Introduction
Game day gatherings are all about camaraderie, competition, and, of course, incredible food! If you’re looking to impress your friends and family with a crowd-pleasing snack that is as delicious as it is easy to prepare, then look no further than these Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries. This recipe takes the classic comfort food to a whole new level, combining crispy fries, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon for an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for more.
What makes this dish even better is that it can be whipped up in just 30 minutes using your trusty air fryer. This means less time in the kitchen and more time cheering for your favorite team! Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying the big game at home, these Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries are the perfect finger food to keep the energy high and the spirits even higher. So grab your ingredients, preheat that air fryer, and let’s get started on this mouthwatering game day delight that is sure to score big!
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon (approximately 6 slices)
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Jalapeño slices (optional for spice)
Instructions
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- Prep the Potatoes: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the russet potatoes. Slice them into thin strips, roughly ½ inch thick, to create your fries.
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- Soak the Fries: Submerge the sliced fries in a large bowl filled with cold water and allow them to soak for around 10 minutes. This step is essential for eliminating excess starch and achieving a crispier fry.
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- Dry and Season: After soaking, drain the fries and gently dry them with paper towels. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the dried fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, tossing until they are evenly coated.
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- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Once it’s ready, arrange the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in several batches). Air fry for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking process.
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- Add Cheese and Bacon: When the fries reach a golden-brown and crispy texture, carefully open the air fryer and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over them evenly. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
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- Serve with Toppings: Gently take the loaded fries out of the air fryer and place them on a serving dish. Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, and jalapeño slices if desired.
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- Enjoy: Dive into your delectable loaded cheesy bacon fries, ideal for game day or any social gathering!
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Frozen French Fries: 1 lb (choose your favorite shape: crinkle cut, shoestring, or steak fries)
- Bacon: 6-8 slices, cooked and crumbled (or use pre-cooked bacon for convenience)
- Shredded Cheese: 2 cups (a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack or your preferred cheese)
- Green Onions: 2-3, sliced for garnish
- Sour Cream: 1 cup, for drizzling on top (optional)
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking Spray: To coat the fries for extra crispiness
Feel free to customize your Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries with additional toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or avocado to make it even more delicious!
Baking Process
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Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. You’ll need frozen French fries, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon (chopped), green onions (sliced), and your favorite dipping sauces (like ranch or sour cream). For added flavor, consider seasoning your fries with a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika.
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Air Fryer Setup: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the fries cook evenly and become crispy. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply let it run for about 5 minutes at the desired temperature.
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Cook the Fries: Place the frozen fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
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Add the Cheese and Bacon: Once the fries are perfectly crispy, remove them from the air fryer and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Then, add the chopped bacon, spreading it out so every fry gets a taste. Return the loaded fries to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the loaded fries from the air fryer. Top with fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor. If desired, you can also drizzle some ranch or sour cream over the top for a delicious finishing touch.
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Enjoy: Serve your loaded cheesy bacon fries immediately while they are still hot and melty. Gather your friends and family around for a fantastic game day snack that’s sure to be a hit!
This baking process is quick, easy, and delivers mouth-watering results right from your air fryer, making it perfect for any game day celebration. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!
Serving Suggestions
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Dipping Sauces: Pair your Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries with a variety of dipping sauces to elevate the flavor profile. Consider options like ranch dressing, spicy ketchup, creamy garlic aioli, or zesty barbecue sauce for a delicious twist.
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing your fries with freshly chopped chives or parsley. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to the rich, cheesy dish.
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Serve with a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the fries by serving them alongside a light side salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast.
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Pair with Beverages: For a perfect game day spread, pair your Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries with refreshing beverages. Consider serving ice-cold beers, classic cola, or homemade lemonade to keep the festivities lively.
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Top with Additional Proteins: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or pulled pork on top of the fries. This adds more substance and makes for a satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing.
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Make it a Meal: Transform your Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries into a main course by serving them in a bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of jalapeños for a kick. This variation can be great for casual dining or tailgating.
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Gourmet Touch: For a gourmet flair, sprinkle some truffle oil over the finished fries or use a mix of gourmet cheeses like gouda and cheddar for a more sophisticated flavor.
Enjoy customizing your Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries to fit your taste and occasion, making them the ultimate game day treat!
Conclusion
Indulging in Loaded Cheesy Bacon Fries is a surefire way to elevate your game day experience. With their crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and savory bacon bits, these fries are not just a snack; they’re a celebration of flavor! The air fryer makes the preparation quick and easy, allowing you to whip up this crowd-pleaser in just 30 minutes.
Feel free to customize your toppings with jalapeños, sour cream, or green onions to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting friends for a sports event or just enjoying a cozy night in, these fries are sure to impress and satisfy. So grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to serve up a dish that’s packed with cheesy, bacony goodness. Happy cooking!
