Cheese Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheese Fries are incredibly easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit. With crisp fries and smooth, rich cheese, they satisfy both texture and flavor cravings. Whether you prefer them simple or loaded with toppings, this dish comes together quickly and tastes amazing every time.

Ingredients

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

• Russet potatoes or frozen French fries
• Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
• Salt
• Shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend
• Optional: cheese sauce
• Optional toppings: green onions, bacon bits, jalapeños, sour cream

Directions

1. Prepare the fries:
   • If using fresh potatoes: Wash, peel (optional), and cut into fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, drain, and pat dry.
   • Fry twice (first at 300°F for 4–5 minutes, then at 375°F for 2–3 minutes) or bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes until golden and crispy.
   • If using frozen fries: Cook according to package instructions until crispy.
2. Add cheese:
   • While the fries are still hot, transfer them to a baking dish or oven-safe platter.
   • Sprinkle with shredded cheese evenly or pour cheese sauce over the top.
3. Melt cheese:
   • Place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts and begins to bubble, or microwave briefly if using a microwave-safe dish.
4. Garnish and serve:
   • Add desired toppings like green onions, bacon bits, or jalapeños.
   • Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus optional soaking time)
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Loaded Cheese Fries: Add cooked bacon, green onions, and sour cream for a fully loaded version.
• Spicy Cheese Fries: Mix in pepper jack cheese or top with jalapeños and hot sauce.
• Chili Cheese Fries: Add a layer of hot chili before topping with cheese.
• Garlic Cheese Fries: Toss fries with garlic powder or roasted garlic before adding cheese.
• Cheese Sauce Option: Make a homemade cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheese for smoother, creamier coverage.

Storage/Reheating

Cheese Fries are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until hot and crisp. Microwaving is possible but may result in softer fries. Add a little fresh cheese if needed to refresh the topping.

FAQs

What’s the best cheese for cheese fries?

Sharp cheddar melts well and has great flavor, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or cheese blends also work beautifully.

Can I use frozen fries?

Yes, frozen fries are a convenient option. Just bake or air fry them until crisp before adding cheese.

How do I prevent soggy fries?

Use double-fried or baked fries, and serve immediately after melting the cheese. Avoid adding too much moisture-heavy toppings.

Can I make cheese fries in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry the fries at 375°F (190°C) until crispy, then add cheese and return for 1–2 minutes just to melt.

Can I use cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese?

Absolutely. Cheese sauce creates a smooth, even coating and works well for dipping too.

What dips go well with cheese fries?

Ranch, sour cream, garlic aioli, and spicy mayo all pair nicely with the cheesy flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes. Use vegan fries, plant-based cheese, and your favorite dairy-free toppings.

How do I make homemade cheese sauce?

Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour, then add milk and stir until thick. Add shredded cheese and whisk until smooth.

Are cheese fries gluten-free?

They can be if you use gluten-free fries and cheese. If making cheese sauce, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Can I prepare cheese fries ahead of time?

You can prep the fries in advance, but add the cheese and melt just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Cheese Fries are a crave-worthy, comforting dish that combines the crispy delight of fries with the rich, melty goodness of cheese. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you keep it classic or load them up, these fries are guaranteed to please.

Cheese Fries

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Cheese Fries are crispy French fries topped with melted cheddar or cheese sauce for a rich, gooey snack or side. Perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you’re craving cheesy comfort food.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Frying or Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 large Russet potatoes or 1 bag frozen French fries
• Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
• Salt, to taste
• 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend
• Optional: 1 cup cheese sauce
• Optional toppings: 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, 2 tablespoons cooked bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, sour cream

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Instructions

1. Wash and peel (optional) the potatoes. Cut into fries and soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
2. Fry at 300°F (150°C) for 4–5 minutes, then rest. Increase oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry again for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Alternatively, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. If using frozen fries, cook per package directions until crisp.
3. Transfer hot fries to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese or pour over cheese sauce.
4. Place under broiler for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, microwave briefly if using cheese sauce.
5. Top with optional garnishes like green onions, bacon bits, or jalapeños.
6. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Notes

• Double-frying ensures fries stay crispy under cheese.
• Shredded cheddar gives a sharp flavor, while cheese sauce offers even coverage.
• Serve immediately for best texture and taste.
• Try loaded versions with bacon, sour cream, and jalapeños.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg