Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries: The Ultimate Recipe & Guide

Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries: Prepare to meet your new favorite indulgence! Imagine crispy, golden fries smothered in a savory, seasoned beef mixture, then generously blanketed with melted cheese and your favorite toppings. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will have you craving more with every single bite. This isn’t just a snack; it’s an experience!

While the exact origins of cheesy loaded beef fries are a bit hazy, the concept likely evolved from the classic American diner fare of chili cheese fries and the ever-popular poutine from Canada. These dishes, born from a desire for comfort food that’s both satisfying and shareable, have paved the way for countless variations, including our star today. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability; you can customize it to your heart’s content with different cheeses, toppings, and spice levels.

What makes cheesy loaded beef fries so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the satisfying crunch of the fries, the tender beef, and the gooey, melty cheese. The savory flavors are incredibly addictive, and the dish is undeniably fun to eat. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game night, or simply a treat to satisfy your cravings, this recipe delivers every time. Get ready to elevate your fry game!

Ingredients:

• For the Fries:
• 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Beef:
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
• ½ cup beef broth
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium, your preference!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Toppings (Optional but Highly Recommended!):
• Chopped green onions
• Diced tomatoes
• Pickled jalapeños
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Guacamole
• Bacon bits
• Your favorite hot sauce

Preparing the Fries:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those fries nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the potatoes: After peeling and cutting your russet potatoes into ½-inch thick fries, place them in a large bowl filled with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or even up to an hour) to remove excess starch. This step is key for achieving crispy fries that aren’t soggy. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. The drier they are, the better they’ll crisp up.
3. Season the fries: In the same large bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the oil and spices. I like to use my hands to really get in there and make sure everything is well distributed.
4. Bake the fries: Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the fries instead of baking them. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
5. Rest and Season Again: Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. Give them another sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking the Beef:

1. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants greasy beef fries!
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped green bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened.
3. Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans (rinsed and drained), taco seasoning, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning: After simmering, taste the beef mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more taco seasoning, salt, pepper, or even a pinch of chili powder for extra heat.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

1. Make a roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the cheese sauce. Be careful not to burn the roux, as this will give the cheese sauce a bitter taste.
2. Whisk in the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring that each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. This will prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
3. Add the seasonings: Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Don’t let the sauce boil, as this can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.
5. Keep warm: If you’re not using the cheese sauce immediately, keep it warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. You can also place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the sauce to prevent a skin from forming.

Assembling the Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries:

1. Arrange the fries: Spread the baked fries on a large serving platter or individual plates.
2. Top with beef: Spoon the cooked beef mixture evenly over the fries. Make sure to distribute the beef generously so everyone gets a good portion.
3. Drizzle with cheese sauce: Generously drizzle the cheese sauce over the beef-topped fries. Don’t be shy with the cheese sauce – it’s what makes these fries truly amazing!
4. Add your favorite toppings: Sprinkle with your desired toppings, such as chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, and bacon bits. Get creative and customize your fries to your liking!
5. Serve immediately: Serve the cheesy loaded beef fries immediately while they are hot and the cheese sauce is melted and gooey. These are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture or cheese sauce for extra heat.
• Different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese in the cheese sauce, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground beef or black beans for a vegetarian version.
• Air fryer fries: For even crispier fries, cook them in an air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Make ahead: The beef mixture and cheese sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before assembling the fries.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries are more than just a snack; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food with a kick. The combination of crispy fries, savory seasoned beef, and that gooey, melted cheese is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect dish for game night, a casual get-together with friends, or even just a satisfying weeknight treat when you need a little pick-me-up. What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. While I’ve outlined my favorite way to prepare these loaded fries, feel free to get creative and customize them to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat. Jalapeños are always a welcome addition, too! * Go gourmet! Swap out the cheddar cheese for a blend of Gruyere and Parmesan for a more sophisticated flavor profile. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley will elevate the presentation. * Make it a meal! Serve these fries alongside a crisp green salad or some coleslaw for a more complete and balanced meal. * Fry Alternatives: While classic fries are fantastic, consider using sweet potato fries for a touch of sweetness or waffle fries for extra crispiness and surface area to hold all those delicious toppings. Even tater tots would work wonderfully! * Beef Alternatives: Ground turkey or shredded chicken can easily be substituted for the ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using seasoned black beans or lentils. * Sauce Sensations: Experiment with different sauces! Ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or even a creamy avocado crema would be delicious additions. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find your perfect sauce pairing. * Add Some Veggies: Sautéed onions and peppers, diced tomatoes, or even some grilled corn can add a fresh and vibrant element to your loaded fries. I’m confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a new favorite in your household. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! I poured my heart into creating this recipe, and I’m so excited for you to try it. The beauty of cooking is in the sharing, so I encourage you to give these Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries a try and let me know what you think! Don’t be shy about sharing your own variations and serving suggestions in the comments below. I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to elevate my recipes, and I’d love to hear your creative ideas. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven (or fire up your fryer!), and get ready to indulge in a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to see your cheesy, beefy creations! I hope you enjoy every single bite! Please share your pictures and tag me in your posts – I’d love to see your take on this delicious recipe. Let’s spread the cheesy, beefy love!

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