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Ingredients
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Fries
Toppings
Sauces & Finishes
Method
Fries
Prep potatoes
Wash and peel (optional) the russet potatoes. Cut into 1/4–1/2 inch sticks for fries. Place cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to remove excess starch.
Dry & toss
Drain the soaked fries and pat completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with the cornstarch (if using), 1/2 cup oil, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until evenly coated.
Cook fries
Oven method: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Spread fries in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone mat. Bake 20–30 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and crisp. Air-fryer method: Preheat to 400°F and cook in a single layer 12–18 minutes, shaking halfway. Frying method: Heat 2–3 cups oil in a heavy pot to 325°F, fry in batches 3–4 minutes until pale and soft, remove and drain. Increase oil to 375°F, return fries in batches and fry 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp; drain on paper towels.
Toppings
Cook bacon
While fries cook, place bacon slices in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crisp, about 8–12 minutes. Transfer to paper towels and let cool, then chop into bite-size pieces.
Prepare jalapeños
Slice fresh jalapeños into thin rounds, removing seeds if you want less heat. If using pickled jalapeños, drain and slice thinly. Reserve 6–8 slices for garnish.
Shred cheeses & chop scallions
Shred the cheddar and Monterey Jack and finely slice the scallions (white and light green parts can be used for more flavor, green parts for garnish).
Assemble warm
When fries are hot and crisp, transfer them to an oven-safe platter or baking sheet/grid. Evenly sprinkle half the shredded cheeses over the fries, then scatter the chopped bacon and half the fresh jalapeño slices. Top with the remaining cheese.
Melt cheese
Place the assembled fries under a hot broiler for 1–2 minutes (watch closely) or put back in a 400°F oven for 3–4 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Sauces & Finishes
Make quick sauce
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the hot sauce and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust: add more hot sauce for heat or more lime for brightness.