Print

Cozy Chili Cheese Fries Bar Loaded with All Toppings Easy Recipe

chili cheese fries - featured image
Print Recipe

A warm, indulgent dish featuring crispy fries smothered in homemade chili and melted cheese, served with a variety of toppings for a customizable comfort food experience.

Ingredients

  • Frozen French fries (about 1.5 pounds / 700 grams) or homemade cut potatoes
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying or roasting)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Ground beef or turkey (1 pound / 450 grams; lean preferred)
  • Onion, finely chopped (1 medium)
  • Garlic cloves, minced (2)
  • Canned diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz / 400 grams)
  • Tomato paste (2 tablespoons)
  • Kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed (1 can, 15 oz / 425 grams)
  • Chili powder (1 tablespoon)
  • Cumin (1 teaspoon)
  • Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Beef broth or water (1/2 cup / 120 ml)
  • Cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups / 200 grams; sharp or mild based on preference)
  • Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese (optional, 1 cup / 100 grams)
  • Sour cream
  • Green onions, thinly sliced
  • Jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
  • Pickled onions
  • Avocado slices or guacamole
  • Hot sauce or salsa

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or prepare your air fryer.
  2. Toss the frozen fries with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
  3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet or place in the air fryer basket.
  4. Roast or air fry for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
  5. Keep warm in the oven on low heat if needed.
  6. While the fries cook, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  8. Stir in the garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  9. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  10. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
  11. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir to combine, then add the drained beans.
  12. Reduce heat to low and simmer the chili for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  13. While chili simmers, shred your cheeses if not pre-shredded.
  14. Lay out the crispy fries on a large platter or individual plates.
  15. Spoon generous amounts of warm chili over the fries, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  16. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until cheese melts and bubbles. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  17. Arrange sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, diced tomatoes, pickled onions, avocado, and hot sauce in small bowls for everyone to customize their plates.
  18. Let everyone pile on their favorite toppings and enjoy immediately while everything’s warm and melty.

Notes

If chili is too thick, stir in a splash of broth or water to loosen. For extra crispy fries, reheat in the oven just before serving. Assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess. Use a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack or mozzarella for best cheese melt and flavor. Vegetarian and vegan versions can be made by swapping meat for lentils or plant-based crumbles and using vegetable broth and vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese fries, comfort food, easy recipe, crowd-pleaser, customizable toppings, quick dinner, game day food

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/cozy-chili-cheese-fries-bar-loaded-with-all-toppings-easy-recipe/