Loaded Cheese and Gravy Fries

Description

Loaded Cheese and Gravy Fries

Ingredients:

500g French fries

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional)

1 cup beef gravy

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions:

Prepare the Fries

Bake or fry the French fries according to package instructions until golden and crispy.

Place the cooked fries on a serving plate.

Add the Toppings

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot fries.

Add the cooked ground beef or sausage on top, if using.

Pour the Gravy

Heat the beef gravy until warm and pour it generously over the cheese and fries.

Garnish

Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serve Immediately

Enjoy this indulgent and savory snack while it’s hot and melty!

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#LoadedFries #ComfortFood #CheeseLovers

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow this detailed guide for perfect Loaded Cheese and Gravy Fries every time.

1. Cook the Base: Preheat your oven or fryer as per the package directions for your 500g of French fries. For maximum crispiness, spread fries in a single layer and cook until deeply golden.
2. Prepare Toppings Concurrently: While fries cook, shred 1 cup of cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded, and warm 1 cup of beef gravy in a small saucepan over low heat. If using, cook 1/2 cup of ground beef or sausage until browned and crumbled.
3. Assemble Immediately: As soon as the fries are done, transfer them to a heat-proof serving platter or skillet. Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the hot fries so it begins to melt.
4. Layer the Protein: Scatter the warm cooked meat (if using) over the cheesy fries.
5. The Final Pour: Give the warm gravy a final stir and pour it generously and evenly over the entire dish, ensuring coverage to the edges.
6. Final Touch: Garnish with 1 tbsp of freshly chopped parsley and serve instantly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish as a shareable appetizer, a game-day centerpiece, or a hearty late-night snack. For a full pub-style experience, pair with crisp, cold beer or a tangy house-made ranch dressing for dipping. To cut through the richness, offer a side of pickled jalapeños or a simple garden salad.

How-to Summary

Cook fries until crispy, top immediately with shredded cheddar and optional cooked meat, smother with warm beef gravy, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot for the best melty, savory experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these fries in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry your French fries according to your appliance’s guidelines for a crisp result, then assemble as directed. The method for toppings remains the same.

2. What are the best cheese substitutes?
For a different flavor, try Monterey Jack, pepper Jack for spice, or a cheese sauce for ultimate meltiness. A blend of cheeses works wonderfully.

3. How can I keep the fries from getting soggy?
The key is speed and heat. Have all toppings hot and ready before the fries finish cooking. Assemble and serve immediately. Using a pre-warmed plate or cast-iron skillet also helps.

4. Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can cook the meat and prepare the gravy ahead of time and reheat them gently. However, cook the fries fresh and assemble just before serving for ideal texture.

5. Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
Yes. Use a rich mushroom or onion gravy instead of beef gravy, and omit the meat or replace it with vegetarian crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Cold Toppings: Adding cold cheese or room-temperature gravy will cool the fries down instantly and prevent proper melting. Ensure all toppings are warm.
• Overcrowding During Cooking: Crowding fries in the oven or fryer leads to steaming instead of crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Letting Fries Sit After Cooking: Even a few minutes on a cold plate will make fries lose their crucial crisp texture before assembly.
• Skimping on Gravy: The gravy is a key component for moisture and flavor. Ensure you have enough to cover the dish generously.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheese and Gravy Fries are the ultimate customizable comfort food, combining crispy fries, melted cheese, savory gravy, and your choice of protein. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality, indulgent dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any casual gathering. Remember, the secret lies in the speed of assembly—serve it hot and enjoy the delicious, melty results.