Aug 28 2026
RestaurantsEl Vagon TacosLoaded Fries Recipe

Loaded Fries Recipe

Inspired by El Vagon Tacos
Time1h
Serves4

Make Loaded Fries Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Fries

Sauces & Finish

Method

Fries

  1. 1

    Prep potatoes

    Wash and peel the potatoes if you prefer (peel optional). Cut each potato into even 1/4- to 1/2-inch sticks. Rinse the cut fries under cold water until the runoff is clear to remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    Soak and dry

    Place the rinsed fries in a bowl of cold water and soak 20–30 minutes (or up to 2 hours refrigerated) to firm them and remove more starch. Drain and pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.

  3. 3

    Season

    In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to coat evenly.

  4. 4

    Fry

    Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches, careful not to overcrowd, for 3–4 minutes until soft and pale (blanched). Remove and drain on paper towels. Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the blanched fries again in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and immediately season with a pinch of salt.

Toppings

  1. 5

    Prepare bacon and cheese

    While frying the second batch, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble. Grate the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded. Thinly slice green onions and chop cilantro.

  2. 6

    Assemble on baking sheet

    Spread the hot fries in an even layer on an ovenproof baking sheet or cast-iron skillet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the fries, then scatter the crumbled bacon and sliced pickled jalapeños on top.

  3. 7

    Melt cheese

    Place the loaded fries in the preheated oven for 4–6 minutes, or under a broiler 1–2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Sauces & Finish

  1. 8

    Make sauce

    In a small bowl combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic powder, and hot sauce (if using). Stir until smooth and taste; adjust seasoning or hot sauce to taste.

  2. 9

    Finish and serve

    Remove the melted fries from the oven. Drizzle the sour cream sauce over the top (or serve on the side). Sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped cilantro over the fries as a final garnish. Serve immediately while hot; provide napkins and small forks for sharing.

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