Dive into the heart of Texan cuisine with this delightful Texas Cheese Fries recipe. It's a simple yet delectable dish that brilliantly combines crispy fries with the flavorful richness of cheddar cheese, bacon, and spices. The addition of pickled jalapenos adds a spicy kick, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gatherings or a comforting treat for those solo movie nights.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe like potatoes, olive oil, cheddar cheese, and bacon are commonly found in home pantries. However, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and cumin might need a trip to the supermarket if not available. Also, pickled jalapenos, which give this dish its unique fiery touch, might not be a staple in every household and can be found in the canned goods or international aisle of your grocery store.
Key Ingredients for the Texas Cheese Fries
Potatoes: The base of this dish, they get wonderfully crispy when baked.
Olive oil: Helps to crisp up the fries and brings out the flavors of the spices.
Smoked paprika: Gives the fries a smoky flavor.
Chili powder: Adds a bit of heat to the fries.
Onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Garlic powder: Adds a mild and nutty garlic flavor.
Cumin: Gives a warm and earthy flavor note.
Bacon slice: Adds a savory, smoky touch when sprinkled over the top.
Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the fries, giving a rich and creamy texture.
Scallions: Provides a fresh and crispy contrast.
Pickled jalapenos: Gives a tangy and spicy kick that elevates the dish.
One reader, Briano Gaston says:
These Texas cheese fries were a hit at my last gathering! The blend of spices gave the fries a delicious kick, and the melted cheddar and crispy bacon took it to the next level. I'll definitely be making these again for my next party!
Key Techniques for Mastering Texas Cheese Fries
How to cut potatoes: Cut each potato lengthwise into ¼ inch thin slices, then cut each slice into ¼ inch fries.
How to bake the fries: Place the potatoes in a single layer on a lined and lightly greased baking sheet. Bake in the bottom third of the oven for 10 minutes, then turn and bake an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until crisp and browned.
How to top the fries: After removing from the oven, top the fries with cheddar cheese, sliced jalapenos, scallions, and bacon bits.
How to melt the cheese: Return the topped fries to the oven for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
How to serve: Serve the Texas cheese fries warm and enjoy!
How To Make Texas Cheese Fries
These savory cheese fries are loaded with crispy bacon and melted cheddar, then baked until golden brown for a slightly healthier but equally filling bite!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2medium potatoes,(5½ oz each), yukon gold or russet, washed and dried
- 2tspolive oil
- 1tspsmoked paprika
- ¼tspchili powder
- ¼tsponion powder
- ¼tspgarlic powder
- ⅛tspcumin
- coarse salt and fresh cracked pepper
- 1bacon slice,center cut, cooked, finely chopped
- ⅓cupsharp cheddar cheese,shredded
- 2tbspscallions,diced
- 1tbsppickled Jalapeno,sliced, jarred or canned
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Line the baking sheet with foil, then lightly coat with cooking spray.
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Cut each potato lengthwise into ¼ inch thin slices, then cut each slice into ¼ inch fries.
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In a large bowl, combine the cut potatoes and oil, then toss well. Add the paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt. and pepper. Toss to coat.
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Place the potatoes in a single layer, then bake in the bottom third of the oven for 10 minutes. Turn and bake an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until crisp and browned.
-
Remove from the oven, then top with cheddar cheese, sliced jalapenos, scallions and bacon bits.
-
Return to the oven for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
-
Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 365.30kcal
- Fat: 18.17g
- Saturated Fat: 6.92g
- Trans Fat: 0.28g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.73g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.95g
- Carbohydrates: 40.19g
- Fiber: 5.74g
- Sugar: 2.30g
- Protein: 11.97g
- Cholesterol: 32.01mg
- Sodium: 618.38mg
- Calcium: 189.66mg
- Potassium: 1019.11mg
- Iron: 2.38mg
- Vitamin A: 97.60µg
- Vitamin C: 46.52mg
Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Cheese Consistency
When preparing your potatoes for this recipe, it's important to cut them evenly. This ensures that they all cook at the same rate, preventing some fries from being overcooked while others are still undercooked. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each potato lengthwise into ¼ inch thin slices, then cut each slice into ¼ inch fries. If you're not confident in your knife skills, you can also use a mandoline slicer for more uniform cuts. Remember, the key to crispy, delicious Texas cheese fries is in the cut of the potato.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Texas Cheese Fries
Prep ahead: Chop and season the potatoes in advance to save time when you're ready to cook.
Use a mandoline: A mandoline can help you quickly and uniformly slice the potatoes for even cooking.
Double batch: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra for a quick and delicious snack or side dish later.
One pan: Consider using a large sheet pan to cook the fries and melt the cheese all in one go, saving time on cleanup.
Broil for speed: After baking the fries, broil them briefly with the cheese and toppings for a quicker melting process.
Pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating and preparation.
Batch seasoning: Mix a larger batch of the seasoning mix and store it for future use to save time on measuring and mixing each time.
Air fryer: Consider using an air fryer for a quicker cooking time and a crispy texture.
Quick pickled jalapenos: Use store-bought pickled jalapenos for a time-saving alternative to pickling your own.
Pre-cooked bacon: Use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits to save time on cooking and cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Texas Cheese Fries Recipe
potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes can provide a similar texture and flavor, adding a hint of sweetness to the dish.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable alternative for frying.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika and a dash of liquid smoke: Regular paprika combined with a small amount of liquid smoke can mimic the smoky flavor of smoked paprika.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper: Paprika with a touch of cayenne pepper can provide a similar heat level and flavor profile.
onion powder - Substitute with finely minced fresh onion: Fresh onion can add a more pronounced flavor compared to onion powder.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced fresh garlic: Fresh garlic can offer a more intense and aromatic flavor than garlic powder.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander shares a similar earthy and citrusy flavor profile to cumin.
coarse salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and texture to coarse salt.
fresh cracked pepper - Substitute with pre-ground black pepper: Pre-ground black pepper can be used as a convenient alternative to freshly cracked pepper.
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon or tempeh bacon: Turkey bacon or tempeh bacon can offer a similar smoky and savory flavor while catering to dietary preferences.
sharp cheddar cheese - Substitute with smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese: Smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese can provide a rich and bold flavor similar to sharp cheddar.
scallions - Substitute with chives or red onion: Chives or finely diced red onion can offer a similar mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
pickled jalapeno - Substitute with fresh jalapeno: Fresh jalapeno can provide a similar level of heat and a crunchy texture compared to pickled jalapenos.
Plating Ideas for the Perfect Texas Cheese Fries
Elevate the plating: Arrange the Texas cheese fries in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate contrasting textures: Introduce a variety of textures, such as the crispy fries, gooey melted cheese, and crunchy bacon bits, to add depth and interest to the dish.
Balance the flavors: Ensure that the flavors are well-balanced, with the smokiness of the paprika and the heat from the jalapenos complementing the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Highlight the ingredients: Emphasize the quality of the ingredients by showcasing the vibrant colors and natural appeal of the potatoes, jalapenos, and scallions.
Create a focal point: Design the plating to draw attention to the star elements, such as the perfectly melted cheddar cheese and the crispy bacon bits, creating a focal point on the plate.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Select elegant and sophisticated serving ware that complements the rustic charm of the Texas cheese fries, adding a touch of refinement to the presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Use fresh herbs or microgreens as a delicate garnish to add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to the dish.
Consider portion control: Present the Texas cheese fries in a portion size that is both visually appealing and appropriate for a professional setting, ensuring that each element is thoughtfully arranged.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Texas Cheese Fries
- Baking sheet: A flat metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
- Foil: A thin, flexible metal sheet used to line pans and wrap foods for cooking and storage.
- Cooking spray: A non-stick cooking spray used to coat pans and prevent food from sticking.
- Large bowl: A deep, wide container used for mixing and tossing ingredients.
- Olive oil: A flavorful oil used for cooking, baking, and dressings.
- Sharp knife: A cutting tool used for slicing and dicing ingredients.
- Bacon slice: Slices of cured and smoked pork belly used to add flavor to dishes.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used to grate cheese and other ingredients.
- Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for flipping and serving foods.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating foods.
- Cheese grater: A tool used to grate cheese into fine pieces.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
- Measuring cups: Utensils used to measure dry or liquid ingredients accurately.
- Serving platter: A large, flat dish used for serving and presenting foods.
- Oven mitts: Protective gloves used to handle hot dishes and pans from the oven.
- Tongs: A kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting foods.
- Serving utensils: Tools used for serving and portioning foods, such as spoons and forks.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Texas Cheese Fries
- To store leftover Texas cheese fries, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When reheating, spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the fries soggy.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cheese fries:
- Allow the fries to cool completely before freezing.
- Place the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen fries to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat frozen Texas cheese fries:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the frozen fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- If desired, you can add fresh toppings like shredded cheese, bacon bits, and sliced jalapenos during the last 2-3 minutes of baking to refresh the flavors.
How To Reheat Leftover Texas Cheese Fries
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover texas cheese fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and the cheese is melted. This method will help restore the crispiness of the fries and melt the cheese evenly.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your texas cheese fries. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover fries in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are crispy and heated through. The air fryer will help maintain the crispiness of the fries while reheating them quickly.
For a quick and easy method, you can use your microwave to reheat the texas cheese fries. Place the fries on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until they are heated through. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in slightly soggy fries, but it's a convenient option when you're short on time.
If you have a stovetop and a skillet, you can reheat your texas cheese fries by placing them in a single layer on the skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat the fries for 3-5 minutes, or until they are crispy and heated through. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the fries and melt the cheese evenly.
For a tasty twist, you can transform your leftover texas cheese fries into a breakfast dish. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the fries in a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe dish. Crack a few eggs over the fries and sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking and the cheese is melted. This method will give you a delicious and satisfying breakfast using your leftover fries.
Interesting Trivia About Texas Cheese Fries
The Texas cheese fries recipe is a popular appetizer in many restaurants across Texas. It is a delicious and indulgent dish that combines crispy fries with melted cheese, bacon, and jalapenos. This dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, and it's a great addition to any game day or party spread. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it's easy to customize with different toppings and seasonings. Whether you're a fan of spicy jalapenos or savory bacon, this dish has something for everyone to enjoy.
Is Making Texas Cheese Fries at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this Texas cheese fries recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in most households, and the recipe makes use of simple, affordable items. The potatoes, spices, and cheese are all budget-friendly, making it a cost-effective choice for a household. The addition of bacon and jalapenos may slightly increase the cost, but they can be optional. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it a reasonable and economical choice for a delicious appetizer.
Are Texas Cheese Fries Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Texas cheese fries recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The recipe is high in calories, with the potatoes being deep-fried and topped with cheese and bacon.
- The saturated fat content is elevated due to the presence of bacon and cheddar cheese.
- The sodium levels are likely to be high, considering the addition of salt and pickled jalapenos.
However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as the use of olive oil and the incorporation of spices like paprika, chili powder, and cumin, which offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:
- Instead of deep-frying the potatoes, try baking them with a light coating of olive oil to reduce the overall fat content.
- Opt for a lower-fat cheese, such as part-skim mozzarella or a reduced-fat cheddar, to decrease the saturated fat intake.
- Use turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative to lower the saturated fat and calories while still providing a smoky flavor.
- Increase the number of scallions and add diced tomatoes to the toppings for added freshness, fiber, and nutrients.
- Experiment with Greek yogurt as a topping instead of sour cream, which will provide a protein boost and a lower fat content.
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of Texas cheese fries that still satisfies your cravings for a savory and indulgent snack.
Editor's Opinion on the Deliciousness of Texas Cheese Fries
The Texas cheese fries recipe you provided is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The seasoning blend adds a smoky and spicy kick to the crispy fries, while the sharp cheddar cheese, bacon, and pickled jalapenos provide a satisfying richness and depth of flavor. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, resulting in a delicious and indulgent dish that would make a fantastic appetizer or snack. Overall, it's a winning recipe that is sure to please anyone looking for a tasty and comforting treat.
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Why trust this Texas Cheese Fries Recipe:
This recipe for Texas cheese fries is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy potatoes seasoned with smoked paprika, chili powder, and other spices creates a tantalizing flavor. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and zesty pickled jalapenos takes these fries to the next level. Trust the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your cravings for a delicious and indulgent treat.
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