These Loaded Chili Cheese Fries with Jalapeños are a next-level snack, combining crispy golden fries with hearty chili, melted cheese, and a spicy kick from jalapeños. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or when you’re just craving something deliciously indulgent, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to satisfy!
Key Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Number of Servings: 4-6 servings
- Serving Size: 1-2 handfuls of fries with toppings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 22g
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on toppings and portions.)
Ingredients List
For the Chili
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1/2 cup (120g) diced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz or 425g) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz or 425g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Fries and Toppings
- 1 bag (450g or 1 lb) frozen French fries or homemade fries
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup (30g) pickled jalapeño slices (more to taste)
- 1/4 cup (30g) chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup (30g) sour cream
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
Detailed Method of Preparation
Prepare the Fries:
Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the package if using frozen fries, or to 220°C (425°F) for homemade fries. Spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden, flipping halfway through.Make the Chili:
While the fries are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.Add Aromatics and Seasonings:
Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef, and sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the beef.Add Tomatoes and Beans:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and kidney beans. Let the chili simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove from heat and set aside.Assemble the Chili Cheese Fries:
Once the fries are crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to an oven-safe platter or baking sheet if they’re not already on one. Spoon the chili evenly over the fries.Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili-covered fries. Place the fries back in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.Add Toppings:
Remove the chili cheese fries from the oven and top with pickled jalapeño slices, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of sour cream. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.Serve Hot:
Serve immediately with extra sour cream or hot sauce on the side for dipping!
Tips for Culinary Success
Make It Vegetarian:
For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and double the beans, or add black beans in addition to the kidney beans for extra protein.Try Different Cheeses:
Cheddar is classic, but you can also use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack (for more spice), or a mix of cheeses for added flavor.Adjust the Spice Level:
Control the spice by adjusting the amount of chili powder in the chili and the number of jalapeño slices on top. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the chili for extra heat.Crispy Fries Tip:
To make extra-crispy fries, toss them in a little cornstarch before baking or use an air fryer for an even crunchier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought chili for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned or store-bought chili works as a great substitute. Simply heat it up and pour over the fries before adding cheese and baking.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free fries and double-check that your canned tomatoes and beans do not contain any additives with gluten.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can make the chili ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply bake the fries, warm up the chili, and assemble everything just before eating to keep the fries from getting soggy.