Wo-waffle Cheese Fries Large Recipe

Preheat oil or oven

If frying: pour oil into a heavy pot or deep fryer and heat to 350°F (175°C). If baking/air frying: preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Pat frozen waffle fries dry with a paper towel to remove excess ice crystals. This helps them crisp up.

If frying: working in batches, carefully lower waffle fries into the 350°F oil and fry 3–4 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel–lined tray. If baking: arrange fries in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake 18–25 minutes, turning once, until crisp. If using an air fryer: cook in a single layer for 12–16 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crisp.

Immediately season the hot fries with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper and toss gently to coat. Transfer to an oven-safe platter or baking sheet for cheese assembly.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter until foaming but not browned.

Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, 1–2 minutes to form a roux and remove raw flour taste. Do not let it brown.

Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3–4 minutes.

Reduce heat to low and whisk in 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 2 tbsp softened cream cheese, 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp hot sauce if using. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Keep the cheese sauce warm over the lowest heat, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too thick, thin with 1–2 tbsp milk.

Arrange the hot seasoned waffle fries in a single layer (or slightly mounded) on a large oven-safe platter or sheet pan. For best coverage, spread fries evenly so cheese can reach most pieces.

Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the fries, using a spatula to help distribute so most fries are coated.

Sprinkle 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon evenly over the cheesy fries.

Top with 2 tbsp thinly sliced green onions and 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños if using. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for color.

Serve immediately while hot and gooey. Provide extra napkins — these are best eaten right away.