Loaded Cheese Fries are a crowd-pleaser that combines crispy fries with layers of melted cheese, crunchy bacon, and fresh green onions. Topped with a dollop of cool sour cream, this dish is perfect for anyone looking for a hearty, comforting snack. Whether you’re hosting a party, settling in for a movie night, or just craving something savory, these cheese fries are simple to make and even easier to enjoy.
They offer a customizable base for a variety of toppings, so you can tailor them to your taste. Ready in just an hour, they're a quick solution to satisfy those savory cravings.
Why This Recipe Works
This Loaded Cheese Fries recipe is fantastic because it hits all the right notes for a comfort food classic. The combination of hot, crispy potatoes with rich, gooey cheese and savory, crispy bacon makes for a satisfying texture and flavor contrast. The addition of fresh green onions and cool sour cream cuts through the richness, adding layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to include whatever toppings you love, making it a great base for experimentation.
Moreover, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare with straightforward steps and simple ingredients that are accessible in most kitchens. It’s perfect for those who want a delicious, indulgent treat without too much fuss. The method of soaking the potatoes before frying ensures that each fry is perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, while baking the assembled fries with toppings melts the cheese beautifully and melds the flavors together. This recipe is a guaranteed hit for any occasion, bringing the comfort and taste of your favorite pub food right into your home kitchen.
Ingredients
Potatoes - The base of the dish, usually russet potatoes are used for their starchy texture which crisps up well. Substitute: Sweet potatoes for a sweeter, healthier twist.
Cheddar Cheese - Adds a creamy, sharp flavor when melted over the fries. Substitute: Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Bacon - Provides a crispy, salty bite. Substitute: Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits for a lighter option.
Green Onions - Offer a mild, oniony crunch that complements the rich cheese and bacon. Substitute: Chives for a similar but milder flavor.
Sour Cream - Serves as a cool, tangy topping that balances the dish. Substitute: Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative with a similar texture.
Tips
- Soak the potato slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes before frying to ensure they crisp up nicely.
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded to avoid additives and achieve a smoother melt.
- Bake the bacon in the oven while preparing the fries for evenly cooked, less greasy results.
- For extra flavor, season your fries with garlic powder and paprika before baking or frying.
- Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the fries while the cheese is still perfectly melted.
How to Serve
Cheese fries are best served hot and fresh, ideally straight from the oven or fryer. The heat helps the cheese melt uniformly, creating a gooey, irresistible topping that binds well with the other ingredients. They're perfect for a casual gathering, game day, or as a hearty snack during a movie night.
Three specific serving ideas:
- Classic Pub Style: Serve with a side of ranch dressing or barbecue sauce for dipping.
- Loaded Nacho Style: Top the cheese fries with jalapeños, salsa, and a dollop of guacamole to mimic nachos.
- Dessert Fries: For a twist, swap out the savory toppings for a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt for sweet and salty dessert fries.
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Loaded Cheese Fries
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes sliced into fries
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 6 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup green onions chopped
- ½ cup sour cream
- Oil for frying
- Optional: Garlic powder paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or large pot.
- Wash and slice the potatoes into fries. Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry.
- Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the fried potatoes on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and bacon crumbles.
- Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted, about 5 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and dollops of sour cream. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
• Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded to avoid additives and achieve a smoother melt.
• Bake the bacon in the oven while preparing the fries for evenly cooked, less greasy results.
• For extra flavor, season your fries with garlic powder and paprika before baking or frying.
• Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the fries while the cheese is still perfectly melted.