CHEESY LOADED BEEF FRIES
These Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries are a crispy, savory treat piled high with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty toppings. Perfect for parties, game nights, or whenever you crave a loaded comfort food delight!
Ingredients
For the Fries:
- 1 28-ounce bag frozen French fries
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Beef Topping:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup BBQ sauce or ketchup optional for flavor
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings (Optional):
- ¼ cup cooked bacon bits
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- Jalapeño slices
- Sour cream for drizzling
Instructions
Bake the Fries:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread French fries on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake until golden and crispy, about 20–25 minutes.
Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce if using. Stir well and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly, until thickened. Stir in cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Loaded Fries:
- Place the baked fries on a serving plate or baking dish. Spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the fries. Drizzle with warm cheese sauce.
Add Final Toppings:
- Sprinkle with bacon bits, diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, and a drizzle of sour cream. Serve immediately while hot and melty!
Notes
- Make Ahead: Cook and season the beef in advance, and prepare the cheese sauce before assembling.
- Customizing the Flavor: Try adding shredded mozzarella, ranch dressing, or jalapeño ranch for a flavor twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Perfect as a party snack, late-night craving, or game-day appetizer.
- Storage Tips: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven to keep fries crispy.