These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are a tasty treat you can’t resist! They combine crispy fries, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Yum!
Every bite is packed with flavor, making them perfect for sharing (or not!). I love serving these at game nights—everyone goes wild for them! Just be ready for the compliments! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen French Fries: I love using frozen fries for convenience, but if you prefer homemade, go for it! Just slice fresh potatoes, toss in olive oil, and bake until crispy.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is a must! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian twist, use crispy fried mushrooms or tempeh bacon.
Cheddar Cheese: While I opt for sharp cheddar for its taste, you can mix it with Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Vegan cheese alternatives also melt nicely if you’re dairy-free.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing can elevate the flavor. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and spices for a lighter version.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives adds a lovely color, but don’t worry if you don’t have them. Dried herbs can also work in a pinch.
How Can I Ensure My Fries Are Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is key to this dish. Here are some tips:
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if baking; it allows air to circulate.
- Don’t overcrowd the fries; give them space so they cook evenly and get crispy.
- For frying, make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding fries.
- Once cooked, drain them on paper towels to absorb excess grease, and season while they’re still hot for better flavor.
Follow these steps, and your fries will come out crispy and delicious every time!
Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups frozen French fries (or homemade fries)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the fries, while the toppings come together in just a few minutes. Then, it’s all about assembling and serving while it’s hot and cheesy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Fries:
Begin by cooking the frozen French fries according to the package instructions, or you can make your homemade fries. Bake or fry them until they’re crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, drain them on paper towels and lightly season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Arranging the Fries:
While the fries are still hot, carefully spread them out evenly on a large plate or in a shallow serving dish. This ensures all fries get some delicious toppings!
3. Adding the Cheese:
Now, it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the hot fries. The heat from the fries will help melt the cheese, creating a gooey, delicious layer.
4. Topping with Bacon:
Next, take the crispy, crumbled bacon and scatter it evenly over the cheesy fries. The smoky flavor of the bacon just enhances the dish!
5. Drizzling the Ranch:
Grab your ranch dressing and drizzle it generously over the entire plate of loaded fries. Don’t be shy – ranch is a key flavor here!
6. Garnishing Your Dish:
If you have fresh parsley or chives, sprinkle them on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. This step is optional but adds a nice touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Now, serve those Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries immediately while they’re hot and cheesy! Feel free to have extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Dressing?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ranch, feel free to switch it up with blue cheese dressing or your favorite creamy dressing. A spicy sriracha ranch can also add a nice kick!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a lighter version, consider using sweet potato fries or baking regular fries with a spray of olive oil. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and opt for a reduced-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
It’s best to enjoy these loaded fries fresh, but if you want to prep ahead, you can cook the fries and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the fries in the oven before adding the toppings.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer to crisp them back up. You can add a bit of fresh ranch dressing before serving to revitalize the flavors!
