Description
Loaded Fries with Ground Beef, Cheese & Creamy Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Fries:
4 large russet potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Ground Beef:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Prepare the Fries:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes into fries and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to make a roux. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and cook until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Loaded Fries:
Place the baked fries on a plate. Top with the cooked ground beef, cheese sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
These loaded fries are the perfect combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy fries, great for a hearty snack or meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect loaded fries every time. First, scrub and dry your russet potatoes thoroughly before cutting into even 1/4-inch sticks for uniform cooking. While the fries bake, start browning your ground beef in the skillet. As it cooks, prepare your cheese sauce ingredients (shredded cheese, milk, butter, flour) for easy access. The key is timing: aim to have the beef and sauce ready just as the fries finish crisping. For assembly, use a warm platter to keep the fries hot. Layer the fries, then the beef, and finally, drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the top to ensure every bite is coated.
Serving Suggestions
These loaded fries are incredibly versatile. For a full game-day spread, serve them alongside chicken wings and celery sticks. To turn them into a complete meal, add a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For extra toppings, consider diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. They are best served immediately on individual plates or straight from a large, shared baking sheet for a fun, casual presentation.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cut and bake seasoned potato fries until crispy. Simultaneously, brown ground beef with a blend of savory spices. In a separate saucepan, create a simple cheese sauce by making a roux with butter and flour, then whisking in milk and cheddar cheese. Assemble by layering the hot fries, spiced beef, and creamy cheese sauce, finishing with a garnish of fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make any components ahead of time? Yes, you can pre-cook the ground beef and store it refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before assembling. The cheese sauce is best made fresh, as it can thicken too much when cooled.
How can I make this recipe crispier? For the crispiest fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before drying and baking. This removes excess starch. Also, ensure they are in a single, uncrowded layer on the baking sheet.
What are good cheese substitutes for the sauce? Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend cheese work wonderfully. For a smoother sauce, use freshly grated cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Can I use an air fryer for the fries? Absolutely. Toss the cut potatoes with oil and cook in a preheated air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store components separately in airtight containers. Reheat fries in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness. Reheat beef and sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the sauce if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: This steams the fries, making them soggy. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese for Sauce: It often doesn’t melt as smoothly. Block cheese is superior for a creamy sauce.
- Skipping the Roux: Adding cheese directly to milk without a roux can cause the sauce to separate and become oily.
- Not Draining the Beef: Excess fat from the beef will make the entire dish greasy. Always drain it after browning.
- Assembling Too Early: Assemble just before serving to maintain the fries’ crucial crispy texture.
Conclusion
These Loaded Fries with Ground Beef are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a indulgent meal. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can easily create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Don’t forget to experiment with the serving suggestions and toppings to make it your own. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for its perfect combination of crispy fries, savory beef, and irresistibly creamy cheese sauce.