Loaded Cheese Fries Beef

This loaded cheese fries and beef recipe delivers hot crispy fries heaped with seasoned beef melty cheddar and a fresh creamy finish It is pure comfort food that satisfies a crowd or conquers a night-in craving after a long week

When I first whipped up this dish for a movie night everyone dove in and not a single fry was left within minutes It instantly became our snack night tradition

Ingredients

• Potatoes: Choose the best russet potatoes or reliable frozen fries for golden crispiness Fresh potatoes need to be firm with no dark spots
• Ground beef: Adds hearty protein Opt for an 80 or 85 percent lean mix for the best balance of flavor and juiciness
• Paprika: Gives a warm smoky undertone Sweet Hungarian paprika is especially nice here
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth Always check for freshness to avoid a musty taste
• Salt and black pepper: Bring out all the flavors Use kosher or sea salt for seasoning
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and brings a sharp cheesy burst Buy a block and shred it yourself for better melt and taste
• Sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess Choose full-fat for the richest finish
• Red onion: Sharp crunch and color Dice just before using for the freshest bite
• Tomatoes: Juicy fresh topping Roma or cherry tomatoes work well for less moisture
• Chopped parsley or green onions: Adds bright color and freshness Flat leaf parsley or spring onions give the best look and bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fries:

Cut russet potatoes into even fries or open a bag of frozen fries Arrange them in a single layer on a sheet pan Bake at 425 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes flip midway until the fries develop a golden crust and the insides are fluffy

Brown the Beef:

Warm a skillet over medium heat Add ground beef and crumble it with a wooden spoon Cook until browned throughout Mix in paprika garlic powder salt and black pepper Stir well and let the beef absorb the flavor Cook until the beef is done and then drain extra fat so the cheese fries stay crisp

Build the Layers:

Pile the baked fries into an oven-safe dish Scatter shredded cheddar over the fries ensuring an even coat Layer on the seasoned cooked beef so each bite is loaded

Melt the Cheese:

Return the dish to the oven Bake for about 5 minutes until the cheddar melts completely and bubbles form around the edges Watch closely to avoid overbaking

Finish with Toppings:

Remove from the oven Immediately drizzle with tangy sour cream so it softens over the hot cheese Sprinkle diced red onion chopped tomatoes and your choice of parsley or green onions on top for crunch and color

Serve Hot:

Serve right away for the crispiest fries and gooey cheese Make sure to dig in before they cool for the dreamiest texture

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Cheddar is hands down my favorite part For my family sharp cheddar is a must and we always sneak a few extra shreds on top before baking My kids now compete to get the cheesiest scoop every time we make it

Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep for two days To revive crispy texture bake leftovers in a hot oven rather than microwaving which can make fries soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in sweet potato fries for a different twist or use ground turkey instead of beef Monterey Jack and pepper jack are great cheese choices Pickled jalapeños give it extra zing and a handful of crumbled cooked bacon brings it over the top

Serving Suggestions

Use a big platter lined with parchment for easy sharing If you want to turn this into a meal serve with a green salad or add cooked corn or black beans for more flavor and color Use tortilla chips as a side for dipping up the gooey extras at the bottom

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Cultural Context

Loaded fries are a spinoff of classic North American diner food They mix French fry culture with nacho-style toppings and have endless local variations In my hometown we started making these for backyard cookouts and now every family member has their favorite take on toppings

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get crispy fries in the oven?

Ensure fries are spread in a single layer and thoroughly dried before baking. Flip halfway through baking for even crispiness.

→ Can I use other cheeses besides cheddar?

Yes, mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack melt well and offer different flavors for your loaded fries.

→ Should the beef be drained after cooking?

Yes, draining excess fat from the beef prevents soggy fries and keeps the dish balanced in texture and flavor.

→ What toppings work best for loaded fries?

Alongside onions and tomatoes, try jalapeños, bacon, or green onions for extra kick and color.

→ Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Swap ground beef for seasoned beans or plant-based crumbles to keep the taste hearty and satisfying.