Hey y'all! If you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and downright irresistible, these Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch will hit the spot. They’re perfect for movie marathons, game day gatherings, or anytime you just want a crowd-pleasing snack that's loaded (pun intended!) with flavor. Ready to make your taste buds dance? Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch Recipe
- Super easy to whip up with simple, accessible ingredients.
- Packed with melty cheese, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch—each bite is a flavor explosion.
- Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a solo comfort food treat.
- Customizable: add your favorite toppings for endless variety.
- A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
- 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen French fries (about 800g)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Directions: How to Make Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
Step 1: Bake the Fries
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the frozen fries out in an even layer. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 2: Add Cheese and Bacon
Remove the fries from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot fries, followed by the crumbled bacon. Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 3: Drizzle with Ranch & Garnish
Take the loaded fries out of the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with ranch dressing, then sprinkle with sliced green onions, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using.
Notes for the Best Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
- For crispier fries, bake them directly on the oven rack or use a wire rack on your baking sheet.
- Shred your own cheese for better melt and flavor—pre-shredded can have anti-caking agents.
- Check out this guide to making perfect French fries for extra tips.
Variations: Creative Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce before serving.
- Vegetarian: Swap bacon for smoked paprika-roasted chickpeas or crispy fried onions.
- BBQ Style: Drizzle with barbecue sauce and use pepper jack cheese for a smoky twist.
Required Equipment for Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven mitts
- Sharp knife (for slicing onions and bacon)
- Mixing bowl (if you want to toss fries with spices)
Storage Instructions for Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
Store leftover loaded fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 400°F (205°C) for 8-10 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as fries may become soggy.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
- Serve as a fun appetizer alongside sliders or chicken wings.
- Pair with a crisp beer, lemonade, or an ice-cold cola.
- Add a fresh salad or veggie sticks for a balanced meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
- Use thick-cut fries for a sturdier base that holds up to toppings.
- Let fries cool just a minute after baking before adding cheese, so it melts perfectly instead of sliding off.
- Try homemade ranch for an extra fresh flavor; see how at Food Network.
FAQ: All About Loaded Fries with Cheese, Bacon & Ranch
- Can I use homemade fries instead of frozen?
- Absolutely! Freshly fried or baked homemade fries take this recipe to the next level—just make sure they're crisp.
- What's the best cheese for loaded fries?
- Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharp flavor, but feel free to try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free frozen fries and double-check your ranch dressing’s label for gluten-containing ingredients. For more on gluten-free eating, visit Celiac Disease Foundation.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs frozen French fries
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ⅓ cup ranch dressing
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the frozen French fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
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2Bake the fries according to package instructions, about 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
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3While the fries are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
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4Remove the fries from the oven and sprinkle evenly with shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, black pepper, and garlic powder.
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5Return the fries to the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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6Drizzle the hot loaded fries with ranch dressing and garnish with sliced green onions and parsley. Serve immediately.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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