This delicious Loaded Fries comes together in about 30 minutes and uses a sheet pan method for a quick and easy weeknight meal that your family will love! Switch up the toppings to suit your taste, or use it as a ‘clean out the fridge’ meal to get rid of leftovers and odds and ends! Seriously, from cheesy flavors to crispy bacon, these loaded fries are bound to become a staple your family loves just as much as mine does!
The Game-Changing Ingredients
- 2 large Russet Potatoes
- 1-2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or canola)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1/2 cup crispy crumbled Bacon
- 1/4 cup Ranch Dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped Green Onions
- 1/4 cup chopped Chives
- Optional: 1 cup mixed cheeses, 1/2-1 cup caramelized onions, pickle slices, finely chopped burger patties
How to Make The Ultimate Loaded Fries
So, let’s get to it! Putting together these loaded fries is really straightforward, and you’ll find that there’s minimal cleanup when you utilize a sheet pan.
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes
Start by prepping those potatoes, peel them if you want, but I usually leave the skins on for that extra texture. Cut them into 1/4-inch thick matchsticks or even thicker wedges if you’re feeling rebellious!
Step 2: Soak to Crisp
This step is the secret to getting crispy fries! Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, allowing for that crunch we all crave.
Step 3: Dry, & Toss with Oil
Once the potatoes are soaked, dry them thoroughly with paper towels. It’s really important to get all that excess moisture out before you cook them! Toss the potatoes with that neutral oil and your favorite seasonings in a large bowl. If you like garlic powder or smoked paprika, go wild!
Step 4: Perfect Roasting
Now, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a sheet pan. Books say 20 minutes first, then flip those fries over and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes until they’re golden and crispy!
If you’re more into the air frying game, preheat to 375°F and air fry in a single layer for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Pro tip: you’ll want to keep an eye on those fries, they can go from perfectly crispy to “uh-oh, I forgot” in no time!
Step 5: Load It Up!
Once your fries are cooked to that perfect, golden crispiness, it’s time to layer on your toppings! Start with shredded cheddar, followed by crispy bacon, then drizzle with ranch dressing, and add your garnishes.
Step 6: Sudden Cravings
Now, you’re basically salivating, right?! Pop the loaded fries back into the oven for 5-10 minutes until everything is melty and ooey-gooey. Get ready to feast!
If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my Baked Mac and Cheese!
Why This Recipe Works
Comfort Food Vibes
Loaded fries are the ultimate comfort food! Each bite is loaded with tons of flavor that just warms your heart. Seriously, it’s like getting a hug from your favorite blanket but, y’know, in the form of fries.
Customizable
What I absolutely love is how customizable this recipe is. You can use whatever ingredients you have, add beans, chili, or even veggies! The whole family will love the opportunity to pick and choose their favorites.
Quick & Easy
This recipe comes together all in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends. You can whip this up quickly, and it’s really forgiving if you decide to change things up a bit.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch on a Sunday and store them for weekday lunches or dinners. Just reheat and add toppings, and you’re golden! Minimal effort, maximum reward.
Kids Love Them
The whole family will love it, but let’s be honest, kids and loaded fries are a match made in heaven. They can’t resist that gooey cheese and crispy bacon, and it’s a surefire way to get them excited about dinner!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your loaded fries with a nice side salad, maybe a simple Caesar or a crunchy coleslaw. They also go great with burgers, hot dogs, or even grilled chicken for a hearty meal!
Storage Tips
These fries keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Reheating Tips
For reheating, I recommend popping them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. You can also use the air fryer for about 5-8 minutes to bring back that crispy texture!
Freezer Friendly?
While I wouldn’t recommend freezing the loaded fries after they’re topped (things can get a bit mushy), you can absolutely freeze the plain fries before you load them up! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before putting them in an airtight freezer bag.
And that’s the beauty of this recipe! It’s all about quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious comfort food that everyone can enjoy. I can’t wait for you to give this a try and hear how your family loves it just as much as mine does!
So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and make your own special batch of the Ultimate Loaded Fries. Enjoy!
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The Ultimate Loaded Fries
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A quick and easy recipe for loaded fries that the whole family will love, customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 large Russet Potatoes
- 1–2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or canola)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1/2 cup crispy crumbled Bacon
- 1/4 cup Ranch Dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped Green Onions
- 1/4 cup chopped Chives
- Optional: 1 cup mixed cheeses, 1/2-1 cup caramelized onions, pickle slices, finely chopped burger patties
Instructions
- Prep the potatoes by cutting them into 1/4-inch thick matchsticks or wedges.
- Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Dry the potatoes thoroughly with paper towels and toss them with the neutral oil and seasoning.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the potatoes on a sheet pan in a single layer and roast for 20 minutes. Flip and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Layer on your toppings: add cheddar cheese, bacon, drizzle ranch dressing, and add garnishes.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is melty.
Notes
Customize with whatever toppings you have on hand for a fun and creative meal. Great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 40mg