Wo-waffle Cheese Fries Large Recipe

Preheat

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking, or heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C) if frying. Choose your preferred cooking method.

If frying: working in batches, fry the frozen waffle fries 3–4 minutes until golden and crisp. Use a spider or slotted spoon to transfer fries to a paper towel–lined tray. While hot, season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. If using an oven: spread fries in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, bake 18–25 minutes, flipping once halfway, until crisp and golden; then season with salt and pepper.

Keep fries warm on a baking sheet in a low oven (200–225°F / 95–105°C) while you make the cheese sauce.

Make a Roux

In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt 3 tbs butter. Once foamy, add 3 tbs flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until the raw flour scent cooks out and the mixture turns a pale golden color.

Add Milk

Gradually whisk in 1.75 cups whole milk, pour a little at a time to avoid lumps. Increase heat to medium-high and continue whisking until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer, about 4–6 minutes.

Finish Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup shredded American cheese a handful at a time, stirring until smooth and fully melted. Add 1 tsp mustard, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. If sauce is too thick, whisk in up to 2 tbs warm milk to reach a pourable consistency.

Keep sauce warm on the lowest heat setting, stirring occasionally to prevent skin forming. Do not boil.

Arrange the warm waffle fries in a large shallow serving tray or platter, spreading them evenly so cheese can coat them.

Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the fries, using all or most of the sauce depending on how cheesy you want them. Gently toss or use a spatula to help coat fries if desired.

Scatter 3/4 cup chopped crisp bacon over the sauced fries, then sprinkle 1/2 cup sliced green onions. Add 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños if using for heat and finish with 2 tbs chopped cilantro if desired.

Serve immediately while fries and cheese are hot and melty.