Loaded Cheese and Bacon Fries Recipe

Description

Loaded Cheese and Bacon Fries Recipe

Ingredients:

500g French fries

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps:

1. Cook the fries:

Bake or fry the French fries until golden and crispy. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Add toppings:

Place the fries in a baking dish.

Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the fries.

Add the crumbled bacon on top.

3. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Garnish and serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect loaded fries every time.

1. Prepare the Fries: For optimal crispiness, spread your fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake according to package directions, or deep-fry at 190°C (375°F) until golden. Season immediately after cooking.
2. Assemble in an Oven-Safe Dish: Transfer the hot fries to a cast-iron skillet or ceramic baking dish. This keeps them warm and creates the perfect vessel for melting.
3. Layer the Cheeses: First, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly. Its excellent melt creates a gooey base. Then, add the shredded cheddar for a sharp flavor boost.
4. Add the Bacon: Distribute the crumbled cooked bacon over the cheese layer, ensuring every bite gets some.
5. Melt to Perfection: Place the dish in a preheated 180°C (350°F) oven. Bake for 5-7 minutes, but watch closely. The cheese should be fully melted and bubbly, but not browned.
6. Final Garnish: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your loaded fries from a snack to a meal with these ideas. Serve them directly in the skillet for a fun, shareable presentation. Offer small bowls of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, pickled red onions, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for dipping and customization. For a heartier dish, top with a fried egg or serve alongside grilled chicken or burgers.

How-to Summary

Cook fries until crispy, layer in a dish with mozzarella, cheddar, and bacon, then bake at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fries? Absolutely. Frozen fries work perfectly for this recipe. For best results, choose a thick-cut style for sturdiness.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can cook the fries and bacon ahead. Assemble the dish just before baking to prevent the fries from getting soggy.

What are good cheese substitutes? Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend are excellent alternatives. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses with anti-caking agents, as they don’t melt as smoothly.

Can I make this in an air fryer? Yes. After cooking the fries, assemble them in an air fryer-safe dish. Cook at 190°C (375°F) for 3-4 minutes, checking frequently until the cheese is melted.

How do I keep the fries from getting soggy? The key is to ensure your fries are very crispy before adding toppings. Avoid overloading with wet ingredients and serve immediately after baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Cold Toppings: Adding cold cheese and bacon to hot fries lowers the temperature, requiring longer baking and potentially leading to soggy fries.
• Overbaking: Bake only until the cheese is melted. Extended baking will cause the cheese to separate and become greasy.
• Neglecting to Preheat the Oven: A properly preheated oven is crucial for quick, even melting without overcooking the fries.
• Crowding the Fries During Initial Cooking: Whether baking or frying, ensure fries are in a single layer for maximum crispiness.

Conclusion

This loaded cheese and bacon fries recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining simple ingredients for maximum flavor. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfectly crispy, cheesy, and indulgent dish every time. Perfect for game day, a casual gathering, or a special treat, these fries are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Enjoy!