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Loaded Cajun Cheese Fries Recipe

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4.5 from 204 reviews

Louisiana Voodoo Fries are a decadent, flavorful twist on classic fries, featuring crispy oven-baked Russet potatoes topped with melted sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, smoky beef bacon, tangy pickled jalapeños, and fresh chives. Perfect as a hearty snack or a side dish, these fries combine spicy, smoky, and creamy elements for a delicious Southern-inspired treat.

Ingredients

Fries

  • 2 pounds Russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste

Toppings

  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 4 slices beef bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño slices, drained
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

Serving (optional)

  • Sour cream, for serving
  • Salsa, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Cut Russet potatoes into approximately ½-inch thick fries. Transfer to a large bowl.
  2. Soak the Fries: Submerge the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to leach out starch, which helps achieve a crispier fry. Drain thoroughly and pat completely dry with towels.
  3. Season the Fries: Return dried potato sticks to a bowl and toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until they are evenly coated.
  4. Preheat Oven and Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the fries in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
  5. Add Cheese and Melt: Remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Return the fries to the oven for 2-3 minutes, or cover with foil, until the cheese fully melts and becomes gooey.
  6. Top the Fries: Sprinkle the melted cheese with crumbled crispy beef bacon, drained pickled jalapeño slices, and chopped fresh chives for added flavor and texture.
  7. Serve: Serve the Voodoo Fries immediately while hot. Optionally, offer sour cream and salsa on the side to complement the flavors.

Notes

  • Soaking the potatoes removes excess starch and results in crispier fries.
  • Ensure to pat dry the fries thoroughly after soaking to avoid sogginess.
  • You can substitute beef bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
  • Adjust jalapeño quantity according to your preferred spice level.
  • Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.