Loaded Cheese Beef Fries 

Loaded Cheese Beef Fries 🍟🧀

Crispy golden fries smothered in savory beef, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings—the ultimate game-day snack or indulgent meal!

Ingredients *(Serves 4-6)*

For the Fries:

• 1 lb (450g) frozen French fries (or homemade, cut thick)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt to taste

For the Beef Topping:

• ½ lb (225g) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp taco seasoning (or mix of cumin, chili powder, paprika)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp flour

• 1 cup milk

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

Toppings (Pick Your Favorites!):

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup chopped green onions

• ¼ cup pickled jalapeños

• ¼ cup diced tomatoes

• ¼ cup crispy bacon bits

• Fresh cilantro or parsley

Instructions

1. Bake the Fries:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Toss fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt.

3. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 mins, flipping halfway, until crispy.

2. Cook the Beef:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook onion until soft (~3 mins).

2. Add garlic and ground beef, breaking it up. Cook until browned (~5 mins).

3. Stir in taco seasoning, salt & pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 min (don’t let it brown).

3. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Simmer 2-3 mins until thickened.

4. Remove from heat, stir in cheddar cheese and mustard powder until melted. Season with salt & pepper.

4. Assemble & Serve:

1. Pile fries on a platter. Top with beef, cheese sauce, and toppings.

2. Serve immediately while hot and gooey!

🔥 Flavor Boosters:

✅ Spicy kick: Add hot sauce or cayenne to the cheese sauce.
✅ Tex-Mex style: Swap beef for chorizo and add guacamole.
✅ Breakfast version: Top with a fried egg and swap beef for sausage.

💡 Pro Tips:

✔ Extra crispy fries: Air-fry or double-fry homemade potatoes.
✔ Shortcut: Use canned cheese sauce or nacho cheese for speed.
✔ Make ahead: Prep beef & cheese sauce, then reheat when ready to serve.

This loaded, melty, savory masterpiece is guaranteed to disappear fast—perfect for sharing (or not)! 😋

Pair with: A cold beer or a creamy milkshake. 🍺🥤