Introduction
Game day gatherings are all about indulging in delicious flavors and sharing great moments with friends and family. If you’re looking to elevate your snack game, these Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries are the perfect addition to your spread! With their crispy, golden exterior and overflowing toppings, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve that ultimate crunch without the guilt of deep frying. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a plateful of mouthwatering fries topped with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and all your favorite fixings. Ideal for watching the big game or enjoying a cozy movie night at home, these fries are loaded with flavors that both children and adults will crave.
Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself, this quick and easy recipe will have everyone reaching for more. So, prepare your taste buds for a cheesy, savory experience that will make any gathering a hit! Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon (about 6 slices)
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Jalapeño slices (optional for heat)
Instructions
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- Prep the Potatoes: Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into thin strips, about ½ inch thick, to make your fries.
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- Soak the Fries: Place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch and ensures a crispier fry.
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- Dry and Season: After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry using paper towels. In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are well coated.
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- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once preheated, add the seasoned fries to the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time.
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- Add Cheese and Bacon: When the fries are golden and crispy, open the air fryer and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over the fries. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- Serve with Toppings: Carefully remove the loaded fries from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter. Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, and jalapeño slices if using.
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- Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy your delicious loaded cheesy bacon fries, perfect for game day or any gathering!
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Frozen French Fries: Choose your favorite brand; crinkle-cut or steak fries work well.
- Bacon: 5-6 strips of thick-cut bacon for a savory crunch.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: About 1.5 cups for that gooey, melty goodness.
- Cream Cheese: 4 oz for a creamy texture that balances the dish.
- Green Onions: 2-3, chopped for a fresh garnish and a pop of color.
- Sour Cream: Optional, for drizzling or dolloping on top.
- Spices: Salt, pepper, and paprika for enhancing the flavor. Optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Feel free to customize with additional toppings like jalapeños, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce!
Baking Process
- Prep Your Fries:
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Start with your choice of frozen fries (steak fries, crinkle-cut, or shoestring). For extra crunch, toss them in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step is optional but highly recommended for flavor!
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Preheat the Air Fryer:
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Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures your fries will cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
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Air Fry the Fries:
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Once preheated, place the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may have to cook them in batches. Air fry for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them to achieve your desired crispiness.
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Prepare the Toppings:
- While the fries are cooking, cook your bacon. Chop it into small pieces and sauté it in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels.
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Grate your choice of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) and gather any additional toppings you plan to add, such as green onions and sour cream.
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Add Cheese and Toppings:
- When the fries are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and return them to a large bowl or spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese over the fries, followed by the cooked bacon bits. If you want the cheese gooey and melty, return the loaded fries to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes at 400°F.
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Finishing Touches:
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Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish your loaded fries with chopped green onions and any other toppings you love (avocado, jalapeños, or a drizzle of ranch dressing can be great additions).
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries to a serving platter or individual bowls. Serve immediately, while hot and cheesy, alongside your favorite dipping sauces, like ketchup or ranch. Enjoy your game day treat!
This simple process allows you to whip up a delicious and indulgent snack in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for sharing during game day celebrations with family and friends!
Serving Suggestions
To truly elevate your Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries experience, consider pairing them with some delicious sides and dips that will complement the bold flavors of the fries. Here are a few serving suggestions for your game day spread:
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Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavor. Classic options like ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, or tangy barbecue sauce can add a delightful kick. Try a homemade garlic aioli or chipotle dipping sauce for something extra special.
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Fresh Greens: Balance the richness of the fries with a light salad. A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette will add freshness and crunch to your meal.
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Veggie Platter: Serve a colorful veggie platter with crunchy carrots, celery sticks, and cherry tomatoes. They’re quick to prepare and provide a healthful contrast to the cheesy indulgence of the fries.
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Sliders or Mini Burgers: For a heartier game day feast, pair your loaded fries with mini burgers or sliders. They complement the flavors and are perfect for sharing with friends and family during the big game.
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Wings: No game day spread is complete without chicken wings. Choose your favorite flavor – whether it’s classic buffalo, sweet chili, or garlic parmesan – to create a mouthwatering combination that everyone will love.
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Drinks: Don’t forget the beverages! Serve up some refreshing drinks like iced teas, lemonades, or a selection of beers to keep everyone cool and hydrated.
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Desserts: End the meal on a sweet note with some bite-sized desserts. Mini brownies, chocolate chip cookies, or even a fruit platter can cleanse the palate after those savory fries.
With these serving suggestions, your Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries will not only be a star attraction but also part of a delightful game day feast that keeps everyone coming back for more! Enjoy!
Conclusion
Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries are the perfect game day treat that will undoubtedly score big with your friends and family. With just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can whip up this indulgent dish in the air fryer, maximizing flavor while minimizing mess. The crispy fries, melty cheese, and savory bacon come together to create a mouthwatering experience that’s ideal for watching your favorite teams battle it out.
Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your preferences; add jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swap in your favorite cheese varieties for a unique twist. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just looking for a delicious snack, these Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries are sure to be a hit. So grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delightful dish—it’s a surefire way to elevate any occasion!
