Breakfast Fries Recipe

Cook fries

Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) if using oven-baked fries. Spread frozen or fresh-cut fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment; toss with 1 tbsp oil if using fresh. Bake 18–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. If using a fryer or air fryer, cook according to package or appliance directions until crisp. Keep hot.

Melt cheese on fries

When fries are hot and nearly done, sprinkle the shredded cheese blend evenly over the fries and return to the oven for 1–2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Remove, then immediately sprinkle grated Parmesan over the hot cheese so it adheres.

In a medium skillet over medium heat, brown the crumbled sausage until fully cooked and slightly crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Remove excess fat from the pan, leaving about 2 tbs of fat (or add butter if needed).

Add the 2 tbs butter to the pan with the sausage and melt. Sprinkle the 2 tbs flour over the sausage and butter and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to cook the flour (roux) and remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly whisk in the 1.5 cups milk, making sure to break up any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to a pourable but saucy consistency, about 3–5 minutes. Season with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, taste and adjust seasoning. Keep warm on low heat, stirring occasionally.

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine and shaved spring mix. Add the thinly sliced cucumber and halved cherry tomatoes and toss gently to combine.

Toss the combined salad greens and vegetables with the 1/2 cup house Caesar dressing until evenly coated. Taste and add a little more dressing if desired.

Transfer dressed salad to a large serving platter or divide between 4 individual plates, creating a flat bed in the center for the fries.

Pile the hot cheese-topped fries in the center of the salad bed, allowing some cheese and fries to mingle with the greens.

Ladle the warm sausage gravy over the fries (aim for modest coverage so fries stay somewhat crisp), or serve the gravy on the side for guests to pour.

Scatter the croutons over the salad and around the fries for crunch. Finish by dotting or drizzling the candied jalapenos across the fries and salad to taste (about 1/2 cup total) for sweet-heat contrast.

If desired, sprinkle a final pinch of grated Parmesan over the whole dish and serve immediately while fries and gravy are warm.