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fries
Start by preparing your fries until they are golden and crispy, either following package instructions for frozen fries or baking your homemade fries. This step is vital for creating that sturdy and flavorful base that holds all your tasty toppings without getting soggy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and green bell peppers and sauté them until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This deepens their natural sweetness and sets the flavor foundation for the meat mixture.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add ground beef to the sautéed veggies along with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook thoroughly, breaking the meat apart as it browns. This creates a beautifully seasoned, savory mixture that perfectly complements the fries and cheese.
Step 4: Drain Excess Fat
Once the beef is cooked through, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step prevents the final dish from being greasy, letting the natural flavors shine through in the stack.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Arrange your crispy fries in an oven-safe dish. Evenly spread the beef and pepper mixture over the fries, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake or broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and bubbles with golden spots.
Step 6: Add the Final Touches
After removing from the oven, optionally garnish with sliced jalapeños to add a fresh, spicy element that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Now, your McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Recipe is ready to dive into!
How to Serve McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like jalapeño slices, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, or even a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing can make your loaded fries pop even more. These garnishes add a touch of brightness and extra layers of flavor that invite everyone to customize each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish works wonderfully on its own but pairs well with lighter sides like a crisp green salad or some tangy coleslaw to balance the richness. You could also serve some fresh-cut veggies with a cool dip alongside for a fun contrast in textures and temperatures.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the loaded fries in individual cast iron skillets or mini casserole dishes for a charming, rustic look that keeps them warm at the table. You could also stack the layers higher for a more dramatic presentation or serve with a side of dipping sauces like spicy ketchup or chipotle mayo for extra flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (and why wouldn’t you?), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fries will soften slightly, but the flavors remain delightful. Be sure to reheat gently to keep that beef delicious and prevent the cheese from getting rubbery.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the components separately before assembling. Freeze cooked fries and beef mixture in separate airtight containers to preserve texture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and assemble before reheating to enjoy the best quality.
Reheating
To reheat, place the loaded fries on a baking tray and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and the cheese regains some meltiness. Avoid microwaving when possible to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade fries can add a fresher taste and texture, making this recipe even more special. Just be sure to bake or fry them until extra crispy to hold up under the toppings.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms seasoned the same way. You’ll still get that savory, layered flavor without meat.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Add more jalapeños or mix some hot sauce into the beef mixture to dial up the heat. You can also try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist on the classic cheddar.
What type of cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
While cheddar is classic, provolone or mozzarella also melt beautifully and complement the Philly cheese steak flavor profile. Feel free to mix cheeses for extra creaminess.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe serves about four people, making it ideal for sharing at casual get-togethers or as a hearty snack to enjoy with friends and family.
Final Thoughts
The McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Recipe is a fun and flavorful way to turn simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or a snack to wow your guests, this dish delivers with every cheesy, meaty, and crispy bite. Give it a try—it might just become one of your favorite go-to recipes!
Print
McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
McDonald’s Philly Cheese Stack Loaded Fries combine crispy French fries topped with savory sautéed ground beef, bell peppers, onions, and melted cheddar cheese for a delicious and indulgent snack or meal, finished with optional spicy jalapeños for an extra kick.
Ingredients
Fries
- 1 lb frozen French fries or homemade fries
Beef Mixture
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced green bell peppers
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese & Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
Cooking Fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Cook the Fries: Prepare the frozen or homemade fries according to package instructions or your preferred baking method until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and green bell peppers, sautéing until they soften and develop a slight caramelization.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet along with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking the beef apart, until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
- Drain Excess Fat: Remove any extra grease from the skillet to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread the cooked fries evenly in an oven-safe dish. Top them with the cooked ground beef and pepper mixture evenly distributed.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef and fries.
- Melt Cheese: Place the dish under a broiler or bake in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts completely and bubbles.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with sliced jalapeños for added heat. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, bake the fries separately until golden before assembling.
- If you prefer less spice, omit jalapeños or reduce the amount.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Use a sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.
- Ensure to drain excess fat to avoid greasiness.
