Crispy Loaded Fries with Cheddar and Bacon
A quick and easy snack featuring crispy oven-baked fries topped with melty sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh green onions. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups (600g) frozen French fries (straight-cut recommended)
- 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
- 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop into small pieces. Alternatively, microwave bacon between paper towels for 4-5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the frozen fries with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. If using, place a wire cooling rack on top to help with airflow. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fries are golden and crispy.
- Remove fries from the oven and sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon. Return to oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the hot fries.
- Serve immediately with optional sour cream.
Notes
Keep an eye on the cheese melting stage to avoid burning. Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to maintain crispiness. Toss fries in a little oil before seasoning for better spice adhesion and crisp texture. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded. Let fries rest a minute before serving to set the cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup of loade
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Protein: 15
Keywords: loaded fries, crispy fries, cheddar cheese, bacon, snack recipe, game day food, easy snack, comfort food