Description
Loaded Fries with Beef and Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
1 bag frozen fries (or homemade, if preferred)
1 lb ground beef
1/2 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce (for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Sriracha (or hot sauce of your choice)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the fries:
Cook the frozen fries according to the package directions (or bake homemade fries if you prefer). Keep them crispy!
Prepare the beef:
While the fries are baking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Season the beef with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Stir to combine. Let it cook for another 2 minutes. Set aside.
Make the cheese sauce:
In a small saucepan, melt the shredded cheddar cheese over low heat. Stir in the sour cream, mayonnaise, and Sriracha sauce. Continue stirring until smooth and creamy.
Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra Sriracha if you like more heat.
Assemble the loaded fries:
Once the fries are ready, place them on a serving plate.
Top with the seasoned beef mixture, and drizzle with the creamy cheese sauce.
Garnish and serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious loaded fries!
These loaded fries are perfect as a snack or a full meal. The combination of the savory beef, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy fries is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed process for perfect loaded fries every time. First, preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your frozen fries package (typically 425°F). Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet for maximum crispiness. While they bake, start your beef. In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Once browned, drain any excess fat before adding the soy sauce and spices. For the sauce, use a double boiler or very low heat to gently melt the cheese with the sour cream and mayo, whisking constantly to prevent separation. Finally, assemble immediately: crispy fries first, then hot beef, followed by the warm cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is covered.
Serving Suggestions
These loaded fries are incredibly versatile. For a game-day spread, serve them directly on the baking sheet for easy sharing. To make it a complete meal, add a side of crisp coleslaw or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Consider offering small bowls of extra toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, green onions, or crumbled bacon for a build-your-own experience. Pair with cold beer, homemade lemonade, or an iced tea.
How-to Summary
In short: bake fries until crispy. Separately, brown ground beef with onion, garlic, soy sauce, and paprika. Create a creamy cheese sauce by melting cheddar with sour cream, mayo, and Sriracha. Assemble by layering fries, beef, and sauce, then garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make any components ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the beef mixture and store it refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat before assembling. The cheese sauce is best made fresh.
What are good substitutes for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. For a vegetarian version, use seasoned black beans or lentils.
My cheese sauce became grainy. What happened? This occurs if the heat is too high. Cheese should be melted gently over low heat. Adding the sour cream and mayo helps stabilize the sauce.
How do I keep the fries from getting soggy? Assemble and serve immediately after everything is cooked. Ensure the fries are baked until extra crispy to buy a little more time.
Can I use a different cheese for the sauce? Absolutely. Pepper Jack adds spice, while a Colby-Jack blend offers a milder flavor. For best results, use cheeses that melt well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet with fries, as this steams them instead of crisping them.
- Do not skip draining the excess fat from the cooked beef, or the dish will become greasy.
- Never melt the cheese sauce over high heat; low and slow is key for a smooth texture.
- Resist assembling the dish long before serving, as the fries will lose their crucial crisp texture.
- Do not over-season the beef before tasting, especially if using a salty soy sauce.
Conclusion
This recipe for Loaded Fries with Beef and Cheese Sauce transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible, shareable feast. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of crispy fries, savory beef, and creamy, spicy cheese sauce. It’s a customizable dish perfect for casual entertaining or a indulgent treat. With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to create a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s sure to disappear fast.