Loaded Bacon Cheese

Loaded Bacon Cheese Fries are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy golden fries, melted cheese, smoky bacon, and a drizzle of savory toppings. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or as a decadent appetizer, this dish is irresistibly indulgent. The balance of crispy textures and gooey, cheesy goodness is elevated by a sprinkle of green onions and your favorite sauces. Follow this easy recipe to create a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to disappear fast!

Ingredients:

For the Fries

• 1 kg (2 lbs) russet potatoes (or store-bought frozen fries)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Toppings

• 200g (2 cups) shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
• 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 3 tbsp sour cream (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions or chives
• Hot sauce or ranch dressing (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. For Homemade Fries: Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into thin strips for fries. Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry with a kitchen towel.
2. For Frozen Fries: Skip to Step 3.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Fries

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) or an air fryer according to manufacturer instructions.
2. In a large bowl, toss the potato strips with vegetable oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry for 15-20 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

1. While the fries are cooking, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
2. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Loaded Fries

1. Once the fries are done, transfer them to an oven-safe dish or leave them on the baking sheet.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the fries. Top with crumbled bacon.
3. Return the dish to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 5: Add Final Toppings

1. Remove the fries from the oven and drizzle sour cream over the top (if desired).
2. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives. Add optional hot sauce or ranch dressing for extra flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately while the fries are warm and the cheese is gooey. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces or enjoy as is!

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen fries instead of making them from scratch?
Absolutely! Frozen fries are a convenient option and work perfectly in this recipe. Follow the package instructions for cooking, then proceed with the toppings.

2. What type of cheese works best for loaded fries?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp flavor and meltability, but you can also use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorites.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Skip the bacon and consider adding plant-based bacon crumbles, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions as a flavorful alternative.

4. How do I prevent soggy fries?
For homemade fries, ensure the potatoes are thoroughly dried after soaking. Spread them in a single layer for even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.

5. Can I make these fries in advance?
The fries are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare and cook the bacon and toppings ahead of time. Reheat the assembled fries in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.

6. What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to customize! Popular additions include jalapeños, diced tomatoes, avocado, or even chili for a loaded chili cheese fries version.

This Loaded Bacon Cheese Fries recipe is easy to make and guarantees smiles all around. Indulge in every cheesy, bacon-filled bite!

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