Loaded Cheese Beef Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these Loaded Cheese Beef Fries because they’re the ultimate comfort food that combines all of my favorite flavors. The fries are perfectly crispy, the seasoned beef is savory and flavorful, and the melted cheddar cheese adds that extra richness that makes each bite irresistible. The fresh toppings, like sour cream, diced tomatoes, and green onions, provide a refreshing contrast to the cheesy goodness, making this dish the perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game day, a casual dinner, or any occasion that calls for a delicious snack.

Ingredients

• 1 bag frozen French fries (about 20 oz)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning or seasoning of choice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes

• 1/4 cup sliced green onions

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Optional toppings:

• Pickled jalapeños

• Diced red onion

• Hot sauce

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bake the French fries according to package directions until golden and crispy.

2. While the fries bake, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. Stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the beef is well-coated with the seasoning.

4. Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to an oven-safe dish or sheet pan.

5. Top the fries with the seasoned beef, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

6. Return the fries to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.

7. Remove from the oven and finish with sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro (if using).

8. Serve immediately with additional toppings like pickled jalapeños, diced red onion, or hot sauce, as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

This recipe is so versatile and can be easily customized to suit your taste. For extra heat, you can add pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top. If you’re a fan of spicier foods, add some diced red onion or chili flakes for a little extra kick. For a lighter version, you can swap out the ground beef for lean ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or olives for added flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative with the toppings!

Storage/Reheating

These Loaded Cheese Beef Fries are best served fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the fries are heated through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! You can use fresh fries or even make homemade fries. Just bake or fry them according to your preferred method, then proceed with the recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While these Loaded Cheese Beef Fries are best enjoyed immediately, you can prepare the seasoned beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake the fries, top with the pre-cooked beef, and melt the cheese.

Can I use a different cheese for this recipe?

Yes! While cheddar cheese is perfect for this dish, you can substitute it with any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for a gooey, stringy texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To amp up the heat, you can add extra jalapeños, a few dashes of hot sauce, or even sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top. If you like extra spicy beef, try adding more taco seasoning or chili powder when cooking the beef.

Can I make these Loaded Cheese Beef Fries without the beef?

Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, you can use black beans, refried beans, or even sautéed mushrooms in place of the beef. The rest of the recipe will still provide all the flavor and comfort you love.

Conclusion

These Loaded Cheese Beef Fries are the perfect indulgent snack or meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. With crispy fries, seasoned beef, and melty cheese, this dish is packed with flavor and texture. The fresh toppings add a light, zesty contrast, making it a well-balanced and satisfying treat. Whether you’re serving them for game day, as a party snack, or just because, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone!