Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Loaded Cheese Fries

Loaded Cheese Fries

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Maria
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Loaded Cheese Fries are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for parties or a casual dinner. Crispy French fries are piled high with your choice of ground beef or hot Italian sausage, topped with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, fresh veggies, and sour cream. Every bite is a burst of flavor and texture!


Ingredients

For the Fries:

  • 1 (2 lb.) bag frozen fries

For Meat Option 1:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 lb. ground beef

  • 1 package taco seasoning

  • 2/3 cup water

For Meat Option 2:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 lb. Hot Italian Sausage (removed from casings)

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Toppings:

ย 

  • 1 red onion, diced

  • 1 jar jalapeรฑos, drained

  • 1-2 tomatoes, diced

  • Sour cream

  • Green onions, diced


Instructions

  • For the Fries:

    • Preheat the oven to 375ยฐF. Spread the frozen fries on a large baking sheet and bake according to the package instructions.

  • For Meat Option 1:

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (about 5-6 minutes).

    • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned. Stir in taco seasoning and water, then simmer until thickened. Drain excess fat and set aside.

  • For Meat Option 2:

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart until browned. Set aside.

  • For the Cheese Sauce:

    • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until bubbly.

    • Slowly add milk, whisking constantly, and bring to a simmer. Let it thicken (about 3-5 minutes).

    • Turn off the heat and add cheese, 1 cup at a time, stirring until completely melted. If the cheese isnโ€™t melting, turn the heat to low to help it melt.

    • Stir in salt and cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

ย 

  • For Assembly:

    • Once fries are done, remove from the oven and top with the cooked ground meat or sausage, cheese sauce, diced red onions, jalapeรฑos, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and green onions. Serve and enjoy!


Notes

  • You can choose between ground beef or hot Italian sausage for the meat topping, or use both!

  • If you want to reduce the spice level, omit the cayenne pepper from the cheese sauce.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 1100mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg