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This cheesy bacon loaded waffle fries recipe turns simple frozen fries into a crowd-pleasing snack or side dish by layering crispy fries with melted cheddar, savory bacon, fresh green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. It’s comfort food that’s perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want something satisfying and shareable.
I made these for a family movie night, and everyone kept going back for more. Now they request this over traditional fries every time we have a game on TV.
Ingredients
- Frozen French Fries: about 16 ounces for the crisp base make sure to spread them out on the baking sheet
- Cheddar Cheese Block: 8 to 10 ounces shredding it yourself helps it melt evenly and taste fresher
- Bacon: 12 ounces diced and cooked until crisp for a smoky salty punch
- Ranch Dressing: a quarter cup for drizzling that adds creamy tang
- Green Onions: two stalks finely diced to brighten the flavor
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper: use sparingly since bacon and cheese add saltiness adjust to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Bacon:
- Dice the raw bacon into about one-inch pieces. Cook them in a pan over medium heat until crisp. Remove and place on paper towels to absorb the excess fat.
- Bake the Fries:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the frozen fries package, typically around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the fries evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure crispiness. Bake for the recommended time without overlapping.
- Prepare Toppings:
- While the fries bake, shred your cheddar cheese block and finely dice the green onions. Set aside.
- Assemble the Loaded Fries:
- Once the fries are golden and crispy, lightly season with a bit of sea salt and black pepper. Then, gradually layer on the shredded cheese, crispy bacon, and a portion of the green onions.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Return the loaded fries to the oven until the cheese melts fully and becomes gooey, usually about 5 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle ranch dressing over the top. Garnish with the remaining green onions for a fresh finish. Serve warm.
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My favorite part is the green onions because they add a fresh crisp pop that cuts through the richness. This recipe was a hit at my brother’s graduation party, and it’s become the unofficial party snack in our family.
Storage Tips
Leftover plain baked fries can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days and reheated in the oven to regain crispiness. Once loaded and topped with cheese and bacon, refrigeration is possible for a day but expect the fries to soften. Reheating in an oven is best to avoid sogginess.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder cheese that still melts well. Use turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative if you prefer a lighter or meat-free option. Ranch dressing can be replaced with sour cream or a creamy blue cheese dressing for a different tangy note.
Serving Suggestions
These loaded waffle fries are perfect as a hearty appetizer or side dish. Pair with burgers, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad to balance richness. For extra fun, turn this into a fully loaded platter by adding jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to spread the fries in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they get crispy.
- Do not skip crisping the bacon well since it adds essential texture and flavor contrast.
- Add ranch dressing right before serving to keep the fries from becoming soggy.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I keep the fries crispy when topping?
Bake fries in a single layer without overlapping to maximize crispiness before adding toppings. Return only briefly to melt cheese to avoid sogginess.
- → What cheese works best for melting on fries?
Sharp cheddar shredded freshly melts well and adds a robust flavor, complementing bacon and fries perfectly.
- → Can I prepare the bacon ahead of time?
Yes, cook and drain bacon pieces in advance, then store them in the fridge until ready to use to save prep time.
- → Is there a way to make this dish less salty?
Use minimal salt on fries since bacon, cheese, and ranch already contribute saltiness. Adjust seasoning carefully.
- → What is the best way to add ranch dressing?
Drizzle ranch dressing after removing fries from the oven to maintain its creamy texture and fresh flavor.