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Cheesy Loaded French Fries

Crispy, golden French fries topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese create a messy, indulgent dish perfect for sharing or satisfying comfort cravings. The fries are double-fried for extra crunch, then smothered in cheese and finished under the broiler for a bubbling, golden top. This dish combines the crispy texture of fries with the rich, creamy melt of cheese for a truly satisfying treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large Russet potatoes peeled and cut into thick fries
  • 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
  • 1.5 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • to taste salt for seasoning
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream optional, for smoothing cheese
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly cracked

Equipment

  • Deep fry thermometer
  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Baking sheet with rack
  • Grater or cheese shredder
  • Oven broiler

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and prepare a baking sheet with a rack.
  2. Slice the potatoes into thick fries, then soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps them crisp up.
  3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel. This step is key to achieving crispy fries.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot and heat it to 180°C (355°F), using a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  5. Fry the potatoes in batches, cooking until they turn golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes each batch. Maintain the oil temperature for perfect crunch.
  6. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries, then drain on paper towels. While still hot, season generously with salt.
  7. Transfer the fried fries to the prepared baking sheet and spread them evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Place the baking sheet under the oven broiler for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
  9. Remove the loaded fries from the oven, sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper, and serve immediately for a messy, cheesy delight.

Notes

For extra flavor, add chopped chives, hot sauce, or bacon bits on top before serving. Use a good quality sharp cheddar for the best melt and flavor.