Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of game day—friends gathered, excitement in the air, and of course, the aroma of delicious food wafting through the house. If you’re looking to elevate your snack game this season, look no further than these tantalizing Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar. Imagine perfectly crispy fries, golden and sizzling, topped with gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also brings that ultimate comfort food vibe to your game day spread.
Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team from the couch or hosting a small gathering, these loaded fries are the perfect shareable dish that guarantees to impress. They combine the crispy goodness of classic baked potatoes with the decadent toppings that everyone loves. Ready to score big with your guests? Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar!
Ingredients
- 4 sizeable russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup crumbled cooked bacon
- ¼ cup jalapeños (sliced, optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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- Rinse the russet potatoes thoroughly, then cut them into fries of uniform thickness (about 1/4 inch). Keeping the skins on adds additional flavor and texture.
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine the potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, tossing until they are completely coated.
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- Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on the lined baking sheet, ensuring there is enough space between them for proper baking.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they achieve a golden brown and crispy texture.
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- Once the fries are finished baking, take them out of the oven and generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Put them back in the oven for an extra 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- Take the loaded fries out of the oven and top with dollops of sour cream, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and sliced jalapeños if you choose.
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- Serve immediately while hot and savor this ultimate Game Day treat with your family and friends!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Frozen French Fries: 1 bag (your choice of cut, crinkle or straight)
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded, preferably sharp
- Bacon: 6-8 strips, cooked and crumbled
- Sour Cream: 1 cup, for drizzling or serving
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup, thinly sliced for garnish
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for added flavor)
- Jalapeños: 1/2 cup, sliced (optional, for heat)
Feel free to customize toppings based on your preferences!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for getting those fries crispy and delicious.
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Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel 4 large russet potatoes. Cut them into thin fry shapes, approximately 1/4 inch thick. For extra crispiness, you can soak the cut fries in water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. After soaking, drain and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
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Season the Fries: In a large bowl, toss the dried potato fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and season generously with salt and pepper. Ensure all fries are evenly coated for optimal flavor.
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Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread the fries in a single layer, ensuring they have some space between each piece for better airflow. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than baking.
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First Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, flip the fries with a spatula for even cooking. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
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Add the Cheese and Toppings: Once the fries are baked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. You can also add cooked crumbled bacon or any smoked sausage pieces at this stage for extra flavor.
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Second Bake: Return the loaded fries to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
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Final Touches: Once done, remove the fries from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped green onions, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce. Serve immediately while they’re hot and cheesy!
Enjoy your Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar as a delicious snack or side dish!
Serving Suggestions
Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar make for an irresistible appetizer or main dish perfect for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in while enjoying the game. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your fries experience:
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Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or spicy salsa on the side. These enhance flavor and allow guests to customize their experience.
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Garnishes: Sprinkle additional toppings like chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro over the fries just before serving. This adds color and freshness to the dish.
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Pair with Proteins: Serve alongside grilled chicken, spicy buffalo wings, or crispy fish bites. The savory fries complement a range of proteins, making for a complete meal.
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Salad on the Side: Balance the richness of the loaded fries by serving with a light side salad, such as a Caesar or a mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette.
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Garnish with Avocado: Add slices of avocado or a dollop of guacamole to the top of your loaded fries for a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the cheese and toppings.
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Football Themed Plates: Get into the game day spirit by serving these loaded fries on football-themed plates or using football-shaped serving dishes to create an exciting atmosphere.
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Beverage Pairings: Pair your fries with refreshing beverages like ice-cold craft beer, soda, or even a tangy homemade lemonade to complement the savory flavors.
By following these serving suggestions, you can create an unforgettable Game Day experience that will have everyone cheering for more!
Conclusion
These Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for your next gathering or game day celebration. They combine the crispy goodness of baked potato fries with the rich flavors of melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and all your favorite toppings. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these fries are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste—add jalapeños for a kick, or swap out the bacon for a vegetarian option. Whip up a batch, gather your friends, and enjoy the deliciousness as the game unfolds. Get ready to dunk in your favorite sauce, and make every bite a touchdown!
