Waffle Cheese Fries Large Recipe

Heat oil

If deep-frying: heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). If using an oven/air fryer: preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Fry or bake fries

Deep-fry frozen waffle fries in batches so oil returns to temperature; cook 3–4 minutes per batch until golden and crisp. If oven-baking, spread fries in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp. If air-frying, arrange in a single layer and cook 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway. Cook until fries are crisp and golden.

Season fries

Immediately after cooking, transfer fries to a large bowl or serving platter, sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, and toss gently to distribute.

Make roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tbs unsalted butter. When melted and foaming slightly (about 1 minute), add 2 tbs all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is pale golden and fragrant (this cooks out the raw flour flavor).

Add milk

Slowly pour in 1 cup whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently, about 3–4 minutes.

Finish cheese sauce

Reduce heat to low. Remove pan from direct heat for 30 seconds, then add 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 0.5 cup shredded monterey jack in two additions, stirring until smooth after each addition. Stir in 1/4 tsp dry mustard, 1/4 tsp hot sauce, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning. If sauce is too thick, whisk in up to 1–2 tbs milk to reach a pourable consistency.

Transfer the seasoned waffle fries to a large, oven-safe platter or serving tray in an even layer. Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the fries, working quickly so the sauce coats many fries. Sprinkle 1/2 cup crumbled crispy bacon evenly over the sauced fries.

Scatter 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions on top and add pickled jalapeño slices (about 2 tbs) if using for heat. Serve immediately while fries and sauce are hot and the fries remain crisp at the edges.

Optional: For an extra-crispy finish, after saucing and topping, place the assembled tray under a very hot broiler for 1–2 minutes to bubble and brown the cheese—watch closely to avoid burning.