These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are a tasty treat! Crispy fries are topped with crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and melted cheese. Yum!
Perfect for sharing or just enjoying all by yourself—no judgment here! I love them as a fun snack while watching movies. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 🍟❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen French Fries: I often go for store-bought frozen fries for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own using fresh potatoes. Just cut them into strips, soak them in water to remove starch, then bake or fry until crispy.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a crunchy texture and smoky flavor. Turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter option, or try pancetta for a slightly different taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice! You can also mix it up with pepper jack for spice, or a blend of mozzarella and provolone for creaminess.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch gives a fresh taste, but store-bought works just fine. For a twist, try blue cheese dressing or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for added flavor.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley or chives for garnish. Fresh cilantro or green onions can also brighten things up if you prefer a different herb.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Fries?
To achieve those perfectly crispy fries, keep these tips in mind:
- Preheat the oven to the right temperature. A high heat ensures crispiness.
- Spread fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to sogginess.
- Flip the fries halfway through cooking for even browning and crispiness.
- If using homemade fries, let them cool slightly before baking, as this helps achieve a crunchy texture.
Following these tips will give you the best loaded bacon ranch French fries that everyone will love!
Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups frozen French fries (or homemade fries)
- 6 strips bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-monterey jack blend)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup diced green onions
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes in total, including prep and cooking time. You’ll need about 5 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking the fries. Plus, a few extra minutes to enjoy assembling these delicious toppings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) as per the French fries package instructions. This will ensure your fries get crispy!
2. Bake the Fries:
Spread the frozen fries evenly on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not crowded so they can cook evenly. Bake according to the package directions until golden brown and crispy, usually around 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through for even crispiness!
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the fries are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon strips until they are crispy. Once done, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. Once cool enough to handle, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
4. Assemble the Fries:
When the fries are cooked, transfer them to an oven-safe serving dish or just leave them on the baking sheet if you prefer. Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the hot fries.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Put the fries back into the oven for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and gooey. The smell by now is going to be amazing!
6. Add the Toppings:
Once your cheese is melted, remove the fries from the oven. Drizzle the ranch dressing generously over the top and sprinkle the chopped bacon pieces evenly across the fries.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley or chives. Sprinkle with a little salt and pepper to taste, and if you like, add diced green onions for a fresh twist. Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your tasty Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries!
These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries make for an irresistible snack or side dish that everyone will love, perfect for game days, movie nights, or just because! Enjoy! 🍟🎉
Can I Use Sweet Potato Fries Instead?
Absolutely! Sweet potato fries add a deliciously sweet twist to this dish. Just follow the same baking instructions, as cooking times might vary depending on the thickness of the fries.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten up this dish, consider using baked fries instead of fried, turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and a lighter ranch dressing or Greek yogurt mixed with herbs. You can also add more veggies on top, like diced tomatoes or jalapeños!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can easily substitute ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing, sour cream mixed with spices, or even a homemade vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftover Loaded Fries?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps keep the fries crispy.
