Cheddar pickle fries are a fun and tasty twist on regular fries! Imagine crispy fries covered in melty cheddar cheese and topped with zesty pickles. Yum!
These little bites are great for snacking or sharing at a party! I mean, who doesn’t love cheese and pickles? It’s the perfect combo of crunch and flavor! 🥒🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for fries due to their starchiness, which gives a fluffy interior. If you’re short on russets, you can use Yukon Golds for a creamier texture, though they may not get as crispy.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps achieve that nice crispiness. If needed, feel free to use vegetable oil or canola oil. For a twist, try avocado oil for a bit of a buttery taste!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch of flavor. However, you can mix it up with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or even jalapeño cheese for a spicy kick!
Dill Pickles: These provide a fantastic tang. If you prefer something less sour, bread and butter pickles can work well too. They’ll add sweetness instead of tanginess!
How Can I Make Sure My Fries Are Crispy?
Getting those fries just right takes a little care, but it’s totally worth it! The key to crispy fries is proper preparation and baking.
- Start by cutting your potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate. About 1/4 inch thick works well!
- Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes helps remove excess starch, leading to crisper fries!
- Toss the fries well in oil and seasonings before baking. Make sure they’re coated evenly!
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give the fries room to breathe and crisp up.
- Flipping them halfway through cooking ensures that both sides get golden brown.
Following these tips will help you achieve fries that are deliciously crispy every time!
Cheddar Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: ranch dressing or dipping sauce of choice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and up to 35-40 minutes to bake, so set aside roughly 45-50 minutes in total to make these delicious cheddar pickle fries from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is great for getting crispy fries! Also, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things clean and prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash your russet potatoes thoroughly. If you like, you can peel them, but the skin adds some nice texture! Cut them into fries that are about 1/4 inch thick. Remember, the more uniform they are, the more evenly they will cook!
3. Season the Fries:
In a big bowl, toss the cut fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Ensure each fry gets a nice coat of those tasty seasonings. Don’t be shy with the mixing—get your hands in there if you like!
4. Bake the Fries:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; give them a little space for crisping up! Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy on the edges.
5. Add the Cheese:
Once the fries are cooked, take them out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the hot fries. Put them back in the oven for about 5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly!
6. Top with Pickles:
When the cheese is melted and looking delicious, remove the fries from the oven. Immediately add the sliced dill pickles on top, giving that delightful tangy flavor to your fries!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color! Serve them hot with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your cheesy, tangy, and oh-so-crispy cheddar pickle fries!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture from frozen fries before seasoning and baking them. This will help achieve that crispy texture!
Can I Make These Fries Air Fryer-Friendly?
Absolutely! If using an air fryer, coat the fries with oil and seasonings as usual. Then, cook them in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through, until crispy and golden.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheddar Pickle Fries?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add crumbled bacon, jalapeños for spice, or even switch the cheese to something like pepper jack for a kick! The possibilities are endless!
