Ingredients
Fries and Seasoning
- 28-32 ounces frozen French fries
- 1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Cheese Sauce
- 4 tablespoons ranch dressing (plus more for dipping)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 cups medium cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the fries package. Line two baking sheets with foil and spray them lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Seasonings and Coat Fries: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread the frozen fries evenly on the prepared baking sheets, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both trays, reserving about half a teaspoon for garnish.
- Toss Fries to Coat and Arrange: Toss the fries gently to ensure they’re evenly coated with the seasoning, then arrange them in a single layer on the trays for even baking.
- Bake the Fries: Place the trays in the oven and bake the fries according to the package directions, remembering to rotate the trays halfway through baking to promote even crispness.
- Start the Cheese Sauce – Melt Butter: While the fries bake, melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat, preparing the base for the sauce.
- Add Flour and Cook Roux: Whisk in the flour and cook for one to two minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux and eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Incorporate Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and combined, which will start thickening as it heats.
- Thicken Sauce and Add Cheese: Allow the sauce to cook for a few minutes until it thickens, then add the shredded cheddar cheese in small increments, stirring constantly so each addition melts completely before adding more.
- Maintain Warmth of Sauce: Reduce the heat to the lowest setting to keep the cheese sauce warm without overcooking it while finishing the fries.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency if Needed: If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in an additional tablespoon or two of milk. The sauce tends to thicken as it cools, so keeping it warm helps maintain the right consistency.
- Assemble the Voodoo Fries: Place about a quarter of the baked fries on a plate, spoon roughly ¼ cup of the cheese sauce over them, then drizzle with about one tablespoon of ranch dressing. Sprinkle a bit of the reserved seasoning atop for extra flavor if desired.
- Repeat Assembly: Continue layering fries, cheese sauce, ranch, and seasoning until serving all desired portions.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Louisiana Voodoo Fries hot, accompanied by extra cheese sauce, ranch, and ketchup for dipping to enjoy the fullest flavor experience.
Notes
- This recipe uses frozen fries for convenience, but homemade fries can be substituted for a fresher result.
- Be sure to keep the cheese sauce warm to make pouring and coating the fries easier.
- You can adjust the seasoning quantities to make the fries spicier or milder according to your preference.
- Use fresh shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Reserve some seasoning for garnish to add that final pop of flavor and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
