Loaded Curly Fries Recipe

Preheat oven and prepare fries: Preheat the oven according to package directions for the frozen curly fries (usually 425°F / 220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment or foil and lightly spray or brush with 1 tsp vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Bake fries: Spread 1 lb frozen curly fries in a single layer on the prepared sheet. Lightly sprinkle ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper over the fries. Bake according to package instructions, turning once halfway through, until golden-brown and very crisp (typically 18–25 minutes depending on oven and brand). For extra crispness, use the oven’s convection setting if available and reduce time slightly. Keep warm when done (low oven ~200°F / 95°C) while you prepare toppings.

Cook aromatics: Heat 1 tsp vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add ¼ cup finely diced yellow onion and cook 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add 1 tsp minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Brown beef: Increase heat to medium-high and add 8 oz ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until mostly browned, about 4–5 minutes.

Season and finish: Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste, 2 tbsp water, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ¼ tsp ground cumin, ½ tsp kosher salt and ¼ tsp black pepper. Reduce heat to medium and simmer 2–3 minutes, stirring, until mixture is saucy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep warm.

Make roux: In a small saucepan over medium heat melt 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Add 1 tbsp all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.

Add milk and thicken: Gradually whisk in ½ cup whole milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer while whisking to remove lumps. Cook 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Finish cheese sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in ¾ cup grated sharp cheddar and 1 tbsp softened cream cheese a little at a time until smooth. Whisk in ½ tsp mustard, 1/8 tsp cayenne (optional), and ¼ tsp kosher salt. Keep warm on very low heat, stirring occasionally. If sauce becomes too thick, thin with up to 1–2 tbsp additional milk.

Arrange fries: Transfer the hot baked curly fries to an oven-safe platter or leave on the baking sheet.

Top with beef: Spoon the warm seasoned ground beef evenly over the fries, distributing it so most fries get some meat.

Add cheese sauce and bacon: Drizzle the warm cheese sauce evenly over the beef-topped fries. Sprinkle 2 slices chopped cooked bacon over the top.

Finish and serve: Scatter 2 tbsp thinly sliced green onions and 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños across the fries. Add 2 tbsp sour cream in dollops (or pass at the table), sprinkle 1 tbsp chopped cilantro if using, and drizzle 1 tsp hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately while fries and cheese are hot and melty.