Ultimate Cheesy Loaded Fries

Who doesn’t love a plate of crispy fries topped with all the cheesy, savory goodness you can imagine? These Ultimate Cheesy Loaded Fries are the epitome of comfort food – crispy fries smothered in melty cheese, crispy bacon, fresh green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. It’s a perfect snack, appetizer, or side dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Trust me, once you dive into these, you won’t want to stop!

Why You’ll Love Ultimate Cheesy Loaded Fries

• Crispy Perfection: These fries are perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—just how fries should be!
• Cheese Overload: Who could resist a gooey, cheesy mess? A generous amount of melted cheese makes each bite extra satisfying.
• Customizable: Want to add some heat? Toss on some jalapeños! Or maybe more toppings? The possibilities are endless.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family night, a game day, or just a cozy snack, this dish is ideal for sharing (or not – no judgment if you want it all to yourself!).

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for these cheesy fries:

Frozen Fries: You can use any frozen fries, but crinkle-cut or straight fries work best for holding all those toppings.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The gooey, melty star of the show. Feel free to use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor!
Cooked Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds the perfect crunch and savory flavor to the dish.
Green Onions: For a fresh, zesty touch that balances out all the rich flavors.
Ranch Dressing: Drizzle on top for that creamy finish that pulls it all together.
Salt and Pepper: Season the fries to perfection.
Olive Oil: To coat the fries before baking and make them extra crispy.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into making these cheesy fries:

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F to ensure your fries bake up nice and crispy.
Prepare the Fries: Spread the frozen fries out on a baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Toss them around to coat them evenly. Bake according to the package directions, usually about 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Prepare the Toppings: While the fries bake, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Chop the green onions for garnish.
Cheese it Up: When the fries are out of the oven, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the hot fries. Return them to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Top It Off: Remove the fries from the oven and top with the crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
Serve and Enjoy: Grab a fork, dive in, and enjoy your ultimate cheesy loaded fries!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Ultimate Cheesy Loaded Fries

These fries are perfect on their own or served with a side of:

• Hamburgers or Hot Dogs: They make a perfect side dish for grilling season.
• Dipping Sauces: Try ranch, ketchup, barbecue sauce, or spicy mayo for dipping.
• Salads: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter, balanced meal.
• Beer: They’re an ideal pairing with a cold beer for a fun, casual meal.

Additional Tips

• Add More Toppings: Don’t stop at bacon and cheese! Add jalapeños, sour cream, or even chili for a loaded chili cheese fry version.
• Make it Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or drizzle spicy sriracha on top for some heat.
• For Extra Crispy Fries: Double-bake the fries by baking them once, then flipping them and baking again for a few minutes. This extra step ensures they’re super crispy.
• Storage: Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore the crispiness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make these fries with fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
A1: Absolutely! Cut fresh potatoes into fries, coat them with olive oil, and bake until crispy.

Q2: Can I make this recipe in the air fryer?
A2: Yes! Cook the fries in the air fryer at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through. Then, top with cheese and air fry for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.

Q3: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A3: Definitely! Try mozzarella for a more stringy, melty texture, or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra flavor.

Q4: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A4: Simply make sure to use gluten-free fries or make your own fries from fresh potatoes.

Q5: Can I make the fries spicier?
A5: Yes! Add some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle chili flakes on top for a spicy kick.

Q6: How can I make these fries more filling?
A6: Add a protein topping like grilled chicken, ground beef, or pulled pork for a heartier meal.

Q7: Can I make these ahead of time?
A7: For the best results, bake the fries fresh. However, you can prep everything in advance and bake the fries when ready to serve.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

Q9: Can I make these fries without ranch dressing?
A9: Of course! You can substitute with sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Q10: Can I freeze these loaded fries?
A10: While the fries themselves can be frozen, it’s best to assemble them fresh. You can freeze cooked fries and toppings separately, then reheat when ready.

Conclusion

These Ultimate Cheesy Loaded Fries are the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re treating yourself to a snack, serving them at a party, or just want a comforting side dish, these fries will satisfy every craving. With the crispy fries, melty cheese, savory bacon, and zesty ranch drizzle, it’s a flavor combination that can’t be beaten. Go ahead and dig in—you won’t regret it!

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