Loaded Fries Recipe
Make Loaded Fries Recipe in just 1h 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Fries
Beef (or alternative) topping
Cheese & finish
Method
Fries
- 1
Prep potatoes
Wash and peel potatoes if desired. Cut into evenly sized sticks about 1/3–1/2 inch thick. Place cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak at least 30 minutes (or refrigerate up to 24 hours) to remove excess starch.
- 2
Blanch fries (first fry)
Drain and rinse the potatoes, then pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. In a heavy pot or deep fryer, heat oil to 325°F (160°C). Working in batches, fry potatoes for 3–4 minutes until pale and just tender but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon to a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Let oil return to temperature between batches.
- 3
Crisp fries (second fry)
Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the blanched fries in batches for 2–4 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels, then immediately season with kosher salt and black pepper while hot.
Beef (or alternative) topping
- 4
Cook aromatics and meat
While fries are finishing, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until softened, 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef and break it up with a spatula; cook until browned with just a little pink remaining, about 5–6 minutes.
- 5
Season and simmer
Stir in tomato paste, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Add 60 ml (about 1/4 cup) water, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer 4–5 minutes until mixture is saucy and most liquid is absorbed. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Assembly & finish
- 6
Assemble loaded fries
Preheat oven broiler to high (or set oven to 450°F/230°C). Spread the hot fries in an even layer on an ovenproof baking sheet or cast-iron skillet. Spoon the hot meat mixture evenly over the fries.
- 7
Add cheese and melt
Scatter shredded cheddar and monterey jack evenly over the meat-topped fries. Place under the broiler 1–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling (watch closely to avoid burning). Alternatively, bake at 450°F for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts.
- 8
Garnish and serve
Remove from oven. Top with sliced pickled jalapeños and green onions. Dollop sour cream over the fries or serve on the side. Finish with chopped cilantro and a drizzle of hot sauce if using. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.