Cheese Fries Recipe

Prep potatoes

Wash and scrub the russet potatoes. Leave skins on for texture or peel if you prefer. Cut each potato into evenly sized fries about 1/3–1/2 inch thick. Rinse the cut fries under cold water until the runoff is clear to remove excess starch.

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 the fries and removes more starch for crispiness.

Dry

Drain the fries and spread them on clean kitchen towels or paper towels. Pat thoroughly dry — moisture will cause oil splatter and soggy fries.

First fry (blanch)

Heat 1 to 1 1/2 cups of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 300°F (150°C). If you don't have a thermometer, heat until a small piece of potato sizzles gently. Fry the potatoes in batches for 4–6 minutes until tender but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Let rest 10 minutes.

Second fry (crisp)

Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry fries in batches again for 2–3 minutes or until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels. Immediately season with the 1 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper while hot so seasoning adheres.

Cook bacon

While fries are resting before the second fry (or in a separate pan), cook the bacon until crisp. For stovetop: place bacon in a cold skillet, cook over medium heat, turning occasionally for 8–10 minutes until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and drain. Once cool, chop or crumble into bite-sized pieces (approximately the size of the fries).

Mix cheeses

Combine the shredded cheddar and monterey jack in a bowl so the cheeses distribute evenly when melted.

Assemble

Preheat your oven broiler or set oven to 450°F (230°C) if you prefer. Arrange the hot fries on an oven-safe platter or baking sheet in an even layer. Scatter the crumbled bacon evenly over the fries, then sprinkle the mixed cheeses on top so they cover the fries in an even layer. Add the sliced banana peppers over the cheese (use more or less to taste).

Melt cheese

Place the assembled fries under the broiler 4–6 inches from the heat for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, bake at 450°F for 4–6 minutes until cheese melts and starts to bubble. Remove promptly to avoid burning.

Finish

Scatter the thinly sliced green onions over the melted cheese. If using, add dollops of sour cream or drizzle ranch and a few drops of hot sauce for heat. Serve immediately while hot and gooey.

If adding sour cream, place small dollops on top after broiling. Drizzle hot sauce sparingly to taste. Serve additional banana peppers or ranch on the side for guests who want more.