These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are a tasty treat! Crispy fries are topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and flavorful ranch dressing. Yum!
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but dig in right away. They’re perfect for sharing, but I usually end up eating more than my fair share! 🤭
They’re super easy to whip up, and they make a great snack for movie nights. Just bake the fries, add toppings, and enjoy! Who can resist that cheesy goodness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
French Fries: Frozen fries are super convenient, but fresh-cut fries provide a lovely homemade touch. Use russet potatoes for a classic fry. If you’re in a hurry, opt for crinkle-cut or steak fries for extra texture!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds richness, but feel free to use cheese sauce for a gooey texture. Substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a kick. For dairy-free options, try vegan cheese alternatives!
Bacon: Crispy bacon is a must, but turkey bacon or even plant-based bacon can work for a lighter option. You can also skip it entirely for a vegetarian version—just add more toppings like jalapeños or avocado!
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is easy, but homemade ranch can elevate your dish. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan ranch dressing or a zesty yogurt dressing as a delightful alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Fries?
Getting crispy fries can be a bit tricky, but it’s all about the cooking method. For frozen fries, follow package directions closely for the best outcome. If using fresh potatoes, here’s how to fry them right:
- Cut potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
- Soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps them crisp up.
- Dry the potatoes thoroughly before frying; moisture can make them soggy.
- Fry in batches if necessary, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
For baked fries, toss them with oil and spices before cooking. Bake at a high temperature (around 425°F / 220°C) for crispiness, flipping halfway through. Enjoy your crunchy creation!
Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fries:
- 4 cups frozen French fries (or fresh-cut fries)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar cheese sauce)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Cooking oil (if using fresh fries)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack takes about 15 minutes of active cooking time plus additional time if frying fresh-cut fries. Expect about 25-30 minutes in total, allowing for prep, cooking, and assembling the tasty toppings. Just the right amount of time for a mouthwatering treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
If you’re using frozen fries, just cook them according to the package instructions until they’re crispy. Baking or air-frying works wonderfully! If you’re using fresh-cut fries, heat oil in a deep fryer or a pan over medium-high heat. Fry until the potatoes are golden and crispy, then drain on paper towels. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt while they’re hot!
2. Cook the Bacon:
As the fries are cooking, take your bacon slices and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until nice and crispy. Once they’re done, remove them from the skillet and let them drain on paper towels. After they cool for a little bit, crumble them into small, delectable pieces.
3. Assemble the Loaded Fries:
Once your fries are looking delicious, place them on a large plate or an oven-safe platter. Evenly sprinkle your shredded cheddar cheese over the top or drizzle melted cheese sauce for that extra gooeyness!
4. Melt the Cheese:
If you want that beautifully melted cheese, pop the fries under the broiler or in a hot oven (around 350°F / 175°C) for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure the cheese doesn’t burn. It should be bubbly and inviting!
5. Add Toppings:
Once the cheese is melted to perfection, take the fries out of the oven. Immediately sprinkle the crumbled bacon all over the cheesy fries and drizzle ranch dressing as your finishing touch.
6. Garnish and Serve:
For a pop of color and a bit of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley or chives on top. Serve these warm and crispy fries right away, and enjoy every bite with a side of extra ranch for dipping!
This easy recipe for Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries brings a fun and indulgent twist to your snack game—perfect for parties, game nights, or just because you deserve a treat!
Can I Use Sweet Potato Fries Instead?
Absolutely! Sweet potato fries will add a nice sweetness that pairs well with the savory toppings. Just adjust the cooking time as sweet potato fries may require a bit longer to become crispy.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
For a healthier version, you can use baked fries instead of fried, turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon, and light ranch dressing. Adding more veggies like jalapeños or diced tomatoes can also boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the fries and bacon ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the fries and bacon, assemble with cheese and ranch, then enjoy!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to crisp them up again. You might want to add a little extra cheese and ranch for a fresh taste!