Cheese Fries Turkey Bacon

The aroma of turkey bacon sizzling in a skillet somehow always pulls people into the kitchen, even when they claim they aren't hungry yet. I started making these cheese fries during college movie nights when something indulgent was needed but the budget was tight. Now they're the first thing requested whenever friends gather for casual hangouts, and honestly, I never object to an excuse to make them.

Last winter, my sister came over after a terrible week at work, and I made a double batch. We sat on the floor by the coffee table in our pajamas, picking at the platter while watching terrible romantic comedies and laughing until our sides hurt. Sometimes the best evenings start with nothing more than cheese, bacon, and potatoes.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: These have the perfect starch content to get crispy in the oven while staying fluffy inside, and cutting them yourself lets you control the thickness
• Olive oil: Helps the fries achieve that golden crunch without the heaviness of deep frying
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural potato flavor without overpowering the toppings
• Sharp cheddar cheese: The sharpness cuts through the richness and melts into beautiful gooey pockets
• Turkey bacon: Gives you that smoky, savory crunch with less fat than traditional bacon
• Green onions: Fresh brightness that balances all the rich, warm elements

Instructions

Get the oven ready:

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup later

Prep your fries:

Toss the cut potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated, then spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet

Bake until golden:

Cook the fries for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden on the edges

Make the bacon bits:

While the fries bake, cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel and chop into small pieces

Melt the cheese:

Remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle with shredded cheddar, then return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly

Add the toppings:

Top the cheese fries with the turkey bacon bits and green onions, then serve them hot while the cheese is still melted

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These became my go-to comfort food during a year when I lived alone and craved something warm and substantial after long days at work. Something about pulling that cheese-strewn tray from the oven makes even a regular Tuesday feel like a small celebration.

Making Them Ahead

You can cut the potatoes a day ahead and store them submerged in cold water to prevent browning, just pat them completely dry before tossing with oil and seasoning. The turkey bacon can also be cooked and crumbled ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble.

Cheese Choices

Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor punch, but I have also used pepper jack for heat or a Mexican blend when serving friends who love variety. Just avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents since they do not melt as smoothly as cheese you grate yourself.

Serving Ideas

These work beautifully as a game day spread or alongside burgers for an upgraded pub night at home. The sour cream on the side helps cool everything down if you get generous with the toppings.

• Set up a toppings bar and let guests customize their own portions
• Try a drizzle of ranch dressing over the top for extra creaminess
• Hot sauce on the side brings a nice kick for spice lovers

Pin Recipe

Hope these bring as much joy to your table as they have to mine over the years.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best for crispy fries?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which helps achieve a crisp exterior and fluffy interior.

→ Can frozen fries be used instead of fresh potatoes?

Yes, frozen fries offer convenience and can be cooked according to package directions for great results.

→ How can I make the turkey bacon bits crispy?

Cook turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it turns crisp, then drain on paper towels before chopping.

→ Are there alternative cheeses to cheddar that work well?

Mozzarella or cheese blends can be substituted for a milder or creamier topping without overpowering flavors.

→ What seasoning enhances the flavor of the fries?

Simple salt and pepper work well, but options like garlic powder or smoked paprika add extra depth to the fries.