Loaded Steak Fries are a delicious and satisfying dish featuring crispy, golden steak fries piled high with savory toppings like melted cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and fresh green onions. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Satisfying: A full-flavored dish that works as a meal or a side.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
Quick and Easy: Use frozen or homemade steak fries for convenience.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers.
A Comfort Food Classic: Crispy fries with gooey cheese and savory toppings—what’s not to love?

Ingredients

Steak fries (store-bought or homemade)
Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Cooked bacon (crumbled)
Sour cream
Green onions (sliced)
Olive oil or cooking spray
Salt and pepper (to taste)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Fries:
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the steak fries package, or to 425°F (220°C) if making homemade fries.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through cooking (typically 20–25 minutes).
Assemble the Loaded Fries:
- Transfer the hot fries to an oven-safe dish or leave them on the baking sheet. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Return to the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Toppings:
- Remove from the oven and top with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions.
Serve:
- Serve immediately while the fries are hot and the cheese is gooey. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6 as an appetizer or side
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes

Variations

Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, jalapeños, and a drizzle of salsa or guacamole.
Buffalo Flavor: Toss fries with buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
Loaded BBQ Fries: Swap sour cream for BBQ sauce and add pulled pork or shredded chicken.
Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with roasted veggies like peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle with chili powder or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover loaded fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the fries soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade fries instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Slice potatoes into wedges, season, and bake until crispy for a homemade version.

2. What cheese works best for this recipe?

Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses are great alternatives.

3. Can I make these fries in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook the steak fries in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

4. Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative to traditional bacon.

5. How do I prevent the fries from becoming soggy?

Bake them in a single layer and avoid overloading with too many toppings that release moisture.

6. Can I add meat toppings?

Yes, shredded chicken, ground beef, or pulled pork make great additions.

7. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can cook the fries and prepare the toppings in advance but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.

8. Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and sour cream alternatives.

9. What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?

Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or garlic aioli are excellent choices.

10. How can I make these fries healthier?

Use baked sweet potato fries and lighter toppings like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Conclusion

Loaded Steak Fries are the ultimate indulgence, combining crispy fries, gooey cheese, and savory toppings into one irresistible dish. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, this versatile recipe can be customized to suit any taste. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or side, they’re sure to become a favorite!