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Take your french fries to new heights with this crowd-pleasing Loaded Bacon and Cheese Fries recipe. This satisfying comfort dish features crispy fries smothered in velvety cheese sauce and savory bacon crumbles - perfect for game day spreads or casual weekend gatherings.
This recipe has been carefully refined over many gatherings to achieve the perfect balance of textures and flavors, with special attention paid to the cheese sauce consistency.
Key Ingredients
- French fries: Select thick-cut style for best results
- Sharp cheddar: Grate fresh for smoothest melting
- Bacon: Thick-cut preferred for texture
- Whole milk: Essential for creamy sauce
- Scallions: For fresh garnish
- Sour cream: Full-fat recommended
- Butter: For sauce base
Preparation Method
- Preparing the Fries:
- Space evenly on baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding. Turn once during cooking. Bake until thoroughly crispy. Salt immediately after cooking.
- Making Cheese Sauce:
- Start with melted butter. Add flour to make roux. Incorporate milk slowly. Maintain constant stirring. Add cheese off heat.
- Cooking Bacon:
- Use unheated pan. Cook until crisp. Drain on paper towels. Break into pieces. Reserve some for topping.
- Building Layers:
- Begin with hot components. Pour sauce carefully. Space toppings well. Maintain quick pace. Serve hot.
- Finishing Touches:
- Choose heated platter. Build in layers. Top with garnishes. Offer extra toppings. Include utensils.
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This version emerged from extensive testing to capture authentic pub-style loaded fries.
Managing Heat
Heat management proves essential for optimal results. Keep cheese sauce gently warmed, ensure fries maintain maximum crispiness for topping support, and serve on warmed platters to extend ideal serving temperature.
Advance Preparation
While best fresh, certain elements can be prepared ahead. Bacon may be pre-cooked and crumbled, and cheese sauce base can be made early. Simply reheat sauce base gently and incorporate cheese just before serving.
Service Options
Present on large platters for casual settings. Consider individual portions for sports viewing. Create topping stations with extra cheese sauce, bacon bits and sliced scallions for customization.
Leftover Storage
Separate components before storing. Recrisp fries in oven before serving. Thin cheese sauce with warm milk when reheating for proper consistency.
Recipe Variations
Consider adding diced jalapeños for heat or fresh tomatoes for brightness. Top with pulled pork or homemade chili for heartier versions.
Common Solutions
For thick sauce, thin gradually with warm milk. For insufficiently crispy fries, extend baking time before adding toppings.
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This loaded fries recipe reliably draws praise at gatherings. The balanced combination of textures and flavors creates an irresistible party dish that consistently brings groups together over good food.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-made cheese sauce to save time?
- Definitely! Using store-bought cheese sauce is a quick alternative.
- → What cheese melts best for a smooth sauce?
- Go for medium or sharp cheddar for great melting. Just avoid pre-shredded cheese since it has additives that stop it from melting well.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
- You can prepare the cheese sauce beforehand, but wait to assemble and add the toppings until right before serving.
- → What kind of fries work for this recipe?
- Feel free to use any frozen fries you like, whether they're regular cut, crinkle cut, or even steak fries.
- → How do I keep the fries warm long enough for serving?
- They're best eaten hot, but you can keep them warm in a low oven for a short while.