Chili Cheese Fries Loaded (Printable version)

Crispy fries smothered in spiced beef chili and melted cheddar cheese, ideal for sharing or snacking.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chili

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 9 ounces ground beef
05 - 1 tablespoon tomato paste
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
10 - 14 ounces canned chopped tomatoes
11 - 7 ounces canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Fries

13 - 1.3 pounds frozen French fries (or homemade)
14 - Vegetable oil, for frying or baking

→ Topping

15 - 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
16 - 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
17 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
18 - Sour cream, for serving (optional)

# How To Make:

01 - Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
02 - Add ground beef to the saucepan and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned throughout, approximately 5 minutes.
03 - Stir in tomato paste, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add canned chopped tomatoes and drained kidney beans to the pan. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens.
05 - While chili simmers, cook the frozen French fries according to package instructions by either frying or baking until golden and crisp.
06 - Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
07 - Arrange the cooked fries on a large ovenproof platter or baking sheet. Evenly spoon hot chili over the fries, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
08 - Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
09 - Remove from the oven and garnish with thinly sliced spring onions and chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot with sour cream on the side if preferred.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The contrast between crispy fries and rich, hearty chili creates an addictive texture you cant stop eating.
  • Its endlessly customizable with toppings, heat levels, and cheese choices to suit your mood.
  • This recipe transforms simple ingredients into something that feels special and comforting without much effort.
02 -
  • Make sure your fries are properly crispy before adding the chili, or theyll turn soggy and lose their texture.
  • Let the chili simmer long enough to thicken, otherwise it will pool at the bottom and make the fries limp.
  • Use a hot oven and work quickly so the cheese melts without overcooking the fries underneath.
03 -
  • Use thick-cut fries or wedges if you want something sturdier that holds up longer under the chili.
  • Grate your own cheddar from a block instead of buying pre-shredded, it melts smoother and tastes better.
  • Add a pinch of sugar to the chili if the tomatoes taste too acidic, it balances everything beautifully.
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