Loaded Cheese Fries
These Loaded Cheese Fries are oven-baked until golden and crispy, then topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions for a classic comfort-food appetizer.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, washed and sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup green onions
- ranch dressing, to drizzle or dip
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fries from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Add the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions after baking. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping or drizzle it on top.
Nutrition
Notes
- Cut fries evenly: Slice the potatoes into uniform strips to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up properly.
- Soak for extra crispiness: For crispier fries, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then dry thoroughly before baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread fries in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow air circulation and even browning. Use two sheets if needed.
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Shredding cheese from a block helps it melt more smoothly compared to pre-shredded varieties with anti-caking agents.
- Customize your toppings: Add ground beef or turkey for a heartier version, or top with extras like jalapeños, sour cream, or diced tomatoes.
- Serve immediately: These fries are best served fresh out of the oven while the cheese is hot and gooey.
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