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Crispy Chili Cheese Fries Recipe Easy Loaded with Melty Cheddar

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy fries topped with hearty, spicy chili and melty sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for game nights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Russet potatoes (about 4 medium-sized, cut into fries)
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil (for frying or roasting)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Ground beef (1 pound / 450 grams)
  • Onion (1 small, finely chopped)
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  • Tomato sauce (1 cup / 240 ml)
  • Kidney beans (1 cup / 160 grams, drained and rinsed, optional)
  • Chili powder (1 tablespoon)
  • Cumin (1 teaspoon)
  • Paprika (1 teaspoon)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Water or beef broth (1/2 cup / 120 ml)
  • Sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups / 200 grams, shredded)
  • Optional garnishes: sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, sour cream, fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Prepare the fries: Wash and peel potatoes if desired. Cut into 1/4 inch thick strips. Soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
  2. Cook the fries: For frying, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Dry potatoes thoroughly and fry in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain and season with salt. For baking, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss fries with 2 tablespoons oil, spread on wire rack over baking sheet, roast 30-35 minutes flipping halfway.
  3. Make the chili: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté onion until translucent (~3 minutes). Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Add ground beef, cook until browned and no longer pink (6-8 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
  5. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  6. Add tomato sauce and broth (or water), then kidney beans if using. Simmer on medium-low for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened but saucy.
  7. Assemble fries: Spread fries evenly in oven-safe dish. Spoon warm chili over fries.
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Broil or bake at 400°F (205°C) for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  9. Garnish with jalapeños, green onions, sour cream, or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Soak potatoes to remove starch for crispiness. Dry fries completely before cooking. Fry twice if possible for extra crispiness. Assemble just before serving to avoid soggy fries. Use sharp cheddar for best melt. Simmer chili gently to keep sauce thick but moist. Broil cheese carefully to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese fries, crispy fries, loaded fries, game night recipe, comfort food, cheddar cheese, spicy chili, easy recipe

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/crispy-chili-cheese-fries-recipe-easy-loaded-with-melty-cheddar/