- Crispy and Cheesy : Golden fries topped with melty cheese and juicy beef are pure comfort in every bite.
- Customizable : Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, guacamole, or bacon for extra flair.
- Quick and Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights or last-minute cravings.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is always a hit.
Ingredients
(Serves 4–6)
For the Base:
- 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fry shapes (or 1 large bag of frozen fries)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if using fresh potatoes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
For Garnish:
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced green onions
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Guacamole or sliced avocado
- Jalapeños (optional, for heat)
- Crumbled tortilla chips or crushed nacho cheese Doritos (optional, for crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Cook the Fries
- If using fresh potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) . Toss the potato strips with olive oil , salt , and pepper , then spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes , flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- If using frozen fries: Follow the package instructions to bake them until crispy.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef , breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and ¼ cup water , mixing well to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Loaded Fries
- Transfer the baked fries to a large oven-safe skillet, baking sheet, or serving platter.
- Spread the seasoned beef evenly over the fries.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
4. Melt the Cheese
- Place the assembled fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes , or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely to avoid burning).
5. Add Toppings and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top with diced tomatoes, green onions, sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños, or any other toppings you love.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the cheesy, beefy goodness!
Tips for Success
- Use Frozen Fries for Speed : If you’re short on time, frozen fries work perfectly and save prep effort.
- Double-Cheese Layer : Add half the cheese before baking and sprinkle the rest on top during the last few minutes for extra cheesiness.
- Experiment with Toppings : Try adding crumbled bacon, black olives, pico de gallo, or ranch dressing for variety.
- Make It Vegetarian : Swap the beef for seasoned black beans or sautéed mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
These Loaded Cheese Beef Fries pair beautifully with:
- A side of nacho cheese dip or queso for dunking.
- A refreshing drink like margaritas , soda, or sparkling water.
- A simple green salad or Mexican street corn for balance.
Final Thoughts
These Loaded Cheese Beef Fries are the ultimate indulgence—crispy, cheesy, and loaded with bold flavors. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a late-night snack, or making them for dinner, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to dig into a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With endless customization options and layers of deliciousness, these fries are sure to become a go-to favorite. 🍟🥩🧀