This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
Loaded French fries are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering or weeknight indulgence. Pile them high with melty cheese, crispy bacon, fresh jalapeños, and a sprinkle of green onions for a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to make!
Fries + All the Toppings = Pure Happiness
I’m not sure who came up with the idea of loaded fries, but I think we can all agree they deserve a medal.
There’s something so irresistible about a tray of golden, crispy fries piled high with melty cheese, crunchy bacon, and a sprinkle of green onions.
It’s a little indulgent, a lot of fun, and absolutely the kind of dish that gets people gathered around the table (or couch). Whether it’s game day or a casual weekend hangout, these loaded fries are always a hit in my house—and with endless topping possibilities, you can make them your own every time!
Why We Love This Recipe
- Customizable: Go classic with bacon and cheese or get creative with toppings like pulled pork or chili. The options are endless!
- Quick and Easy: Using frozen fries saves time while keeping flavor intact, even with homemade toppings.
- Family-Friendly: The kids love building their own fry creations, and everyone gets what they want!
Basic Ingredients You’ll Need
- French Fries: Choose your favorite type—crinkle, shoestring, waffle, or steak fries. Bake or fry them for that crispy perfection. Frozen fries keep things quick and easy. Or make loaded sweet potato fries!
- Cheese: Go for melty varieties like cheddar or Monterey Jack. Shredded cheese melts evenly, and broiling gives it that irresistible gooey texture.
- Jalapeños: Fresh adds heat and crunch, while pickled jalapeños offer a tangy option with milder spice.
- Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon brings smoky, savory goodness. Prep it ahead for easy sprinkling.
- Green Onion: Chopped green onions add freshness and a mild bite that brightens up the rich toppings.
Additional Topping Ideas
- Pulled Pork or Shredded Chicken – for a meaty, protein-heavy addition. Or go Cajun-style with some Crawfish! Make it Mexican style with some grilled carne asada (like our Carne Asada Fries).
- Chili – classic and hearty. Homemade or store-bought to save time!
- Cheese Sauce: Make them extra cheesy with a homemade or store-bought cheese sauce.
- Guacamole or Avocado Slices – creamy and fresh flavors.
- Pickled Red Onions – adds tangy sweetness.
- Jalapeño Ranch or Chipotle Mayo – for a spiced-up sauce.
- Sriracha or Buffalo Sauce – for extra heat.
- Extra Veggies: Load up the fries with grilled onion, sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or corn to up the veggie factor.
Loaded French Fries Step-By-Step
Find the complete recipe card below with measurements and full instructions.
- Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking sheet and spread the fries out into a single layer. Bake the fries for 25-30 minutes or according to directions on the package, tossing the fries halfway through baking for optimal crispiness.
- While the fries bake, prepare the toppings by cooking and chopping the bacon, and grating the cheese.
- Sprinkle the cheese on top of the fries, then add the crumbled bacon, and continue to bake an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Top the fries with pickled jalapeños, diced green onion and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve with some Homemade Ranch Dressing for extra flavor!
Cooking Method
- Air Fryer: Use your air fryer to cook the French fries and then spread them out to broil with the cheese for a quick melt.
- Deep-Frying: Do you have a deep-fryer? Use that to cook your fries!
Serving & Storing
For the best results, serve these loaded fries right away to keep them crispy. Leftovers don’t reheat well, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh while they’re at their peak!
Pin this now to save it for later
Pin It NowIf you make and love our recipes, it would help us if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along with us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and YouTube.
Loaded French Fries
Ingredients
- 28 ounce bag frozen French fries (can use any style)
- 2 cups Colby jack cheese grated
- 6 strips bacon cooked and crumbled
- 3 scallions thinly sliced
- pickled jalapeños to taste
Toppings
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup ranch dressing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425℉, or to heat according to directions on the French fries.
- Line a large baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking sheet and spread the fries out into a single layer.
- Bake the fries for 25-30 minutes or according to directions on the package, tossing the fries halfway through baking.
- While the fries bake, prepare the toppings by cooking and chopping the bacon, and grating the cheese.
- Sprinkle the cheese on top of the fries, then add the crumbled bacon, and continue to bake an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Top the fries with pickled jalapeños, diced green onion and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
- Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.
Equipment
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
More Snack Recipes To Dig Into
Photography by KJandCompany.co
