Loaded Waffle Fries Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly brush or spray with oil.

Spread the frozen waffle fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush with the 2 tablespoons vegetable oil and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon salt, tossing lightly so fries are evenly coated.

Bake according to package instructions for crispiness, usually 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through so both sides get golden and crisp. For extra crispiness, broil 1–2 minutes at the end watching carefully to avoid burning.

While fries bake, cook the bacon: place bacon slices in a cold skillet, turn heat to medium, and cook until browned and crisp, about 8–10 minutes, flipping occasionally. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then chop into bite-size pieces.

Slice the green onions thinly on a bias. If using jalapeño, slice thinly and remove seeds for less heat.

When fries are hot and crisp, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar-jack cheese over the fries, then scatter the chopped bacon on top.

Return the sheet to the oven and bake 3–5 minutes more, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey. Alternatively, set the oven to broil and broil 1–2 minutes, watching closely.

Remove from oven and transfer fries to a serving platter or leave on the baking sheet. Dollop or drizzle sour cream over the loaded fries (or serve sour cream on the side). Sprinkle sliced green onions and cracked black pepper over the top. Add jalapeño slices if using.

Serve immediately while hot and cheesy. Provide extra sour cream or hot sauce on the side if desired.