Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries – A Perfect Snack or Meal
If you love crispy fries topped with juicy beef, melty cheese, and all your favorite toppings, you’re going to love this recipe for Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries. Whether you’re serving it as a fun appetizer for game day, a hearty snack, or even a filling meal, these loaded fries are sure to satisfy every craving.
With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish features crispy golden fries topped with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and delicious fixings. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and hard to resist!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries
- Crispy and Flavorful: The fries are perfectly crispy, while the seasoned beef and melty cheese create a delicious, satisfying combination.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, bacon, or green onions to make them even more delicious.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties, gatherings, or just a fun family meal.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner or snack. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with beef, cheese, and tasty toppings, this dish is sure to fill you up.
Ingredients
for Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries
For the Fries:
- 1 bag frozen French fries (or fresh homemade fries) – Choose thick-cut fries for a heartier base.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For crisping the fries.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
For the Beef Topping:
- 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef works well for this recipe.
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped – For savory flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix) – Adds bold flavor to the beef.
- 1/2 cup water – To help the seasoning blend into the beef.
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – The star ingredient for cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – For a creamy, tangy finish.
- 2-3 tablespoons sliced jalapeños (optional) – For a spicy kick.
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions – For freshness and color.
- 1/4 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional) – For extra crunch and flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries
Step 1: Cook the Fries
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the frozen fries on a baking sheet in a single layer, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake according to the package instructions, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy (usually 25-30 minutes).
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- While the fries are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing well. Let the beef simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Assemble the Loaded Fries
- Once the fries are cooked and crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large serving platter or baking dish.
- Evenly spread the cooked beef mixture over the fries.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef and fries.
- Place the loaded fries back in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Remove the cheesy beef fries from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
- Top with sour cream, sliced jalapeños, green onions, and crumbled bacon (if using).
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries
- Customizable Toppings: You can add any of your favorite toppings, such as guacamole, chopped tomatoes, or even cilantro to suit your tastes.
- Make It Spicy: Add more jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to increase the heat level. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
- Use Homemade Fries: For an extra crispy texture, make your own fries from scratch. Cut fresh potatoes into wedges, season with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30-40 minutes.
- Use Different Cheeses: Try using a mix of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor twist.
- Beef Alternatives: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to enjoy these fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the beef mixture and fries ahead of time. Store the beef mixture in the fridge for up to 3 days, and bake the fries right before assembling the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with black beans or vegetarian crumbles to make a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
How Can I Make Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries Spicy?
To make it spicy, add extra jalapeños, drizzle some hot sauce on top, or use spicy taco seasoning for the beef. You can also top the fries with a bit of sriracha sauce for a bold, spicy kick.
Can I Freeze Loaded Fries?
If you have leftovers, you can freeze the beef and fries separately. The fries may lose some crispiness when reheated, but the flavors will still be delicious. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Herb Pasta
Why You Should Try Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries
These Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries are a delicious combination of crispy fries, seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese, making them the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for parties, game days, or a quick and indulgent meal, this recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you like them spicy, cheesy, or topped with your favorite fixings, these loaded fries will quickly become a family favorite.