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- 4 large russet potatoes - 1 can (15 oz) chili (meat or vegetarian) - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese The main ingredients form the heart of your loaded chili cheese fries. The russet potatoes bring a great texture and flavor. Choose a chili that you love, whether it's meat-based or vegetarian. The shredded cheddar cheese adds creaminess and a rich taste. - ½ cup sour cream - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced - 1/4 small red onion, finely chopped - Fresh cilantro, for garnish Toppings make your fries even better. Sour cream cools the heat from chili. Sliced jalapeño adds spice and crunch. Chopped red onion gives a fresh taste. Fresh cilantro is optional but adds color and flavor. - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste Seasoning is key. Olive oil helps the fries crisp up nicely. Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Always taste as you go to find the right balance. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps the fries cook well. 2. Next, wash and scrub the russet potatoes. Make sure they are clean. 3. Cut the potatoes into fries about 1/4 inch thick. The size helps them cook evenly. 1. In a large bowl, toss the cut fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Ensure every fry gets coated well. 2. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This keeps them from sticking. 3. Bake the fries for 30-35 minutes. Flip them halfway through. This ensures they get golden and crispy. 1. While the fries bake, heat the chili in a saucepan over medium heat. You want it warm and ready. 2. Once the fries are crispy, take them out of the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. 3. Return the fries to the oven for 5-7 minutes. Wait until the cheese is melted and bubbly. 4. Take the loaded fries out and top them with the heated chili. Make it as generous as you like! 5. Add dollops of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped red onion. These toppings add great flavor. 6. If you want, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve the fries right away for the best taste! To get crispy fries, cut the potatoes evenly. Aim for 1/4 inch thick pieces. This helps them cook at the same rate. Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch. After soaking, dry them well with a towel. When baking, spread the fries out on the sheet. Keep them in a single layer. This helps them crisp up nicely. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even baking. Look for a golden color when they are done. Using different types of cheese can change the game. Try pepper jack for a spicy kick. Or use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a creamy texture. Each cheese brings its own flavor to the dish. Add toppings to make it your own. Try diced tomatoes, green onions, or even avocado. These extras add freshness and crunch. You can also drizzle with hot sauce for extra heat. Avoid overcooking the fries. Check them frequently in the oven. Overcooked fries can turn soggy and lose their crunch. Don't forget to season the fries well. Under-seasoned fries will taste bland. Use salt and pepper to make them pop. When heating the chili, make sure it’s hot but not boiling. Underheating can make the dish less enjoyable. Aim for a warm, thick chili to top off your fries. Pro Tips Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, use russet potatoes as they crisp up nicely and have a fluffy interior. Season Well: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper when tossing the fries. Proper seasoning enhances the flavor significantly. Keep an Eye on the Cheese: Watch the fries closely when melting the cheese to prevent burning. You want it perfectly gooey! Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like diced tomatoes or olives for a personalized touch to your loaded fries! {{image_2}} You can make loaded chili cheese fries suit your diet. For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and chili. This keeps the dish tasty and meat-free. Choose a chili with beans and veggies. Both options remain hearty and satisfying. If you need gluten-free fries, pick fresh potatoes and gluten-free chili. Many canned chilies are gluten-free. Always check the label to be safe. You can enjoy these fries without worry. Want to spice things up? Try international twists! For a Tex-Mex flair, add guacamole and salsa. You can use spicy queso instead of cheddar cheese. This adds more flavor and creaminess. For a Mediterranean touch, use feta cheese and olives. Drizzle some tzatziki sauce on top for extra zest. You can also play with chili styles. Try a spicy beef chili or a hearty white bean chili for different tastes. Loaded chili cheese fries make a great appetizer or a main dish. Serve them in a big bowl for sharing, or on a plate for individual servings. Pair them with drinks like iced tea or a cold beer. They also go well with a side salad or some fresh veggies. This adds balance and freshness to your meal. To store leftovers, let the loaded chili cheese fries cool down. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure to eat them within 3 days for the best taste. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. This makes them crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they may get soggy. You can freeze these fries either before or after baking. If freezing raw, cut the potatoes and toss them with oil and seasoning. Spread them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. To freeze after baking, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe container. For the best texture, eat them within 2 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-35 minutes. In the fridge, the loaded chili cheese fries last about 3 days. To keep them fresh, store them in an airtight container. If you see any mold or a strange smell, it’s time to discard them. Always check your leftovers before eating. If they look or smell off, play it safe and throw them away. You can make simple swaps for healthier options. - Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes. - Choose a lower-fat cheese. - Opt for a low-calorie sour cream or Greek yogurt. - Select a no-bean chili or one with lean meat. These changes can help lower calories without losing flavor. Yes, frozen fries work well! - Look for fries without added seasonings. - Cook them according to package directions. - Spread them out on the baking sheet. This ensures they get crispy and golden. A thick, hearty chili is ideal. - Try a beef or turkey chili for rich flavor. - Vegetarian chili adds a nice touch, too. - Chili with beans gives extra texture. The key is to choose a chili you love. You can easily swap ingredients! - Use a vegetarian or vegan chili. - Replace cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese. - Swap sour cream for a vegan version or avocado. These changes keep the dish tasty and satisfying. You now have all you need to make delicious Loaded Chili Cheese Fries. We covered the key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for crispy fries. With so many options and variations, this dish can suit everyone. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly to enjoy later. Whether you want a snack or a meal, these fries are sure to please. Dive in and create your version; it’s simple and fun! Enjoy your tasty creation and share it with others.

Loaded Chili Cheese Fries

Crispy fries topped with chili, cheese, and fresh toppings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) chili (any style, meat or vegetarian)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 1 whole jalapeño, thinly sliced
  • 0.25 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • optional fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into fries (about 1/4 inch thick).
  • In a large bowl, toss the cut fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  • Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  • While the fries are baking, heat the chili in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
  • Once the fries are crispy, remove them from the oven and sprinkle them with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
  • Remove the loaded fries from the oven and top them generously with heated chili.
  • Add dollops of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped red onion on top for an extra kick.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor.
Keyword cheese, chili, fries, snack