Chili Cheese Fries Recipe

Introduction

Chili Cheese Fries are a delicious crowd-pleaser that combine crispy fries with savory chili and melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for game day, casual dinners, or whenever you crave something comforting and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 large russet potatoes (or frozen fries for convenience)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 packet chili seasoning mix
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
• Jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If using fresh potatoes, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and cut the potatoes into fry shapes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
2. Step 2: Bake the fries in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. If using frozen fries, follow the package instructions for baking.
3. Step 3: While the fries bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
4. Step 4: Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Step 5: Bring the chili mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
6. Step 6: Once fries are cooked, place them on a serving platter. Ladle the chili over the fries and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Step 7: Return the platter to the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and top with sliced green onions, sour cream, and jalapeños if desired. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, soak fresh potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking, then dry thoroughly.
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner chili option.
• Add chopped bell peppers or corn to the chili for more texture and flavor.
• Try topping with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• For vegetarian chili cheese fries, substitute the meat with extra beans or plant-based crumbles.

Storage

Store leftover chili cheese fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving to keep the fries crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the chili ahead of time?

Yes, chili improves in flavor when made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Prepare the chili in advance and reheat before assembling the dish.

What can I use instead of russet potatoes?

You can use sweet potatoes or frozen curly fries as alternatives, though baking times and textures will vary slightly.

Chili Cheese Fries Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 87 reviews

Chili Cheese Fries are a delicious and hearty comfort food combining crispy baked fries topped with flavorful chili, melted cheddar cheese, and savory toppings like green onions and sour cream. This recipe guides you through making crispy potato fries from scratch or using frozen fries, cooking a rich ground meat chili with beans and tomatoes, and assembling a mouthwatering dish perfect for any casual meal or game day snack.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Fries:

• 2 large russet potatoes (or frozen fries for convenience)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 packet chili seasoning mix
• 1 cup beef broth or water

For Toppings:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
• Jalapeños (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fries: If using fresh potatoes, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and cut the potatoes into fry shapes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
2. Bake the Fries: Bake the fries in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. If using frozen fries, follow the package instructions for baking.
3. Cook the Chili: While the fries are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess grease, then add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
5. Assemble the Dish: Once the fries are cooked and the chili is ready, remove them from the oven. Place the crispy fries on a serving platter, ladle the chili over the top, and generously sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Melt the Cheese: Return the assembled fries to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Add Toppings: Remove from the oven and top with sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, and jalapeños if desired. Serve hot!

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner chili.
• Frozen fries are a convenient shortcut, but homemade fries offer better crispness and flavor.
• Adjust the spiciness of the chili and toppings by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use plant-based ground meat substitutes or extra beans.
• Leftover chili can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Keywords: chili cheese fries, baked fries, homemade chili, comfort food, easy game day recipe