Description
Loaded Cheese Fries are a delicious and indulgent appetizer or snack featuring crispy baked or air-fried frozen French fries smothered in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, layered with extra shredded cheese, savory bacon bits, and topped with fresh green onions. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create a cheesy, crispy, and flavorful treat perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Fries
- 1 pound frozen French fries
Cheese Sauce & Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided (preferably from a block for best melting)
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup bacon bits
- 1 green onion, sliced
Instructions
- Cook the Fries: Bake or air fry the frozen French fries according to the package instructions until they are crispy and cooked through. Once done, remove the fries and set them aside. Adjust your oven temperature to 375°F for the next step.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and cornstarch. Add the heavy cream and warm the pan over medium heat. Stir continuously as the mixture heats until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Remove the pan from the heat once ready.
- Assemble the Loaded Fries: On a small sheet pan or shallow baking dish, spread half of the cooked fries evenly. Drizzle half of the prepared cheese sauce over the fries, then sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup bacon bits.
- Layer the Remaining Fries and Toppings: Place the remaining fries on top of the first layer and repeat by drizzling the rest of the cheese sauce, followed by the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits.
- Melt the Cheese Toppings: Place the sheet pan or baking dish in the oven preheated to 375°F and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the fries from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Notes
- Use shredded cheddar cheese from a block for the best melting and creamy cheese sauce texture. Pre-shredded cheese can result in a stretchier, less creamy sauce.
- You can bake or air fry the fries depending on your preference or appliance availability.
- Feel free to customize toppings by adding jalapeños, sour cream, or additional herbs.