These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are a crispy and cheesy dream come true! Topped with crispy bacon, creamy ranch sauce, and gooey cheese, they are irresistible.
Who can resist fries dressed up like this? Perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself (no judgment here!). I love serving them with a side of extra ranch for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen French Fries: Using frozen fries is super convenient, but you can certainly make your own by slicing and baking fresh potatoes. I prefer russet potatoes for the ideal texture—crispy outside and fluffy inside!
Bacon: Bacon brings a salty crunch to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian twist, you can use smoky tempeh or even crumbled mushrooms to add flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend of cheeses can add a nice touch. If you’re dairy-free, there are fantastic plant-based cheese alternatives too.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is quick, but homemade ranch dressing is a fun addition! You can use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs to make a lighter version. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan ranch dressings available in stores.
Chives or Green Onion: These add a fresh bite and color. If you don’t have them on hand, herbs like parsley or cilantro can also brighten up the dish!
How Do I Get My Fries Extra Crispy?
Crispy fries are key to this recipe! To achieve that perfect texture, follow these simple tips.
- Always preheat the oven! This step ensures that fries cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
- Arrange fries in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming. Crowding the pan leads to soggy fries!
- If making homemade fries, soak cut potatoes in water for 30 minutes before baking. This removes excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
- Don’t hesitate to add a little olive oil or cooking spray to the fries before baking to enhance crispiness.
Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Fries:
- 4 cups frozen French fries (or homemade cut potatoes)
For The Toppings:
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onion (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes total, including prep time and cooking. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes getting everything ready and about 15 minutes baking the fries and melting the cheese. In no time, you’ll have a tasty treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the French Fries:
First things first—preheat your oven! Check the package instructions for frozen fries or preheat it to 425°F (220°C) if you’re using fresh homemade fries. Spread the fries out on a baking sheet in a single layer, then pop them into the oven. Bake until they turn golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. When they’re ready, take them out and place them on a serving plate.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your fries are baking, let’s make that bacon! In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they become nice and crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel to drain off the excess grease. After they have cooled a bit, chop the bacon into small pieces so it can sprinkle nicely over the fries.
3. Assemble the Loaded Fries:
Now for the exciting part! Once the fries are out of the oven, start layering. Sprinkle the hot fries evenly with the shredded cheddar cheese. Next, generously add the chopped bacon on top of the cheese. Your fries are already looking tasty!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Return the loaded fries to the oven for another 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Just the sight of that melting cheese will make you eager to dig in!
5. Add Ranch and Garnish:
Once the cheese is melted, take the fries out of the oven. Drizzle ranch dressing over the top, as much as you like! If you have chives or green onion, sprinkle them on for a fresh touch. Finally, season everything with a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Serve Immediately:
Your Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot and offer a side of extra ranch dressing for dipping. These fries are absolutely perfect for a snack, game day, or any time you want something indulgent. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Fries?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh potatoes, slice them into your desired fry shape, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat them dry. Bake at 425°F (220°C) until golden and crispy, usually around 30-35 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing on hand, you can make a quick alternative by mixing Greek yogurt with herbs, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice. Alternatively, any creamy dressing like blue cheese or a cilantro lime dressing would work well too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread them out on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
For best results, it’s recommended to enjoy them fresh, but you can prepare the fries and cook the bacon in advance. Just assemble them with cheese and ranch right before serving to ensure everything stays crispy and delicious!