Description
Loaded Bacon Cheese Fries
Ingredients:
4 large potatoes, cut into fries
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/2 cup ground beef, cooked (optional)
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions:
Prepare the Fries
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
Add the Toppings
Place fries in an oven-safe dish.
Top with cheddar cheese, bacon, and ground beef.
Melt and Serve
Return to the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
Sprinkle with fresh chives and enjoy!
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#LoadedFries #CheesyBaconGoodness #ComfortEats
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed process for perfect loaded fries every time. Start by thoroughly washing and drying your potatoes. Cut them into uniform 1/4-inch sticks to ensure even cooking. Soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. This step is crucial for maximum crispiness. Toss the dried fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the baking sheet itself to minimize cleanup. Arrange them in a single layer with space between each fry. Bake on the middle rack, flipping halfway through. For the toppings, use freshly shredded cheddar from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Assemble the hot fries in a cast-iron skillet or ceramic dish for the best oven-to-table presentation.
Serving Suggestions
These loaded fries are a versatile dish. Serve them straight from the skillet for a fun, communal appetizer at game night. For a complete meal, pair them with a crisp, cool side like a simple green salad or tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. Offer small bowls of extra toppings on the side for customization, such as sour cream, pickled jalapeños, diced red onion, or a drizzle of ranch dressing. They also make an excellent side dish for grilled burgers, steak, or barbecue chicken.
How-to Summary
Cut and soak potatoes, then dry thoroughly. Toss with oil and seasonings, then bake at 400°F for 25-30 mins until crispy. Transfer hot fries to an oven-safe dish. Top with shredded cheese, bacon, and optional cooked ground beef. Broil for 3-5 minutes until cheese is bubbly. Garnish with fresh chives and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these fries ahead of time? You can prep the components ahead. Cook the fries, bacon, and beef, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the fries in the oven to re-crisp before adding toppings and melting the cheese.
What are the best potatoes to use? Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which yields a fluffy interior and crispy exterior. Yukon Golds are a good second choice for a creamier texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Simply omit the bacon and ground beef. Consider adding savory vegetarian toppings like black beans, corn, sautéed mushrooms, or a meatless crumble instead.
My cheese isn’t melting smoothly. What went wrong? This is often due to pre-shredded cheese. Always shred your own cheese from a block for the creamiest melt. Also, ensure your oven is fully preheated and you’re using a broiler-safe dish.
Can I cook the fries in an air fryer? Absolutely. Cook the fries in your air fryer according to its manual (typically 380°F for 15-20 mins, shaking halfway). Then assemble and place the dish back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the soak: Not soaking the cut fries leads to gummy, less crispy results.
- Crowding the pan: Overlapping fries steam instead of bake, becoming soggy.
- Using cold toppings: Adding cold cheese and meat to hot fries lowers the temperature and hinders proper melting.
- Overloading with toppings: Too many toppings can make the fries underneath soggy. Layer moderately.
- Using the wrong dish: A thin baking sheet for the final melt can lead to spills. Always use a dish with sides.
Conclusion
These Loaded Bacon Cheese Fries are the ultimate customizable comfort food, perfect for sharing. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The key lies in the preparation of a perfectly crispy fry base and using quality, freshly shredded cheese. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite toppings to make this recipe your own. Whether for a party appetizer or a indulgent dinner side, this crowd-pleasing recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation.