Cheese Fries Turkey Bacon

Theres something magical about the way cheese stretches when you pull apart a perfectly loaded plate of fries. I discovered this during a late night kitchen experiment years ago when I had nothing but potatoes, bacon, and cheese in the fridge. Now its become my go to comfort food whenever I need something warm and indulgent.

I made these for friends during our first apartment movie marathon and they disappeared before the opening credits finished. People still ask me to make them whenever we have game night or casual get togethers.

Ingredients

• 1 kg russet potatoes: Soaking them in cold water removes excess starch for extra crispy fries
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil: Helps achieve that golden crunch we all want in our fries
• 200 g shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that classic cheese sauce flavor everyone loves
• 100 g shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates those irresistible cheese pulls that make cheese fries famous
• 6 slices turkey bacon: Finely chopped and cooked until crispy for that perfect smoky topping
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives: Adds a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor to cut through the richness

Instructions

Prepare your fries:

Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove starch, then drain and pat them completely dry with clean towels.

Season and bake:

Toss the dried fries with oil and sea salt until well coated, then spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 220°C for 25 to 30 minutes, turning halfway through.

Cook the bacon bits:

While fries bake, cook the chopped turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then transfer to paper towels to drain and cool.

Add the cheese:

Transfer the golden fries to an oven safe dish and sprinkle evenly with both cheeses, then return to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.

Finish and serve:

Top the cheesy fries generously with crispy turkey bacon bits and fresh chives, then serve immediately while the cheese is still hot and stretchy.

Pin Recipe

These cheese fries became a tradition at our annual summer cookouts after someone accidentally made too much bacon and needed a vehicle for it. Now no party feels complete without a huge platter of them on the table.

Making Them Extra Crispy

I have found that spreading the fries in a single layer with space between each piece is crucial for maximum crispiness. Crowding the baking sheet makes them steam instead of roast, so use two sheets if necessary.

Cheese Variations

While the cheddar and mozzarella blend is classic, mixing in some pepper jack adds a subtle kick that pairs beautifully with the salty bacon. A little parmesan sprinkled on top before baking creates a wonderful crispy cheese crust.

Timing Is Everything

The key to perfect cheese fries is having everything ready before the cheese goes on the fries. Once that cheese hits the hot fries, you want to work fast to get them back in the oven and then to the table while the cheese is at its meltiest best.

• Preheat your serving dish in the oven so the fries stay hot longer
• Cook the bacon ahead and keep it warm in a low oven
• Chop the chives and have any sour cream ready before you start

Pin Recipe

Theres nothing quite like gathering around a platter of hot cheesy fries with people you love. Enjoy every messy, delicious bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy quality, creating crispy fries when baked. Frozen fries can also be used for convenience.

→ How to get fries crispy when baking?

Soaking fresh cut fries in cold water before baking helps remove excess starch. Tossing with oil and spreading in a single layer ensures even crisping.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheeses add distinct flavors while maintaining the melty texture of the topping.

→ Is turkey bacon necessary?

Turkey bacon adds a lean, savory crunch, but regular or vegetarian bacon alternatives can be substituted depending on preference.

→ How to store leftovers?

Keep any leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to preserve crispiness. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

→ Can I make these dairy-free?

Using plant-based cheese alternatives and skipping sour cream can make the dish suitable for dairy-free diets.