Loaded Nacho Fries Beef Cheese (Print Version)

Fries baked crisp then topped with taco beef, cheese, and fresh Tex-Mex toppings for a shareable treat.

# Components:

→ Fries

01 - 800 grams frozen French fries
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Taco Beef

07 - 300 grams ground beef
08 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
09 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
11 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
14 - 60 milliliters water

→ Cheese and Toppings

15 - 150 grams shredded cheddar cheese
16 - 100 grams shredded Monterey Jack cheese
17 - 1 medium tomato, diced
18 - 1 small red onion, finely diced
19 - 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
20 - 60 grams sour cream
21 - 60 grams guacamole
22 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
02 - In a bowl, toss the frozen fries with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until evenly coated. Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake according to package instructions, or until they are golden brown and crisp, approximately 25–30 minutes. Turn the fries halfway through the baking process for even cooking.
03 - While the fries are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned, about 5 minutes. Drain away any excess fat.
04 - Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onions have softened and become translucent.
05 - Stir in the taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, tomato paste, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
06 - Once the fries are crisp, carefully transfer them to an ovenproof serving dish. Evenly spoon the prepared taco beef mixture over the fries, followed by a generous sprinkle of both cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
07 - Return the assembled dish to the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
08 - Remove the dish from the oven. Scatter the diced tomato, finely diced red onion, and jalapeño slices (if using) over the top. Dollop with sour cream and guacamole, then finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro.
09 - Serve these loaded nacho fries immediately to best enjoy their crispness and warmth.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in under an hour from start to finish
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
  • Customizable with your favorite nacho toppings
  • Perfect for game day gatherings or casual dinners
  • Combines two beloved foods nacho toppings and crispy fries
02 -
  • These loaded fries are best enjoyed immediately after preparation
  • Each serving provides a complete meal with protein, carbs and vegetables
  • The recipe easily scales up for larger gatherings just use multiple baking sheets
  • Making your own taco seasoning gives you complete control over flavor and sodium
  • The fries maintain their crispness longer if you use thicker cut varieties
03 -
  • For the crispiest results, don't overcrowd your baking sheet when cooking the fries. Use two sheets if necessary. The extra few minutes of prep will reward you with perfectly crispy fries that stand up to the toppings.
  • The key to preventing soggy nacho fries is serving immediately after assembly. If you need to prepare components ahead for a party, keep the baked fries, hot meat mixture, and toppings separate until just before serving.
  • When selecting cheese, avoid pre shredded varieties if possible. The anti caking agents prevent proper melting. A few extra minutes spent grating your own cheese results in that perfect, stretchy cheese pull that makes these loaded fries irresistible.

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