Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsPapa Chops EateryChili Cheese Fries Recipe

Chili Cheese Fries Recipe

Inspired by Papa Chops Eatery
Time1h
Serves4

Golden crispy fries covered in our homemade chili, cheese sauce, & cheddar.

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Ingredients

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Fries

Cheese Sauce

Toppings

Method

Fries

  1. 1

    Prepare the Fries

    Preheat the oven or fryer according to the package instructions of the frozen French fries. Once heated, spread the frozen fries evenly on a baking sheet (if using the oven) or in the fryer basket.

  2. 2

    Cook the Fries

    Cook the fries until they are golden and crispy, approximately 20-25 minutes in the oven or 10-15 minutes in the fryer, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

  3. 3

    Season the Fries

    Remove the fries from the oven or fryer, and immediately sprinkle with salt to taste, tossing gently to ensure even seasoning.

Chili

  1. 4

    Cook the Meat

    In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

  2. 5

    Add Aromatics

    Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. 6

    Mix the Chili Ingredients

    Stir in the chili powder, diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, corn, salt, black pepper, and cumin. Bring to a simmer.

  4. 7

    Simmer the Chili

    Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Cheese Sauce

  1. 8

    Make the Roux

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

  2. 9

    Add Milk

    Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

  3. 10

    Add Cheese

    Remove from heat and whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt to taste.

Assembly

  1. 11

    Assemble the Chili Cheese Fries

    On a large serving platter, layer the crispy fries, then generously spoon the chili over the top. Drizzle the cheese sauce over the chili and finish with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

  2. 12

    Add Toppings

    Top with chopped green onions and dollops of sour cream, as desired. Serve immediately.

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