Baked Cheese Fries

Baked Cheese Fries are a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a cheesy twist. Crispy baked potato fries are topped with a blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, creating a gooey and flavorful snack or side dish. These fries are perfect for sharing at gatherings, as a game-day snack, or just as a treat for yourself. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Baked Cheese Fries.

INGREDIENTS

• • Russet Potatoes: 4 large, peeled and cut into fries, providing a hearty base for this dish.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, used to coat the fries and help them crisp up in the oven.

• • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, adding a subtle garlic flavor to the fries.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, enhancing the savory taste of the fries.
  • Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon, giving the fries a hint of smokiness and color.

• • Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the fries to perfection.
  • Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded, for a sharp and melty topping.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded, adding a gooey texture to the fries.

• Optional Toppings: Chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, sour cream, ranch dressing, for added flavor and garnish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the fries from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and black pepper to taste. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.

Step 3:

Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This ensures they cook evenly and get crispy. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

Step 4:

Once the fries are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese over the hot fries. Return the fries to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5:

Remove the cheesy fries from the oven and, if desired, top them with optional garnishes such as chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, a drizzle of sour cream, or ranch dressing. Serve the Baked Cheese Fries hot and enjoy them while they’re still warm and gooey!

Serving and Storage Tips

Baked Cheese Fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the fries are still crispy and the cheese is melty. They make a great appetizer, snack, or side dish, especially when paired with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or even a spicy aioli. If you’re serving these at a party, consider offering a variety of toppings on the side so guests can customize their fries to their liking.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fries on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cheese is melted again. Reheating them in the oven will help retain some of the crispiness.

Helpful Notes

This recipe is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. If you prefer a more decadent treat, try topping the fries with additional cheese varieties such as pepper jack or gouda.

For a healthier alternative, you can use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes, or opt for low-fat cheese. If you’re looking to add some extra flavor, try sprinkling the fries with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends double-baking the fries for extra crispiness. After the first bake, let the fries cool slightly, then return them to the oven for a second bake before adding the cheese.

Chef Ina Garten suggests grating your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties, as freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and has a better flavor.

Chef Jamie Oliver advises using a mix of different cheeses to add complexity to the flavor profile, such as combining sharp cheddar with a creamy mozzarella or a tangy blue cheese.