Spread the frozen waffle fries in a single layer on the baking sheet (or in the air fryer basket). If using oven method, toss fries with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for crisper results.

Season the fries lightly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Cook fries until golden and crisp: oven 18–22 minutes, flipping once halfway through; air fryer 12–16 minutes, shaking basket once or twice. Adjust time for your appliance and thickness of fries.

Cheese & Assembly

When fries are crisp and hot, transfer them to an oven-safe serving dish or keep on the baking sheet. If using a large plate that can't go in the oven, use the oven or broiler step that follows on the baking sheet.

Evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar (1 cup) and shredded mozzarella (1 cup) over the hot fries. Scatter optional crumbled bacon (1/4 cup) and sliced green onions (2 tbsp) on top.

Melt the cheese: Option A (oven): place the loaded fries under a preheated broiler on high for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully until cheese is bubbly and just starting to brown. Option B (oven): bake at 425°F (220°C) for 3–5 minutes until cheese melts. Option C (microwave): microwave for 45–60 seconds in a microwave-safe dish until cheese melts, though topping crispness may soften.

Remove from heat and let rest 1 minute. Taste and, if desired, finish with a light sprinkle of extra sliced green onions or a pinch of black pepper.

Ranch Dipping Sauce

While fries are cooking, combine mayonnaise (1/4 cup), sour cream (1/4 cup), and buttermilk (2 tbsp) in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.

Stir in fresh lemon juice (1/2 tsp), dried dill (1/2 tsp), dried parsley (1/2 tsp), garlic powder (1/4 tsp), onion powder (1/4 tsp), kosher salt (1/4 tsp) and black pepper (1/8 tsp). Taste and adjust seasoning or thickness (add up to 1 tbsp more buttermilk if you prefer a thinner dip).

Chill the ranch in the refrigerator until ready to serve, or serve immediately at room temperature.