Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries

These Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries are the ultimate indulgence, combining crispy fries with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, serving them for game day, or making them a hearty meal, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. It’s a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries are packed with flavor and texture in every bite. The crispy fries provide the perfect base, while the seasoned ground beef and gooey cheddar cheese create a savory topping that will have everyone coming back for more. Topped with sour cream, green onions, and fresh tomatoes, it’s a complete dish that’s perfect for casual dining or entertaining. It’s quick, customizable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

• 4 cups frozen fries (or homemade fries)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup green onions, chopped

• ¼ cup diced tomatoes

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven and cook the fries according to package instructions, or fry them until golden and crispy if using fresh potatoes.

2. Cook the Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat, then add taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Follow the seasoning packet instructions or add about ¼ cup of water if using homemade seasoning. Simmer until well combined and cooked through.

3. Assemble the Fries: Once the fries are cooked, arrange them on a serving platter or baking sheet.

4. Add Beef and Cheese: Spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the fries, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

5. Melt the Cheese: Place the fries with beef and cheese under a broiler or back into the oven for a few minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

6. Top and Serve: Remove from the oven and top with sour cream, chopped green onions, and diced tomatoes.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

• Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add Beans: For extra protein and texture, add a layer of black beans or refried beans along with the beef.

• Switch the Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.

• Top with Guacamole: Instead of sour cream, add a dollop of guacamole for a creamy and slightly tangy twist.

• Spicy Beef: If you like more heat, mix some hot sauce or cayenne pepper into the taco seasoning for a spicier beef mixture.

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for seasoned tofu or a veggie mixture, like sautéed mushrooms, for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly again. You can also microwave individual servings, but the fries may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Can I make the fries ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake or fry the fries ahead of time, and then store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat and add the beef and cheese for the final step.

Can I make this dish healthier?

To make it lighter, use sweet potato fries instead of regular fries, lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt as a topping.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! If jumbo shells aren’t available, you can use any other pasta shape you like, such as penne, ziti, or farfalle.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

For more spice, you can increase the crushed red pepper, add some chili flakes, or use a spicy marinara sauce. You can also add a chopped jalapeño or some hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Can I freeze these loaded fries?

Yes, you can freeze the loaded fries, but it’s best to freeze them before adding the toppings. Cook the fries and beef, then assemble everything (except the sour cream and fresh veggies) and freeze. When ready to eat, bake from frozen and top with fresh ingredients.

What other toppings can I use?

You can customize the toppings with any of your favorite fixings, such as diced avocado, shredded lettuce, salsa, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing or hot sauce.

Can I make this dish in advance?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the beef mixture and fries in advance and assemble them later. Just reheat the fries and beef mixture before topping with cheese and broiling.

How long do I grill the chicken if it’s thicker?

If your chicken breasts are thicker than average, it may take a few extra minutes to cook through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this recipe on a charcoal grill?

Yes, you can absolutely use a charcoal grill. Just make sure to maintain medium-high heat and monitor the chicken to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries are the ultimate comfort food indulgence, with crispy fries, seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and all your favorite toppings. Perfect for game day, a snack, or a hearty meal, this dish is sure to satisfy any craving for something indulgent and flavorful. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, these loaded fries will definitely hit the spot!

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