Loaded Fries Recipe

Cook the fries

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or heat oil in a deep fryer/pot to 350°F (175°C) if frying. Spread the frozen curly fries in a single layer on a baking sheet (use parchment for easier cleanup) if baking, or carefully add fries to hot oil in batches if frying. Cook according to package instructions until deep golden and crispy — typically 18–25 minutes in the oven (flip once halfway) or 3–5 minutes per batch when frying. Drain on paper towels if fried.

While fries are hot, season lightly with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper and set on a large serving platter or oven-safe pan to receive the beer cheese sauce.

Make a roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Add 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and starts to turn slightly golden (do not let it brown).

Add beer and milk

Slowly whisk in 3/4 cup lager or pale ale, incorporating well to avoid lumps. Add 1/2 cup whole milk and continue whisking until the mixture begins to thicken, about 2–3 minutes.

Finish the sauce

Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup grated sharp cheddar and 2 tbsp cream cheese a handful at a time until fully melted and smooth. Add 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 tsp ground mustard (if using), and 1/4 tsp salt plus 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep the sauce warm on the lowest heat, stirring occasionally so it does not separate. If sauce thickens too much, whisk in a splash of milk or beer to loosen.

If you’d like the sauce thinner to better coat fries, warm it just before serving and add up to 2 tbsp more beer or milk to reach desired consistency.

Cook the bacon

While the fries are cooking and sauce is being made, lay 6 bacon slices on a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 400°F (205°C) for 12–18 minutes until crisp, or cook in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, turning as needed. Drain on paper towels and when cool enough to handle, chop into 1/2-inch pieces.

Assemble loaded fries

Arrange the hot fries on the serving platter or leave in the oven-safe pan. Spoon the warm beer cheese sauce evenly over the fries, using as much as desired (about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of sauce). Scatter the chopped bacon evenly over the sauced fries. Sprinkle 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles on top. Garnish with 2 tbsp thinly sliced scallions and 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley if using. Drizzle 1 tsp hot sauce over top if you want a touch of heat.

Serve immediately while fries and sauce are hot so cheese remains melty. Provide extra napkins and a small bowl for additional blue cheese or hot sauce on the side.