Super Bowl Cheese Fries

Last Super Bowl, my friend Sarah brought over a tray of cheese fries that completely derailed my diet plans. The way the beef bacon added this smoky depth I'd never experienced with regular bacon made me pause mid-conversation. We ended up hovering around that platter through three quarters of the game, barely noticing who was winning. Sometimes the best moments happen when you're not even trying to create them.

I've since made these for countless gatherings and they're always the first thing to vanish. My brother-in-law actually asked for the recipe before he'd even finished his first serving. There's something about loaded fries that brings people together in the best way possible, everyone reaching in for that perfect cheese-covered bite.

Ingredients

• 1 kg frozen French fries or homemade potato fries: The foundation of everything good, frozen works beautifully but fresh cut potatoes take it to another level
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Helps achieve that restaurant style crispy exterior we all crave
• 200 g beef bacon chopped: The secret ingredient that adds smoky depth without the pork flavor
• 200 g sharp cheddar cheese shredded: Sharp cheddar provides that perfect tangy contrast to rich beef bacon
• 2 spring onions thinly sliced: Fresh onion cut through all the heavy richness beautifully
• 60 ml sour cream optional: A cool creamy element that balances the heat and salt
• 1 jalapeño sliced optional: For those who want a little kick to cut through the cheese
• 1/2 tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that complements the beef bacon perfectly
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: The umami booster that makes everything taste more complete
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all these bold flavors together

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

Get that oven cranking at 220°C 425°F because high heat equals maximum crispiness

Prep the fries:

Spread your fries on a baking sheet then drizzle with oil and season with paprika garlic powder salt and pepper tossing until every piece is coated

Bake to golden perfection:

Slide them in for 2530 minutes flipping halfway through until theyre golden and crispy enough to make that satisfying crunch sound

Crisp the beef bacon:

While fries work their magic cook chopped beef bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 57 minutes until crispy then drain on paper towels

Load em up:

Transfer those beautiful crispy fries to an ovenproof dish then shower them with shredded cheddar and the crispy beef bacon

Melt it all together:

Return to the oven for 35 minutes just until the cheese transforms into that irresistible melted blanket we all love

Finish with fresh elements:

Top immediately with sliced spring onions and jalapeño if using then serve with sour cream on the side

Pin This

These fries have become my go-to for any celebration but they're also perfect for a random Tuesday when you need something special. Last week I made them just for myself and didn't share a single bite which I'm not proud of but I'm also not sorry. Sometimes you need that kind of comfort food moment all to yourself.

Making It Your Own

I've discovered that pepper jack cheese works beautifully if you want extra heat without adding more jalapeños. The way it melts and mingles with the beef bacon creates this whole new flavor profile that's become a favorite in my house. Sometimes I'll add a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing right at the end because why not commit fully to the indulgence.

Perfecting The Fries

Frozen fries work great here but if you have time to make fresh cut potatoes soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven. The difference is subtle but noticeable especially for people who take their fries seriously.

Serving Strategy

I like to set up a little toppings station on the side so everyone can customize their portion. It keeps things fun and interactive plus people feel more involved in their food creation process.

• Keep the sour cream cold until the very last second for the best temperature contrast
• Have extra napkins ready because these can get gloriously messy
• Consider serving with forks because melted cheese on fingers is no joke

Pin This

These Super Bowl cheese fries are more than just game day food, they're a conversation starter and a memory maker. Hope they bring as much joy to your table as they've brought to mine.

Questions & Answers

→ How can I make the fries extra crispy?

For crispier fries, toss them well in vegetable oil and bake at a high temperature, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, sharp cheddar works well, but pepper jack or a blend of cheeses can add a spicy or creamy twist.

→ Is there a substitute for beef bacon?

Turkey bacon or vegetarian alternatives can be used, or omitted entirely for a different flavor profile.

→ What seasoning enhances the flavor of these fries?

Paprika and garlic powder provide a smoky and savory base, while salt and pepper balance the taste.

→ How should I serve these fries for best taste?

Serve immediately after baking while the cheese is melted and hot, garnished with fresh spring onions and optional jalapeño for a fresh bite.

→ Can I prepare fries from scratch instead of using frozen?

Absolutely, homemade potato fries can be used and baked following the same seasoning and baking steps for delicious results.