These Simple Loaded Fries are the ultimate snack or casual meal! Crispy oven-baked fries are piled high with melted cheese, crispy bacon, fresh green onions, and a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for sharing with friends during game night, or as a comforting family dinner, these loaded fries are simple, satisfying, and irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Minimal ingredients, easy steps, and ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Swap ranch for your favorite sauce or add toppings like ground beef, chicken, or veggies.
- Kid-Friendly: Cheesy, flavorful, and fun to eat – everyone will love them!
- Crispy and Flavorful: Oven-baked fries stay crisp while the toppings add gooey, savory goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 16 oz frozen French fries (or homemade fries)
- 8–10 oz cheddar cheese, shredded (shredding yourself helps it melt evenly)
- 12 oz bacon, diced and cooked until crispy
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or substitute your favorite sauce)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: Dice raw bacon into 1-inch pieces. Cook in a pan until crispy, then drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Bake the Fries: Preheat the oven according to package instructions (typically 400°F). Spread fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake until golden and crispy.
- Prepare Toppings: While fries bake, shred the cheese and slice green onions.
- Layer the Fries: Once fries are done, lightly season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle on the shredded cheese, crispy bacon, and some green onions.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the loaded fries to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese melts.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Remove from oven, drizzle with ranch dressing, and top with remaining green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Loaded Fries
- Single Layer Fries: Make sure fries aren’t stacked too much to keep them crispy.
- Cheese Choice: Cheddar and Monterey Jack work perfectly; feel free to mix or use a 3-cheese blend.
- Extra Flavor: Experiment with toppings like cooked ground beef, rotisserie chicken, or diced veggies for a meal-sized option.
- Alternate Dressings: Try bleu cheese, chipotle ranch, or even homemade fry sauce for a twist.
Variations to Try
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Fries: Add shredded chicken with bacon, cheese, and ranch for a hearty meal.
- Pizza Fries: Top with marinara, mozzarella, pepperoni, and fresh basil.
- Taco Fries: Layer seasoned ground beef, cheddar, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and guacamole.
- Big Mac Fries: Add seasoned beef, cheddar, lettuce, pickles, and Big Mac sauce for a fast-food-inspired treat.
These Loaded Fries are a versatile snack or meal, perfect for game nights, casual dinners, or any time you crave cheesy, crispy goodness.