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I first encountered these loaded cheese fries at a local pub and immediately knew I had to recreate them at home. The key is getting the fries perfectly crispy and the cheese sauce silky smooth. It took some experimenting, but I finally perfected the recipe. The addition of fresh herbs really brightens up the dish and makes it look as good as it tastes.
Why I love this recipe
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it's pure comfort food that never fails to impress. The combination of crispy, salty fries with creamy cheese sauce is already amazing, but the addition of bacon takes it to another level. I love how the fresh herbs add color and freshness to balance out the richness. It's also incredibly versatile - you can customize the cheese blend or toppings to make it your own.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
- Russet Potatoes: Cut into uniform 1/4-inch strips
- Sharp Cheddar: Freshly grated for smooth melting
- Bacon: Cooked until crispy and crumbled
- Heavy Cream: Heated but not boiled
- Fresh Chives: Finely chopped for garnish
Let's Make These Together
- Prep the Potatoes
- Cut potatoes into even strips and soak in cold water to remove excess starch.
- Cook the Bacon
- Fry bacon until crispy, then crumble into bits. Save some bacon fat for extra flavor if desired.
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- Heat cream gently, then gradually stir in freshly grated cheese until smooth and velvety.
- Fry to Perfection
- Double-fry the potatoes at different temperatures for the ultimate crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
- Final Assembly
- Layer the crispy fries, pour over warm cheese sauce, sprinkle with bacon and fresh herbs.
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Switch Things Up
I discovered that using a mix of different cheeses really elevates the sauce. Sometimes I'll blend sharp cheddar with a bit of gruyere for extra depth. Also, double-frying the potatoes at different temperatures makes them extra crispy - just like the best restaurants do it.
Perfect Pairings
These loaded cheese fries pair perfectly with a cold craft beer or lemonade. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh garden salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. They also make a great side dish for grilled burgers or sandwiches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving.
- → What's the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar works best, but you can experiment with cheese blends for different flavors.
- → Can I bake the fries instead?
Yes, though they won't be quite as crispy. Bake at 425°F for about 30-35 minutes.
- → How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?
Gradually add cheese to warm cream while constantly stirring, and avoid high heat.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon or use plant-based alternatives.
Conclusion
These loaded cheese fries are the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy fries, creamy cheese sauce, and savory bacon. Perfect for sharing, they're sure to be a hit at any gathering. The combination of textures and flavors creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love.