Description
These homemade loaded fries are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Featuring golden-brown fries, a rich three-cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and your favorite toppings, this recipe is perfect for game nights, parties, or a satisfying snack. Learn how to make the ultimate loaded fries with step-by-step instructions and pro tips for perfect layering and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fries:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, cut into fries
- 2 tbsp white vinegar (for parboiling)
- 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- 1 cup cubed Velveeta cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
Toppings:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Fries:
- Peel and cut russet potatoes into thin fries.
- Soak the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Parboil the fries in a pot of water with 2 tbsp vinegar for 5 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
- Heat vegetable oil to 325°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 3-4 minutes until tender but not browned. Remove and drain.
- Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes again until crispy and golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Remove and drain.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
Making the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk, whisking continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Gradually stir in cheddar, Colby Jack, and Velveeta cheese, whisking until fully melted.
- Add salt, black pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Keep warm on low heat.
Assembling the Loaded Fries:
- Arrange crispy fries on a serving platter.
- Drizzle warm cheese sauce evenly over the fries.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and pickled jalapeños (if using).
Drizzle with sour cream and serve immediately.
Notes
- Double frying the potatoes ensures extra crispiness.
- You can substitute air-fried or oven-baked fries for a healthier version.
- Try different cheese blends like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor.
- Serve with extra cheese sauce or dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizers
- Method: Deep-frying, Stovetop
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ap1/4 of the total recipe
- Calories: ~620 kcal
- Sugar: ~3g
- Sodium: ~820mg
- Fat: ~40g
- Saturated Fat: ~18g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~18g
- Trans Fat: ~0.5g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Protein: ~18g
- Cholesterol: ~65mg
Keywords: Loaded fries, cheese fries, crispy fries, homemade fries, game day snacks