Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe has everything you crave: crispy fries, savory beef, and loads of melted cheese. The combination of flavors is unbeatable, with the beef seasoned just right and the cheese making every bite extra indulgent. Plus, it’s customizable! You can adjust the toppings to your preference, making this dish as mild or spicy as you like. It’s quick to prepare and delivers on both taste and satisfaction, making it a great choice for anyone craving comfort food that doesn’t take all day to prepare.

Ingredients

  • 1 bag (1 lb) frozen French fries
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato sauce)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Cook the Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the French fries evenly on a baking sheet and cook according to the package instructions until golden and crispy.

  2. Prepare the Beef Mixture: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened. Season with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

  3. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the cooked fries to a baking dish. Evenly spoon the beef mixture over the fries. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.

  4. Bake: Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  5. Serve: Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with black beans or a vegetarian protein like crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
  • Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce over the top to add an extra kick.
  • Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar and mozzarella for your favorite cheeses like pepper jack, provolone, or gouda for a unique twist.
  • Toppings: Get creative with toppings like sliced avocado, guacamole, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place the fries in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh potatoes. Just cut them into fries, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and bake them in the oven at 425°F until golden and crispy.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken would all work well in this dish.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your fries and marinara sauce are gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the dish ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Can I make this dish in a skillet instead of the oven?

Yes, you can finish the dish in a skillet on the stovetop. After assembling the beef and cheese on the fries, cover and cook on low heat until the cheese melts.

What are some good sides to serve with this dish?

Serve with a simple salad, coleslaw, or even some grilled veggies for a balanced meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

While the fries may lose some crispness when reheated, the beef mixture and cheese can be prepped ahead and stored separately. Assemble and bake when ready to enjoy.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less chili powder, paprika, or jalapeños, depending on your preference.

Can I use a different sauce than marinara?

Yes, you can substitute marinara sauce with BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or any tomato-based sauce of your choice.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the loaded fries after baking. Just store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Conclusion

Cheesy loaded beef fries are the ultimate indulgence, offering a perfect balance of crispy fries, savory beef, and melted cheese. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or a full meal, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. With simple ingredients, easy prep, and the option to customize to your taste, this dish is a winner every time!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

Craving a delicious and indulgent comfort food dish? These Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries are a perfect choice! Crispy fries topped with seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese create a savory, cheesy experience that’s sure to satisfy. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish as an appetizer, snack, or quick dinner!

Ingredients

  • 1 bag (1 lb) frozen French fries
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato sauce)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños

Instructions

  • Cook the Fries: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the French fries on a baking sheet and bake as per package instructions until golden and crispy.

  • Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Season with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

  • Assemble the Dish: Transfer the cooked fries to a baking dish. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the fries, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

  • Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Serve: Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef with black beans or plant-based protein (like crumbled tofu or tempeh).
  • Spicy Variation: Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or provolone.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack, Comfort Food
  • Method: Oven-Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star