Name: Texas Cheese Fries Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 bag frozen french fries (about 28 ounces); 3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or turkey bacon if preferred); 3 green onions, thinly sliced; Pickled jalapeños, sliced; Sour cream, for serving (optional); Ranch dressing, for dipping (optional)

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Introduction

Texas Cheese Fries are a deliciously indulgent snack or side that combines crispy fries with melted sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and spicy jalapeños. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings, this easy-to-make dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

A tray of loaded fries is shown with a base layer of golden brown fries topped with melted bright orange cheddar cheese that covers most of the fries unevenly. On top, there are scattered pieces of crispy brown bacon, green slices of jalapeño peppers, and chopped fresh green onions. White ranch dressing is drizzled over the dish in thin streaks, adding contrast to the colors. The tray is lined with parchment paper and set against a white marbled surface with two small white dishes filled with extra bacon and green onions around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 bag frozen french fries (about 28 ounces)
3/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
5 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled, or turkey bacon if preferred)
3 green onions (thinly sliced)
Pickled jalapeños (sliced)
Sour cream (for serving, optional)
Ranch dressing (for dipping, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the frozen fries in a single layer, then sprinkle with seasoned salt, tossing gently to coat evenly.
Step 2: Bake the fries according to the package directions until they are golden and crispy.
Step 3: Preheat the broiler and adjust the oven rack to the top position.
Step 4: Remove the baked fries from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over them.
Step 5: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Step 6: Remove the fries from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions and pickled jalapeños.
Step 7: Serve immediately. Optionally, drizzle with sour cream or serve with ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add fresh diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper before broiling.
Try mixing in pepper jack cheese along with cheddar for a spicier flavor.
Use turkey bacon for a leaner, lower-fat option without sacrificing flavor.
To keep fries crispy, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet during initial baking.

Storage

Store leftover Texas Cheese Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fries soggy.

How to Serve

A tray of crispy golden French fries forms the first layer, topped with melted bright orange cheddar cheese spread evenly over the fries. Scattered over the cheese are small pieces of crispy bacon and sliced green jalapenos, adding texture and vibrant color. Chopped green onions are sprinkled on top, along with thin streams of white sour cream drizzled across the fries. The tray is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by small white bowls containing extra bacon bits, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream with a white spoon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh-cut fries, but cooking times may vary. Make sure they are cooked and crispy before adding cheese and bacon under the broiler.

Can I prepare the fries ahead of time?

You can bake the fries ahead and store them separately. Add cheese, bacon, and toppings just before serving and broil briefly to melt the cheese.