Loaded Cheese Fries with Beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love cheesy, savory, and crispy dishes, then these Loaded Cheese Fries with Beef are a must-try! The combination of crispy fries, seasoned beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings creates the ultimate flavor-packed bite. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, a side, or even a main course. Plus, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 1 bag frozen French fries or 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
• 8 oz ground beef
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• ¼ cup chopped tomatoes
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the French fries package or to 425°F (220°C) if using fresh potatoes. Bake the fries until golden and crispy, about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. While the fries are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Season the beef with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, and cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and place them on a serving plate or dish.
5. Top the fries with the cooked ground beef, spreading it evenly over the fries.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef, then return the loaded fries to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and top with sour cream, diced red onion, chopped tomatoes, and parsley or green onions.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or a veggie patty for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the beef for a spicy kick.
• Different Cheese: You can swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover loaded fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the loaded fries in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help maintain their crispiness. You can also reheat them in the microwave, though they may lose some of their crispness.

FAQs

Can I use homemade fries instead of frozen?

Yes, homemade fries work great! Just cut your russet potatoes into fries, toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and bake or fry them until crispy.

Can I use a different kind of meat?

Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken  would work well in place of the beef, giving you different flavor variations.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the fries and beef ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble and bake the loaded fries when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the loaded fries after they’ve been assembled. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When ready to eat, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Can I make this dish healthier?

To make this dish healthier, try using sweet potato fries instead of regular fries, lean ground turkey instead of beef, and reduce the amount of cheese and sour cream.

Can I add other toppings?

Yes! Feel free to add other toppings like sliced avocado,  or even guacamole for a fun twist.

How do I keep the fries crispy?

To keep the fries crispy, avoid covering them in foil after baking, as that can trap moisture. If you’re making homemade fries, bake them on a wire rack to allow air circulation around the fries.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cheddar with any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for an extra spicy kick.

Can I use frozen beef?

It’s better to cook fresh ground beef for this recipe, but if you have frozen ground beef, just make sure to thaw it before cooking.

What can I serve with Loaded Cheese Fries?

These fries are great on their own, but you can serve them with a side of coleslaw, a fresh green salad, or a dipping sauce like ranch or BBQ sauce.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheese Fries with Beef are a mouthwatering dish that combines crispy fries, savory beef, and gooey cheese, topped with fresh, crunchy vegetables and sour cream. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a full meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s customizable, easy to prepare, and perfect for satisfying your cravings for something rich and indulgent.

Print