Are you ready to elevate your snacking game? This chili cheese fries recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending crispy fries topped with a savory chili and gooey cheese. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or just a delicious treat, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
– 4 large russet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chili (homemade or canned)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains about 450 calories, 20g fat, 50g carbohydrates, and 10g protein. This is based on one person’s serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into fries.
3. Toss the fries in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
6. While the fries are baking, heat the chili in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and place them on a serving platter.
8. Pour the hot chili over the fries evenly.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the chili.
10. Return the dish to the oven for about 5 minutes, until the cheese melts. Garnish with onions, jalapeños, and cilantro.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a healthier option. Additionally, use vegan cheese and chili for a plant-based version of this dish.
Serving and Pairings
Chili cheese fries pair wonderfully with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce. They also make a great accompaniment to burgers or grilled meats.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chili cheese fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven for best results, or in the microwave if you’re short on time. Freezing is not recommended as the fries may become soggy upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to soggy fries.
- Not preheating the oven may result in uneven cooking.
- Using too much oil can make fries greasy.
- Neglecting to season the fries can lead to blandness.
- Not letting the cheese melt long enough can leave it rubbery.
Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of different cheeses for added flavor.
- For extra crunch, fry the potatoes instead of baking.
- Experiment with toppings like avocado or salsa.
- Let the fries cool slightly before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I make chili cheese fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili and fries in advance. Just reheat them separately before assembling.
What type of chili works best?
Both homemade and canned chili are great options. Choose your favorite or even make a vegetarian version.
Are there healthier alternatives?
Yes, using sweet potatoes and lower-fat cheese can make this dish healthier without sacrificing taste.
Can I freeze chili cheese fries?
It’s not recommended to freeze assembled chili cheese fries, as the fries may become soggy. Freeze components separately instead.
What can I serve with chili cheese fries?
They pair well with burgers, hot dogs, or as a standalone snack with dipping sauces.
Conclusion
Chili cheese fries are an irresistible comfort food that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether for a casual gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe will surely impress. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!
Chili Cheese Fries Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chili homemade or canned
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños optional
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into fries.
- Toss the fries in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
- While the fries are baking, heat the chili in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and place them on a serving platter.
- Pour the hot chili over the fries evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the chili.
- Return the dish to the oven for about 5 minutes, until the cheese melts. Garnish with onions, jalapeños, and cilantro.
Nutrition
