These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are a tasty treat that’s hard to resist! Crispy fries get smothered in creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon bits, and gooey cheese for a flavor explosion.
Who doesn’t love bacon and cheese? When I make these, I can never stop at just one! They’re perfect for game nights or just when you crave something cheesy and delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen French Fries: Crinkle-cut fries are fantastic because they hold toppings well. However, you can use steak fries, shoestring fries, or even sweet potato fries for a different flavor. Make sure your fries are crispy for the best texture!
Bacon: Classic crispy bacon adds great flavor and crunch. If you prefer a lighter option or are vegetarian, use turkey bacon or even crumbled veggie bacon to mimic the taste. You could even try some crispy fried mushrooms for a unique twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully and gives a sharp taste. Feel free to substitute with shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. If you’re vegan, look for dairy-free cheese alternatives that melt well.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch dressing is creamy and convenient. For a healthier twist, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with herbs. You can also try other dressings like blue cheese or barbecue sauce for a different flavor.
Chives or Green Onions: Fresh chives or green onions add a nice touch of color and mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, parsley works as a fresh garnish too!
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Fries?
Crispy fries make all the difference in this recipe. To ensure your fries come out perfectly crisp, follow these steps:
- Spread frozen fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Flip the fries halfway through baking. This ensures even cooking and a uniform crispiness.
- Keep an eye on them as they finish baking; you want them golden brown but not burnt!
After baking, let them cool for a minute before adding cheese and toppings. This time helps maintain that crunch you love!
Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (16 oz) bag frozen crinkle-cut french fries
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30-35 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep (cooking the bacon and setting everything up), and the baking time for the fries takes about 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to serve them hot for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the frozen french fries package. It’s usually set to around 425°F (220°C). This helps make sure your fries get crispy.
2. Bake the Fries:
Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly. Bake them until they are golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking for that perfect crunch!
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the fries are baking, take a skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, place the bacon on paper towels to drain the grease and then crumble it into small pieces.
4. Add Cheese to the Fries:
When the fries are nice and crispy, carefully take the baking sheet out of the oven. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot fries. This is where the magic happens!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Put the fries with cheese back into the oven. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Transfer the cheesy fries to a serving plate. Sprinkle the crispy bacon crumbles on top generously. Then, drizzle ranch dressing over the fries for that delicious flavor!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, add some chopped fresh chives or green onions for a nice touch of color and flavor. Serve immediately while they’re hot and cheesy. Enjoy your loaded bacon ranch french fries with friends or family!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Fries?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, cut them into uniform strips, toss with oil, and season with salt before baking. Bake at 425°F for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon or substitute with plant-based bacon or crispy fried onions for crunch. You could also add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor without the meat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain some crispiness.
Can I Substitute the Ranch Dressing?
Definitely! If ranch isn’t your thing, you can use blue cheese dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a different flavor profile. The key is to find a sauce that complements the cheese and bacon!
