These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are a tasty treat! Crispy fries are topped with gooey cheese, crunchy bacon bits, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Yum!
Honestly, who can resist this delicious combo? It’s perfect for sharing, or you know, for treating yourself after a long day. I definitely support that second option! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
French Fries: You can use frozen fries for convenience, but if you prefer fresh, go for russet potatoes. Slice them into sticks or wedges, and make sure to rinse and dry well for extra crispiness. Sweet potato fries can also add a fun twist!
Bacon: While regular bacon is delicious, turkey bacon or veggie bacon are great alternatives for a lighter option. Don’t forget to cook until crispy for that nice crunch!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add an extra kick. Vegan cheese options are also available if you want a dairy-free version.
Ranch Dressing: If you’re not a fan of ranch, try blue cheese dressing or even a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get My Fries Perfectly Crisp?
Crispy fries are key in this recipe! Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- If using frozen fries, follow the package instructions but consider increasing the cooking time slightly for added crunch.
- If using fresh potatoes, cutting them evenly helps them cook at the same rate. Don’t skip rinsing to remove excess starch, as this promotes crispiness.
- Heat your oil to the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) if frying. Test with a small piece; it should sizzle on contact!
- Don’t overcrowd the frying oil; it lowers the temperature and can lead to soggy fries. Fry in batches if necessary.
Using the oven for crispy fries? Baste them lightly in oil and spread them in a single layer. Flip halfway through baking for even browning!
Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups frozen French fries (or fresh-cut fries)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying or baking, if using fresh fries)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for prep time and an additional 20-30 minutes for cooking, depending on whether you’re using frozen or fresh fries. All in all, you can have these tasty Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries ready to enjoy in about 30 to 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fries:
Start by cooking your French fries. If you’re using frozen fries, just follow the instructions on the package for perfect results. If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, wash, peel (if desired), and cut them into fry shapes. Remember to rinse them to remove excess starch and dry them well with a towel. Then, fry or bake them until they’re crispy, seasoning with salt and pepper while they’re still hot.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While the fries are cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook them until they’re nice and crispy, usually about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, carefully remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to absorb any excess grease. After it cools down, chop the bacon into small bits.
3. Assemble the Fries:
Take your cooked fries and spread them out on a plate or in a large serving dish. Make sure they’re evenly arranged to hold all the delicious toppings!
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the hot fries. The heat from the fries will help the cheese melt perfectly.
5. Add Bacon:
Now it’s time for the bacon! Scatter your chopped crispy bacon over the cheesy fries, making sure every fry gets a taste of that savory goodness.
6. Drizzle Ranch:
Grab your ranch dressing and drizzle it all over the fries, cheese, and bacon. Feel free to use as much or as little as you like!
7. Garnish:
If you want to give your fries a bit of color and freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top. It’s optional but definitely adds a nice touch!
8. Serve Immediately:
Dig into your Loaded Bacon Ranch Fries while they’re hot and the cheese is melty. Enjoy this delicious snack with friends or family, or treat yourself to a comforting indulgence!
This dish is not only perfect for sharing but also makes a fantastic snack for game day or movie night. Enjoy! 🍟🥓
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick. Alternatively, vegan cheese options are available if you’re looking for something dairy-free.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make these Loaded Bacon Ranch Fries a bit healthier, consider using sweet potato fries instead of regular fries. You can also reduce the amount of cheese and bacon, or replace bacon with turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.
What Should I Do with Leftover Fries?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven to keep them crispy, or use a microwave, but know that they may lose some crunch.
Can I Make the Fries in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Air fryers are a great option for making fries crispy with less oil. Cook the frozen fries in the air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking. Then, top them just like in the recipe!