Introduction
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like cozying up with a warm, comforting dish that captures the essence of fall. Enter the Air Fryer Loaded Fries with Cheddar & Bacon—a delightful combination that transforms ordinary fries into an indulgent treat! Whether you’re seeking a perfect game-day snack, a side dish for your autumn gatherings, or just a way to satisfy those comfort food cravings, these loaded fries deliver big on flavor without the guilt of traditional frying.
The air fryer makes it easy to achieve that golden, crispy texture we all love, while cutting down on excess oil. Topped with gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of green onions, these fries are sure to become a staple in your fall recipe repertoire. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! So grab your air fryer, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that celebrates everything we love about fall.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional: extra cheese for topping
Instructions
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- Prep the Potatoes: Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry, then cut them into fries, roughly ¼ inch thick.
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- Season the Fries: In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well-coated.
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- Air Fry the Fries: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking, until they are golden and crispy.
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- Add Cheese and Bacon: Once the fries are done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over them. Return to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- Serve It Up: Carefully remove the loaded fries from the air fryer. Drizzle with sour cream and top with sliced green onions. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, add a little more shredded cheese on top!
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- Enjoy Together: Gather your family around and dig into these scrumptious loaded fries while they’re hot and cheesy!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 35 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Frozen French Fries – 1 pound (choose your favorite cut)
- Cheddar Cheese – 1 to 2 cups, shredded (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
- Bacon – 4 to 6 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Green Onions – 2 to 3, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sour Cream – for drizzling or serving
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon (optional, for added flavor)
- Jalapeños – sliced (optional, for a spicy kick)
These ingredients will create the perfect blend of flavors and textures for your loaded fries, making them an irresistible fall favorite!
Baking Process
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Preparation of the Fries: Start by washing and peeling your potatoes if you prefer skinless fries. Cut them into even sticks, about ¼ inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. If you’re using frozen fries, make sure to choose a style that you love—steak fries, crinkle-cut, or thin-cut all work well!
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Soaking the Potatoes (Optional): If you’re making fries from scratch, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch, making your fries crisper once cooked. After soaking, drain and pat them dry with paper towels.
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Seasoning: In a large bowl, toss your fries with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings (such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne for a kick). Make sure each fry is evenly coated.
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Preheating the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for achieving an optimal crispiness.
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Air Frying the Fries: Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re in a single layer for even cooking. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to work in batches. Air fry for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure uniform cooking. The fries should be golden brown and crispy.
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Topping the Fries: Once cooked, carefully transfer the hot fries to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top.
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Melting the Cheese: If you prefer melted cheese, place the fries in the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is bubbly and begins to brown slightly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
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Final Touches: Remove the loaded fries from the air fryer and finish with a drizzle of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of green onions for added flavor and freshness.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your delicious Air Fryer Loaded Fries with Cheddar & Bacon are now ready to be devoured! Serve them hot as an indulgent snack or a perfect side dish at your fall gatherings. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and hearty flavors!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Air Fryer Loaded Fries with Cheddar & Bacon, consider these serving suggestions that will take your dish from ordinary to extraordinary:
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Dipping Sauces: Serve alongside a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors. Options like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo can add an exciting twist.
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Fresh Herbs: Garnish your loaded fries with freshly chopped herbs, such as chives, parsley, or cilantro. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cheese and bacon.
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Avocado or Guacamole: For a creamy addition, offer slices of avocado or a side of guacamole. The richness of avocados balances out the savory notes of the loaded fries.
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Pickled Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, include pickled jalapeños on the side. They provide a delightful acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon.
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Protein Boost: Turn your loaded fries into a hearty meal by adding grilled chicken, pulled pork, or chili on top. This transforms them into a satisfying main dish that can feed a crowd.
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Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different seasonings after they come out of the air fryer. A sprinkle of smoked paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder can add an extra layer of flavor.
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Side Salad: Balance out the indulgence by serving a crisp side salad. A light salad with a vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fries.
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Beer Pairings: For an adult twist, consider pairing your loaded fries with a cold beer. A crisp lager or a spiced autumn ale can complement the flavors beautifully.
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Family Style Presentation: Serve the loaded fries in a large bowl or on a platter, letting everyone dig in family-style. This creates a fun and communal dining experience.
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Seasonal Touches: Consider adding seasonal ingredients like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired twist that highlights the flavors of the season.
With these serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Loaded Fries with Cheddar & Bacon will be an inviting and delicious addition to any gathering! Enjoy!
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Loaded Fries with Cheddar & Bacon are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall while enjoying a deliciously indulgent snack or side dish. The combination of crispy fries, melted cheese, and savory bacon creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, this recipe is great for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights in.
Feel free to customize your loaded fries with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños for an extra kick. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a delightful appetizer, these loaded fries are sure to be a hit. Grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a taste of fall that will have everyone coming back for more!
