Description
Mexican-inspired baked cheese fries showcase crispy potato wedges loaded with melted queso and zesty toppings. Spicy jalapeños and cilantro elevate this easy side dish that satisfies savory cravings you’ll devour in minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Crumbled bacon
- Sour cream
- Ranch dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the oven to 425F (220C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring an even cooking surface.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly coat potato fries with olive oil and seasonings, creating a flavorful and uniform layer of spices.
- Arrange the seasoned fries in a single, uncrowded layer on the prepared baking sheet to guarantee maximum crispiness during roasting.
- Roast the fries in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping midway to achieve an evenly golden and crisp texture.
- After initial baking, generously sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the hot fries, creating a melty blanket of flavor.
- Return the cheese-topped fries to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the cheese to completely melt and develop a lightly bubbling surface.
- Elevate the dish with optional garnishes like freshly chopped green onions, crispy crumbled bacon, and a drizzle of tangy sour cream or zesty ranch dressing.
- Serve immediately while hot and cheese is still gooey, offering a delectable combination of crispy fries and melted cheese.
Notes
- Crisp-making secret involves using parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning of fries.
- Seasoning hack: Mix spices thoroughly with oil before coating fries to guarantee maximum flavor distribution.
- Cheese melting trick requires watching closely during final 5-7 minutes to prevent burning and achieve perfect gooey texture.
- Dietary adaptation options include using sweet potato fries for lower-carb version or dairy-free cheese for vegan alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg