Introduction
Get ready to elevate your game day snacking with these Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar! Perfectly crispy, golden fries are the star of this dish, delivering all the comfort of a baked potato packed into a fun finger food format. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or hosting a casual gathering, these loaded fries are sure to please a crowd.
Imagine crispy, seasoned fries topped with melty cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, zesty green onions, and a drizzle of sour cream—all the classic baked potato toppings brought to life in the form of tantalizing fries. Not only are they utterly delicious, but they’re also versatile! You can customize the toppings to fit your taste, making them a delightful addition to any game day menu.
So grab your favorite dipping sauce, gather your friends, and join me in making this irresistible dish that will have everyone reaching for more between plays! Let’s dive into the recipe and score big with these Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries!
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- ¼ cup crumbled bacon (cooked)
- ¼ cup jalapeños (sliced, optional)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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- Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly, then slice them into evenly sized fries (about 1/4 inch thick). You can leave the skins on for extra flavor and texture.
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- In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
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- Spread the seasoned fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there’s space between them for even baking.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
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- Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- Remove the loaded fries from the oven and top with dollops of sour cream, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and jalapeños if desired.
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- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the perfect Game Day snack with family and friends!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Russet Potatoes: 2 large, for the perfect crispy base
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for tossing the fries to achieve that golden finish
- Sea Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavor
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, for a touch of spice
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 1/2 cups shredded, for that rich, melty goodness
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled, to add a savory crunch
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup, for a creamy topping
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup, chopped, for fresh flavor and garnish
- Jalapeños: 1/4 cup, sliced (optional), if you want to kick up the heat
These key ingredients will transform your fries into the ultimate game day treat!
Baking Process
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Preparation of Ingredients: Start by gathering your ingredients. You’ll need russet potatoes, olive oil, salt, pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, crispy cooked bacon, sour cream, green onions, and any additional toppings you love.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy exterior that we love in baked potato fries.
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Cut the Potatoes: Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly. Pat them dry, then slice them into thin wedges or strips. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
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Season the Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Then, sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. You can also add any other seasonings you prefer, such as garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
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Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Spread the seasoned potato wedges in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. This will help them crisp up instead of steaming.
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Bake the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through for the best results. Keep an eye on them, and remove them when they’re golden brown and crispy.
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Add the Cheese and Toppings: Once the fries are done baking, take them out of the oven. Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits over the hot fries. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
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Final Assembly: Remove the loaded fries from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle with sour cream, and garnish with chopped green onions or any other toppings you enjoy, like jalapeños or additional herbs.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries hot, straight from the oven, and watch them disappear as friends and family dig in. Perfect for game day or any gathering!
Serving Suggestions
Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any sports event or gathering. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your game day experience:
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Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, sour cream, or spicy buffalo sauce. This allows guests to personalize their fries with their favorite flavors.
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Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings station where everyone can customize their fries. Include options like crispy bacon bits, green onions, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and extra shredded cheese. This interactive element adds fun to your serving style!
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Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, top your loaded fries with sautéed mushrooms, black olives, and roasted red peppers instead of bacon. Drizzle with a balsamic or vinaigrette dressing for added flavor.
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Salad on the Side: Pair your loaded fries with a refreshing side salad. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the fries.
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With Sliders or Wings: Serve the fries alongside sliders, chicken wings, or meatballs for a full hearty spread. This combo makes for a satisfying and sharable feast!
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Presentation Matters: Consider serving the fries in individual portions, either in mini baskets or on parchment paper-lined trays. This makes it easy for guests to grab and go while enjoying the game.
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Pair with a Beverage: Don’t forget the drinks! Pair your loaded fries with ice-cold beers, cocktails, or non-alcoholic options like homemade lemonade or iced tea to keep everyone refreshed and hydrated.
With these serving suggestions, your Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar will be the star of the show, ensuring that everyone leaves the party with happy bellies and big smiles!
Conclusion
Game Day Loaded Baked Potato Fries with Cheddar are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering where delicious snacks are a must. These fries bring together the beloved flavors of baked potatoes and the hearty indulgence of melted cheese, alongside your favorite toppings for added flair. Whether you’re cheering for your team, hosting a watch party, or simply craving a comforting bite, these loaded fries offer an irresistible combination of crunchy, cheesy, and savory goodness.
So grab your favorite toppings—bacon, sour cream, or chives—and get ready to dig into a dish that’s bound to impress friends and family alike. Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they also allow for customization, so everyone can enjoy their perfect plate. Don’t forget to set out some dipping sauces to elevate the experience even further! Give this recipe a try, and watch as these loaded baked potato fries become the star of your game day spread. Enjoy!
