Super Fries Recipe

Prep potatoes

Wash and peel potatoes (peeling optional). Cut each potato into 1/3" to 1/2" thick matchstick fries. Place cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to remove excess starch. Drain and rinse, then pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.

Coat with cornstarch

Place dried fries in a large bowl. Sprinkle cornstarch over fries and toss gently to coat. This creates a crisper exterior when fried or baked.

First fry (if deep frying) or blast in oven

Deep fry method: Heat 2 cups oil in a heavy pot to 320°F (160°C). Fry fries in batches for 3–4 minutes until soft but not browned. Remove and drain on a wire rack. For oven/air-fryer: toss fries with 1 tbs vegetable oil, spread on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes until softened but not deeply colored.

Second fry (crisp)

Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry par-cooked fries in batches 2–3 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and immediately season with kosher salt and black pepper. If using oven method, increase to 475°F (245°C) and roast 6–8 more minutes to achieve crispness, turning once.

Cook bacon

While fries are par-cooking, lay bacon slices on a rimmed baking sheet and cook in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 12–16 minutes until crisp (or fry in a skillet over medium heat until brown and crisp). Transfer to paper towels to drain and cool slightly, then crumble or chop into bite-size pieces.

Shred cheese and prep garnish

Grate the sharp cheddar and monterey jack (if using) and thinly slice green onions (white and green parts separated if you prefer). Roughly chop parsley if using.

Assemble on baking sheet or skillet

Preheat broiler to high (if finishing under broiler) or keep oven at 425°F (220°C). Arrange hot fries in a single layer on a large oven-safe sheet or cast-iron skillet. Evenly distribute half of the shredded cheeses over fries, sprinkle bacon pieces over cheese, then top with remaining cheese.

Melt cheese

Broil 2–4 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling and just starting to brown. Alternatively, place under oven at 425°F (220°C) for 4–6 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.

While cheese melts, mix sour cream with hot sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to create a quick spiced sour cream. Taste and adjust hot sauce to preference.

Remove cheesy fries from oven. Sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped parsley over the top. Drizzle the spiced sour cream over the fries or serve on the side for dipping. Give a final light sprinkle of smoked paprika for color and a crack of black pepper to taste.

Serve immediately while hot so cheese is gooey and fries are crisp.