Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries -

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food recipe: Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries! This delicious dish combines crispy fries, seasoned ground beef, and a rich cheese sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that will satisfy your cravings. Perfect for game day or as a hearty dinner, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries are the epitome of indulgence. The combination of textures—crispy fries, juicy beef, and creamy cheese—delivers a satisfying crunch that is hard to beat. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy classic comfort food with a gourmet twist, and it can be made quickly using frozen fries or fresh potatoes.

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries

1. **Choose the Right Fries**: For the best texture, opt for steak fries or fresh-cut russet potatoes that will hold up under the weight of the toppings.

2. **Season the Beef Generously**: A good seasoning mix ensures that the beef is flavorful. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings to match your palate.

3. **Experiment with Cheese Variations**: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are fantastic choices, consider mixing in some pepper jack for an extra kick or using a blend of cheeses for unique flavors.

4. **Layering is Key**: When assembling your dish, layer the fries, beef, and cheese sauce strategically to ensure every bite is fully loaded.

5. **Don’t Skip the Broiler**: For a gooey, perfectly melted cheese finish, a brief stint under the broiler makes all the difference—just keep an eye on it!

Ingredients

This recipe makes enough for about four servings. Below is a list of what you’ll need:

For the Fries:

1 lb (500g) frozen steak fries or fresh-cut russet potatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Beef Topping:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp taco seasoning (or DIY mix: cumin, chili powder, oregano)
1/2 cup beef broth for deglazing
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 cup milk (whole or half-and-half)
2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for meltiness
1 tsp mustard powder (optional, for tang)

Toppings (Pick Your Faves!):

Diced tomatoes
Sliced jalapeños (pickled or fresh)
Sour cream
Green onions or cilantro
Hot sauce or BBQ drizzle

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the fries by tossing them in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful coating helps to achieve a crispy texture.

Step 2: For frozen fries, arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness. If using an air fryer, set it to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket once during cooking.

Step 3: While the fries are baking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat to keep the beef juicy.

Step 4: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in the taco seasoning and pour in the beef broth, letting it simmer for about 5 minutes or until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: To make the cheese sauce, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then bring it to a simmer, stirring continuously until thickened over 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. If you’re using mustard powder for tanginess, add it now.

Step 7: Once the fries are done, transfer them to a serving dish or a wooden board. Pile the beef topping generously over the fries, followed by the creamy cheese sauce. Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, green onions, or hot sauce.

Step 8: If you desire an extra melty cheese finish, place the assembled fries under the broiler for about 2 minutes. Watch closely to ensure it doesn’t burn!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?

Yes, you can use fresh-cut russet potatoes. Slice them to your desired thickness, toss with seasonings, and bake as directed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the beef and cheese sauce ahead of time. Reheat each component when ready to assemble.

What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! Other great toppings include guacamole, pico de gallo, or even a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative like lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries are a game-changing comfort food that brings together all your favorite flavors in one delightful dish. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will surely become a favorite. With its customizable toppings and rich cheese sauce, you’ll be satisfying cravings in no time. Now it’s your turn to whip up this indulgent treat and enjoy every cheesy bite!