Baked Cheese Fries Recipe

If you’re craving a cheesy snack that doesn’t require deep-frying, look no further than Baked Cheese Fries! These delightful fries are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, generously topped with melted cheese. They’re perfect for game days, family movie nights, or as a scrumptious side at your next barbecue. With a healthier twist, these oven-baked fries make indulging guilt-free while delivering a cheesy, delicious treat that everyone will adore.

Baked Cheese Fries are more than just a delicious snack; they offer a wonderful way to enjoy the classic flavor of traditional cheese fries without the extra grease involved in frying. By baking them, you not only create a healthier option but also simplify the cooking process! These fries can be tailored with a variety of toppings and cheeses, making them suitable for any taste preference or occasion. Better yet, they’re a hit with crowds—crispy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, they will satisfy your cravings with every single bite!

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, cut into wedges or sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, bacon bits, sour cream, jalapeños

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into wedges or sticks, then toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until they’re well coated.
3. Bake the Fries: Spread the potato wedges out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overlapping. Bake them for about 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy; remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
4. Add Cheese: Take the fries out of the oven and sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. Pop them back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes or so, until the cheese is deliciously melted and bubbling.
5. Serve: Once they’re done, remove from the oven and feel free to add any optional toppings like chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, or jalapeños. They’re best served immediately alongside sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce!

While Baked Cheese Fries are undoubtedly best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until they’re hot and the cheese is melty again, ensuring they keep their crispiness. However, freezing is not advisable, as the delightful texture of the fries and melted cheese may turn soggy upon thawing and reheating.

1. Soggy Fries: To keep your fries crispy, make sure to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. It’s important for air to circulate around each piece for that perfect crunch.
2. Underseasoned Fries: Before tossing, give your seasoning mix a taste and feel free to adjust it to your liking for extra flavor.
3. Cheese Burning: Add the cheese toward the end of cooking to avoid it from burning and becoming unappetizing.
4. Uneven Cooking: Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to promote even cooking throughout.
5. Sticking to the Pan: Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will prevent your fries from sticking to the pan without the need for extra oil.

1. Can I use frozen fries?
   Absolutely! Frozen fries can be a great time-saver. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions before adding cheese.
2. What other cheeses can I use?
   Feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as pepper jack for some heat, or a rich blend of Parmesan for added flavor depth.
3. Can I add other spices?
   Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle in some chili powder, cumin, or onion powder to explore new flavor combinations.
4. How can I make these fries crisper?
   For an even crispier bite, you can increase the oven temperature or carefully use the broil setting in the last few minutes of baking.
5. Are these fries gluten-free?
   Yes, these fries are naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to verify the labels on any additional toppings or sauces you might choose to add.