Loaded Cheesy Beef Fries
Ingredients:
For the Fries:
- 1 lb (500g) frozen steak fries or fresh-cut russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper
For the Beef Topping:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning or DIY mix (cumin, chili powder, oregano)
- ½ cup beef broth (for deglazing)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or half-and-half)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar (or Monterey Jack for meltiness)
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional, for tang)
Toppings (Pick Your Faves!):
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños (pickled or fresh)
- Sour cream
- Green onions or cilantro
- Hot sauce or BBQ drizzle
Instructions:
1. Crisp the Fries:
- Toss fries with oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 mins (flip halfway) until golden.
- Air fryer option: 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 mins, shaking once.
2. Cook the Beef:
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft (3-4 mins).
- Stir in taco seasoning and beef broth; simmer 5 mins until thickened.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to make a roux (1 min).
- Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Simmer 2-3 mins until thickened.
- Reduce heat, stir in cheese until melted. Add mustard powder if using.
4. Assemble the Loaded Fries:
- Pile fries on a wooden board
- Smother with beef, drizzle cheese sauce, then add toppings generously.
5. Optional Broiler Finish:
- Pop under the broiler for 2 mins to melt cheese further (watch closely!).