These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are a mouth-watering treat! Crispy fries topped with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of ranch dressing make them a true crowd-pleaser.
Every bite is packed with flavor, and honestly, who can resist bacon? I love serving these as a fun snack during game day or just when I’m feeling a bit indulgent. They’re always a hit! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen French Fries: I love using a 32 oz bag for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could make your own from scratch with fresh potatoes. Just slice, season, and bake or fry!
Bacon: Eight slices give that crispy goodness. You can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option, or even go meatless with veggie bacon! Just be aware that cooking times may vary.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is my go-to for its flavor and melting qualities. For a twist, try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Onions: I prefer sautéed onions for a softer texture, but raw onions add a great crunch. You could skip onions altogether if you want a simpler topping!
Ranch Dressing: This is key for that creamy element. If you’re into homemade, just mix mayo, buttermilk, garlic powder, and herbs together. Vegan ranch can also work well!
How Can I Get the Fries Extra Crispy?
If you want crispy fries, follow these steps:
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; spread fries in a single layer for even cooking.
- Consider double-frying. Bake them the first time, cool slightly, then return them to the oven for a few minutes to crisp up.
- Use a little cooking oil spray; it helps them get that golden crust without excess grease.
These little tricks make a big difference. You’ll have fries that are perfectly crunchy and ready to soak up all those delicious toppings!
Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (32 oz) bag frozen French fries
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional, sautéed or raw depending on preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- Ranch dressing, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus around 25-30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you can have these delicious Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries ready in just about 40 minutes! Perfect for a snack or party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the French fries package, usually around 425°F (220°C). This ensures your fries get extra crispy!
2. Bake the Fries:
Spread the frozen French fries evenly on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re in a single layer for best results. Bake them in the oven according to the package instructions until they’re golden and crispy—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the fries are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat, then chop it into small pieces.
4. Optional Onion Prep:
If you like onions, you can sauté the diced onions in a bit of the bacon fat left in the pan for extra flavor until they’re soft and golden. If you prefer a crunch, you can skip this step and use raw onions instead!
5. Assemble the Loaded Fries:
Once your fries are out of the oven, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over them, followed by the crispy bacon pieces and onions. Get it all nice and distributed for maximum flavor!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Return the loaded fries to the oven for about 3-5 minutes, just enough time for the cheese to melt completely.
7. Finish and Serve:
Take the fries out of the oven. Drizzle ranch dressing generously over the top, then sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy:
Add salt and pepper to taste, serve immediately, and enjoy these delicious loaded fries with family or friends!
These Loaded Bacon Ranch French Fries are perfect for game days, movie nights, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent. The combination of crispy fries, rich cheese, savory bacon, and creamy ranch makes for a winning snack!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Fries?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh potatoes, slice them into fries, toss with a little oil, salt, and pepper, and bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy. Just ensure they’re thin enough for even cooking!
What if I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing mayo with a bit of milk, garlic powder, and any herbs you enjoy. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still add that creamy touch to your loaded fries!
Can I Make These Fries Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the fries and toppings ahead of time. Just bake the fries and assemble them with cheese and toppings, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese melts!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy again, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.