Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMerritt CanteenFrench Fries With Chili Cheese Recipe

French Fries With Chili Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Merritt Canteen
Time1h
Serves4

Crunchy fries smothered in spicy chili and melted cheese.

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Ingredients

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French Fries

Cheese Topping

Method

French Fries

  1. 1

    Prepare the Potatoes

    Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into thin strips to resemble French fries.

  2. 2

    Soak the Fries

    Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

  3. 3

    Dry the Fries

    Drain the soaked potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels.

  4. 4

    Fry the Potatoes

    In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch.

  5. 5

    Season the Fries

    Remove fries from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain. Immediately season with salt and black pepper.

Chili

  1. 6

    Cook the Ground Beef

    In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

  2. 7

    Add Vegetables and Spices

    Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. 8

    Mix in Remaining Ingredients

    Stir in chili powder, canned diced tomatoes, kidney beans, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assembly

  1. 9

    Combine Fries and Chili

    On a serving plate, place a generous amount of French fries. Spoon the chili mixture over the fries.

  2. 10

    Add Cheese

    Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chili-covered fries.

  3. 11

    Melt the Cheese

    Place the assembled fries in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

  4. 12

    Serve

    Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve immediately.

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