Cheese Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheese fries are quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of crunchy fries and creamy, melty cheese is irresistible. This recipe is also easy to customize with your favorite toppings, from bacon bits to jalapeños or even a drizzle of ranch. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Frozen or homemade French fries
• Shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional toppings: cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, ranch dressing

Directions

1. Cook the fries according to the package directions or your preferred method (oven, air fryer, or deep fryer) until golden and crispy.
2. While the fries are hot, spread them out on an oven-safe dish or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the fries.
4. Place the dish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Remove from the oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add any optional toppings like bacon bits, green onions, or jalapeños.
7. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 to 4 servings. Prep time is about 5 minutes, cooking time is 20–25 minutes depending on your method for the fries. Total time: approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

• Use curly fries, waffle fries, or sweet potato fries for a different twist.
• Try a nacho-style cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese.
• Add chili for a loaded chili cheese fries version.
• Use pepper jack or smoked gouda for a flavor variation.
• Make it vegetarian-friendly or vegan by using plant-based cheese and toppings.

Storage/Reheating

Cheese fries are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as the fries may become soggy.

FAQs

What kind of fries work best for cheese fries?

Straight-cut or crinkle-cut fries are great, but waffle or curly fries can hold more cheese and toppings.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but any good melting cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend works well.

Can I use cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese?

Yes, cheese sauce gives a smooth, creamy texture and is especially good for loaded versions.

How do I keep the fries crispy under the cheese?

Make sure the fries are well-cooked and crispy before adding cheese, and don’t overload with sauce or toppings.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, cook the fries in the air fryer, then top with cheese and return them briefly to melt, or broil separately.

Are cheese fries gluten-free?

They can be if you use gluten-free fries and toppings. Always check labels to be sure.

How do I make loaded cheese fries?

Add cooked bacon, jalapeños, green onions, sour cream, or ranch dressing for a loaded version.

Can I make these ahead of time?

It’s best to serve them immediately, but you can prep the toppings and cheese in advance for quick assembly.

What sauces pair well with cheese fries?

Ranch dressing, sour cream, chipotle mayo, or even buffalo sauce make great dips.

Can I add meat to the fries?

Yes, try ground beef, pulled pork, or shredded chicken for a more filling dish.

Conclusion

Cheese fries are a fast and flavorful treat that turns ordinary fries into something truly special. With crispy potatoes and a generous layer of melted cheese, they’re perfect for satisfying cravings or entertaining guests. Once you try them homemade, you’ll never look at frozen fries the same way again.

Cheese Fries

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Crispy golden fries topped with melted cheese and optional toppings like bacon, jalapeños, or ranch. A quick, indulgent snack or side dish perfect for sharing.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2–4 servings
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Broiling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen or homemade French fries
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional toppings: cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, ranch dressing

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Instructions

1. Cook fries according to package directions or preferred method until golden and crispy.
2. Spread hot fries on an oven-safe dish or parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over fries.
4. Place under broiler for 1–2 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add optional toppings like bacon, green onions, or jalapeños.
7. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Notes

• For extra indulgence, drizzle with nacho cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese.
• Use waffle or curly fries to hold more cheese and toppings.
• Serve with dips like ranch, sour cream, or chipotle mayo.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 690mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 35mg