Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 3 cups thick-cut fries; 1 tbsp oil; 1 cup cheddar cheese, melted; 1/4 cup spicy mayo or chipotle sauce; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

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Loaded Cheesy Fries with Spicy Sauce are the ultimate indulgent snack, featuring crispy golden fries smothered in melted cheese and drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce. Perfect for game days, parties, or late-night cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the comforting crunch of fries with rich cheese and a kick of spice that keeps you coming back for more. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for sharing, and totally customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Frozen or fresh-cut French fries
Cheddar cheese (shredded)
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Mayonnaise
Hot sauce or sriracha
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Optional toppings: green onions, jalapeños, crispy bacon bits

Directions

Cook fries according to package instructions or fry fresh potatoes until crispy.
While fries are cooking, mix mayonnaise with hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the spicy sauce.
Once the fries are done, arrange them on a serving tray or oven-safe dish.
Sprinkle generously with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Drizzle spicy sauce over the hot fries.
Add optional toppings if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Loaded Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, and avocado.
Buffalo Style: Use buffalo sauce in place of hot sauce for a tangier flavor.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based mayo.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make fries soggy.

FAQs

Can I use air fryer fries?

Yes, air fryer fries work great and stay crisp.

What’s the best cheese for this dish?

A mix of cheddar and mozzarella offers flavor and meltability.

Is the sauce very spicy?

You can adjust the spice level by using more or less hot sauce.

Can I use frozen fries?

Absolutely, just cook them to your preferred level of crispiness.

How do I prevent soggy fries?

Ensure fries are cooked until golden and crispy before adding cheese and sauce.

What other toppings can I add?

Bacon bits, green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, or guacamole are excellent options.

Can I serve this as a main course?

Yes, add grilled chicken or beef to make it a meal.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free fries and sauce ingredients to ensure it is gluten-free.

How do I make it milder for kids?

Use a mild sauce or omit the hot sauce from the recipe.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheesy Fries with Spicy Sauce are a surefire crowd-pleaser, delivering rich flavor and a perfect mix of textures. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, these fries make any occasion deliciously memorable.