Ingredients

2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick fries

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded

4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup chopped green onions

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups milk

4 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded (for cheese sauce)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Place the cut fries in a large bowl filled with cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to remove excess starch.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 3: Drain the fries and pat them completely dry with paper towels.

Step 4: In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 5: Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them.

Step 6: Bake for 20 minutes, then flip and bake for another 15-20 minutes until fries are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Test a fry for tenderness inside and crispiness outside by piercing it with a fork.

Step 8: Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Step 9: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.

Step 10: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.

Step 11: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring continuously, and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 12: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 13: Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 14: Once fries are baked, remove from oven and immediately pour the cheese sauce over them, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

Step 15: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.

Step 16: Remove from oven and top with crumbled bacon, sour cream, and chopped green onions.

Step 17: Serve the cheesy loaded fries immediately while hot and gooey.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, soak the fries longer and ensure they are dried thoroughly before baking.

Use different cheese blends like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor.

Swap sour cream for guacamole or a spicy aioli for varied toppings.

Make it vegetarian by omitting bacon and adding sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?

Yes, frozen fries can be used to save time. Bake them according to package instructions, then add cheese and toppings as directed.

How do I make the cheese sauce thicker?

If the cheese sauce is too thin, continue simmering it gently for a few more minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens. You can also add a bit more flour in the beginning to create a firmer roux.