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Crispy Loaded Sweet Potato Fries with Cheddar & Bacon

crispy loaded sweet potato fries - featured image

These crispy loaded sweet potato fries are topped with sharp cheddar cheese and smoky bacon, delivering a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. A quick and easy snack or side that’s perfect for casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g), peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick fries
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 6 slices smoked bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 4 oz / 115 g)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sour cream or ranch dressing for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch thick fries.
  3. Place fries in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons cornstarch. Toss well to coat each fry lightly.
  4. Drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil over the fries. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again until evenly coated.
  5. Spread fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack, avoiding overcrowding.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until edges are golden and crisp.
  7. While fries bake, cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  8. Remove fries from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over them, then scatter the bacon on top.
  9. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.
  10. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the loaded fries and serve immediately with sour cream or ranch on the side.

Notes

For extra crispy fries, let them rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes before adding toppings to let excess steam escape. Avoid overcrowding the fries on the baking sheet to prevent steaming. Add cheese at the end to avoid greasy or overcooked cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in a 400°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato fries, loaded fries, cheddar cheese, bacon, crispy fries, snack, appetizer, easy recipe