Loaded Bacon Cheese Fries

These loaded bacon cheese fries transform ordinary frozen fries into an indulgent treat that rivals any restaurant appetizer. I've perfected this recipe over countless game days and movie nights, always to rave reviews from friends and family.

I originally created this recipe when hosting an impromptu football watch party. What started as a way to stretch our snack options has become the most requested dish whenever friends come over.

Ingredients

• Frozen French fries: the foundation of the dish, choose a thicker cut style for better structure under toppings
• Shredded cheddar cheese: use freshly shredded for better melting quality
• Cooked crumbled bacon: adds smoky saltiness and crispy texture
• Sliced green onions: provides fresh flavor and color contrast
• Sour cream: creates a creamy cooling element to balance the richness
• Garlic powder: enhances savory flavor without overwhelming
• Salt and pepper: essential seasoning to bring all flavors together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Bake or air fry the frozen French fries according to package instructions until they reach golden brown perfection and maximum crispiness. This usually takes 20 to 25 minutes in a conventional oven at 425°F or about 15 minutes in an air fryer at 380°F. For extra crispy results, give the fries a light spritz of cooking oil before cooking.

Cook the Bacon:

While the fries are cooking, prepare the bacon. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy throughout, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces once cooled slightly. You want various sized pieces for texture interest.

Assemble the Base Layer:

Once fries are done, arrange them in an even layer on an oven-safe serving dish or baking sheet. Make sure they overlap slightly but not too much, as you want the toppings to reach most of the fries. Immediately season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper while still hot.

Add the Toppings:

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the hot fries, ensuring good coverage. Follow with the crumbled bacon, distributing it well across the entire dish. The residual heat from the fries will start melting the cheese.

Melt the Cheese:

Place the loaded fries under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. You want the cheese completely melted, bubbly, and just beginning to get golden spots in places. This quick broiling step takes the dish from good to extraordinary.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from the oven and immediately scatter the sliced green onions over the top. The heat will slightly wilt them, releasing more flavor. Serve right away with sour cream, either dolloped on top or in a small bowl on the side for dipping.

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The bacon truly makes this dish special. I discovered that cooking the bacon until just past crisp, but not burnt, creates the perfect texture to complement the soft melted cheese and crispy fries. My husband now refers to these as the ultimate comfort food and requests them whenever he's had a particularly long day at work.

Storage and Reheating

These loaded fries are definitely best enjoyed fresh from the oven when the cheese is perfectly melted and the fries are at their crispiest. However, if you end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for about 7 to 10 minutes until heated through and crisp again. Avoid the microwave as it will make the fries soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick. Turkey bacon works well as a lighter alternative to traditional bacon. For a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based bacon. You can also add diced jalapeños for heat or diced tomatoes for freshness.

Taking It To The Next Level

While this basic version is delicious, there are several ways to elevate these loaded fries. Try drizzling with ranch dressing or buffalo sauce for added flavor. Create a Mexican-inspired version with taco-seasoned meat, pico de gallo, and guacamole. For an elevated experience, top with pulled pork or brisket and barbecue sauce. You can even serve with different dipping sauces like chipotle mayo, sriracha ketchup, or honey mustard.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make fries crispy?

Bake or air fry them at a high temperature, and ensure they're spread in a single layer for even cooking.

→ Can I use freshly made fries?

Yes, you can. Simply cut potatoes into your preferred fry shape, fry or bake them, and then proceed with the toppings.

→ What cheese works best for this dish?

Shredded cheddar cheese is ideal, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Colby, or your favorite melting cheese.

→ What can I use instead of sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt, ranch dressing, or even a dollop of cream cheese.

→ Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely! Try adding jalapeños, diced tomatoes, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce for extra flavor.