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This cheesy bacon loaded waffle fries recipe brings together crispy baked fries with melty cheddar, savory bacon, fresh green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a flavor-packed snack or side dish. The combination of textures and rich toppings turns simple fries into an irresistible treat perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
I made this recipe for a weekend game day, and it quickly became a favorite—everyone loved dipping into the cheesy, bacon-loaded goodness.
Ingredients
- Sixteen ounces of frozen french fries: choose waffle fries for extra crisp texture and their ability to hold toppings well
- Eight to ten ounces block of cheddar cheese: shredding your own ensures the cheese melts better and avoids additives found in pre-shredded varieties
- Twelve ounces of bacon, diced: select thick-cut bacon for a meatier bite and crisp it well to contrast the cheese
- Quarter cup of ranch dressing: pick your favorite brand or homemade for a creamy, tangy finish
- Two green onions: add freshness and a mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness
- Sea salt and black pepper: season just enough to enhance flavors without overpowering since bacon and cheese are salty
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the Bacon:
- Dice raw bacon into approximately one-inch pieces. Cook them slowly in a pan over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess fat for perfect texture.
- Bake the Fries:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature listed on the frozen fries package, usually around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the fries evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid stacking to ensure crispiness. Bake according to package instructions until golden and crunchy.
- Prep the Toppings:
- While the fries bake, shred your cheddar cheese by hand for best melting results. Finely chop the green onions to sprinkle over the finished dish.
- Assemble and Melt:
- Once fries are baked, season lightly with salt and pepper. Then evenly layer shredded cheese, cooked bacon bits, and some green onions over the fries. Return to the oven just long enough for the cheese to fully melt and bubble.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the fries from the oven and drizzle with ranch dressing. Sprinkle remaining green onions on top. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.
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Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To revive the crispiness, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven rather than the microwave. This helps the cheese stay melty while bringing fries back to crisp.
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap bacon for turkey bacon or smoked sausage to vary the flavor. For cheese, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick. If you prefer a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheddar style cheese and vegan ranch dressing.
Serving suggestions
Pair these loaded fries with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. They also make a great side to burgers, grilled chicken, or enjoy as a hearty snack with cold beer or soda.
Pro Tips
- Toast your bacon slowly to render fat well and get crisp pieces
- Don’t overcrowd the fries on the baking sheet or they steam instead of crisp
- Add your green onions after melting cheese to keep their fresh crunch and bright flavor
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I ensure the fries stay crispy when baked?
Arrange fries in a single layer without overlapping to allow even heat circulation, which keeps them crisp.
- → What type of cheese works best for melting on these fries?
Sharp cheddar cheese is ideal for shredding and melts beautifully, providing rich flavor and a creamy texture.
- → How do I prepare bacon for the topping?
Dice raw bacon into small pieces and cook in a pan until crisp. Drain excess oil using paper towels before adding.
- → Can I substitute ranch dressing with something else?
Yes, alternatives like sour cream or blue cheese dressing can complement the flavors nicely.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor to the fries before baking?
Lightly seasoning fries with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper enhances the overall taste without overpowering the toppings.