Loaded Cheese Fries Beef (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Potatoes

01 - 1 bag frozen French fries or 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries

→ Beef

02 - 1/2 pound ground beef

→ Seasonings

03 - 1 teaspoon paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - Salt, to taste
06 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Cheese and Dairy

07 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
08 - 1/2 cup sour cream

→ Toppings

09 - 1/4 cup diced red onion
10 - 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onions

# Instructions:

01 - Set the oven to 425°F. Arrange the French fries in a single layer on a sheet pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
02 - Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned. Sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
03 - Transfer baked fries to an oven-safe dish. Evenly scatter shredded cheddar cheese over fries, then distribute the cooked beef mixture on top.
04 - Return the dish to the oven and bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
05 - Drizzle sour cream over the hot loaded fries. Sprinkle diced red onion, chopped tomatoes, and parsley or green onions over the top. Serve promptly while hot for best flavor and texture.

# Notes:

01 - For optimal crispiness, dry cut potatoes thoroughly before baking. Customize with additional toppings like jalapeños or bacon as desired.