Bacon Cheese Fries Recipe

1. Prep potatoes

Cut the scrubbed russet potatoes into 1/4- to 1/2-inch sticks. Rinse the cut fries under cold running water until the water runs clear (removes surface starch).

2. Soak

Place the rinsed fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This firms them and removes more starch for crispier fries.

3. Dry and coat

Drain the fries and pat thoroughly dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Transfer to a large bowl, sprinkle the cornstarch over the fries and toss until evenly coated. Season with 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1 tsp black pepper and toss to combine.

4. Fry — first cook (blanch)

Heat 1 to 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet to about 325°F (160°C). Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, fry the fries for 3–4 minutes until they are pale, slightly softened but not browned. Use a slotted spoon to transfer fries to a wire rack or paper towel-lined tray to drain. Let cool for 5–10 minutes.

5. Fry — second cook (crisp)

Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the cooled fries in batches for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels and immediately sprinkle with remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven on a sheet pan while finishing other batches.

6. Cook bacon

While the fries are cooling between steps, cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, 8–12 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer cooked bacon to paper towels to drain and cool, then chop into 1/2-inch pieces.

7. Assemble and melt cheese

Arrange hot fries on an oven-safe platter or sheet pan in a single layer (or slightly piled) and sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the fries. Scatter the chopped bacon across the cheese-topped fries. Place under a preheated broiler or in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 2–4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

8. Finish and garnish

Remove from oven, sprinkle with sliced green onions and minced chives (if using). Grind the remaining 1/2 tsp black pepper over the top. Serve immediately with optional ranch, ketchup, or hot sauce on the side.

9. Mix ranch with a teaspoon of hot sauce for a spicy dip, or serve ketchup on the side. Place small bowls of sauce next to the fries for dipping.