Oh, Loaded Cheese Beef Fries… just saying it makes my mouth water! I remember the first time I made them. It was a Friday night, the kids were begging for something “fun,” and I was staring into a fridge that felt emptier than usual. I saw some ground beef, a lonely bag of frozen steak fries, and a half-eaten block of cheddar. An idea sparked – why not combine everything into one glorious, cheesy mess? It wasn’t pretty, but that first batch of Loaded Cheese Beef Fries was devoured in minutes. That’s how this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries became a staple in our house.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked and perfected my cheesy beef fries recipe. There have been epic fails (burnt cheese, anyone?), but also amazing triumphs. I’ve learned that the key to amazing Loaded Cheese Beef Fries is all in the layering. We’re talking perfectly crisp fries, seasoned ground beef, and enough cheese to make you feel like you’ve won the lottery. It’s the kind of dish that brings smiles, even when the day has been… challenging. The best part is that this loaded fries with ground beef recipe is a crowd-pleaser every single time!

Whether it’s game night, a movie marathon, or just one of those “I need comfort food” evenings, Loaded Cheese Beef Fries always hits the spot. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory maker, a family tradition in the making. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this cheesy, beefy goodness together. I promise, this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries adventure will be delicious!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Remember, the quality of your ingredients will impact the final result, so choose wisely!

1 (28-32 ounce) bag of frozen steak fries – I always use the thick-cut kind for my Loaded Cheese Beef Fries because they hold up better under all that topping, and that reminds me of ingredients in Cane’s fries!
1 pound ground beef – I prefer using 80/20 for the best flavor in my Loaded Cheese Beef Fries, but you can use leaner beef if you prefer. Remember to check out the USDA Ground Beef Information!

1 tablespoon olive oil – This is just for browning the beef, but you can also use vegetable oil or even butter.
1 teaspoon chili powder – Adds a little kick to the beef. Feel free to adjust to your liking.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Because everything is better with garlic!

1/4 teaspoon cumin – Gives it that subtle smoky flavor.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder – Really adds to the overall seasoning.
Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t be shy! Seasoning is key.

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – I always use sharp cheddar in my Loaded Cheese Beef Fries because it melts beautifully and has a great flavor.
Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, sour cream, guacamole, jalapenos – Get creative! Make it your own.
1/4 cup water – Helps to deglaze the pan while cooking the beef.

Spray Oil – Keeps the fries from sticking to the baking sheet.

This cheesy beef fries recipe is completely adaptable, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Sometimes, I even add a little bit of taco seasoning to the beef for an extra layer of flavor. My oldest loves it when I add some diced onions, and my youngest prefers his plain with just cheese. Also, if you want to try something different, consider using pepper jack cheese. It gives these loaded fries with ground beef a little more of a kick.

Also, if you are looking to save a little money, I recommend buying the block cheese and shredding it yourself. It melts so much better than the pre-shredded stuff. Another tip is to buy your ground beef in bulk when it’s on sale and freeze it. These little things can really add up and help you stick to your budget. Before we move on I want to make sure to give you another link to one of my popular recipes for cottage cheese bread recipe.

How to Make – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying your own batch of delicious Loaded Cheese Beef Fries in no time! Make sure you are paying attention to these steps!

Preheat your oven according to the steak fries package instructions. Usually, it’s around 400°F (200°C). While it’s preheating, spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray. I found that this helps the fries from sticking to the pan and ensure that they cook evenly for the most optimal Loaded Cheese Beef Fries experience.
Spread the frozen steak fries in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for the time recommended on the package, usually around 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning, as we are looking for crispy golden fries that will hold up to all the toppings we are going to be putting on them!

While the fries are baking, prepare the ground beef. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Make sure you are regularly breaking up the beef so that it does not become one big clump. Nobody likes that when they are making a Loaded Cheese Beef Fries dish!
Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the spices to bloom. Add 1/4 cup water and bring to a simmer for 5 minutes. The aroma at this point is just incredible! The seasoned ground beef is the star of this cheesy beef fries recipe.
Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven. If your baking sheet is large enough, keep the fries on the sheet. If not, transfer them to a large oven-safe platter. I like to use a pizza pan when I’m making this for a crowd.

Top the fries evenly with the seasoned ground beef. Make sure every fry gets a little bit of beefy goodness. Then, sprinkle generously with the shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t skimp on the cheese! This is the “loaded” part of our Loaded Cheese Beef Fries, after all.
Return the fries to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them so the cheese doesn’t burn. Nobody wants burnt cheese on their best loaded beef fries recipe!
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, sour cream, guacamole, and jalapeños. I usually put out a variety of toppings so everyone can customize their own Loaded Cheese Beef Fries.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “That sounds like a lot of steps!” But trust me, it’s easier than it looks. And the best part is that you can easily adapt this cheesy beef fries recipe to your liking. Don’t have chili powder? Use taco seasoning. Prefer a different kind of cheese? Go for it! The key is to have fun and make it your own. Also, you are welcome to check out the external link on Cheese Facts that I added to give you more details on all the different types of cheese!

Serving & Enjoying Your Cheesy Beef Fries

Serving these Loaded Cheese Beef Fries is always a joyous occasion in our house. The kids gather around, eager to customize their own portions with their favorite toppings. My husband loves his with extra jalapeños, while I prefer mine with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh green onions. This loaded fries with ground beef is great on its own, but you can also serve it alongside a simple salad or some coleslaw.

We often make this chili cheese fries with beef recipe for game night, movie nights, or even just as a special treat on a weekend. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings everyone together. And let me tell you, the compliments I’ve received over the years for this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries recipe have been overwhelming! Everyone always raves about how delicious and satisfying they are.

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in our house!), you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. However, keep in mind that the fries might not be as crispy as they were initially. But even slightly soggy, these Loaded Cheese Beef Fries are still incredibly tasty. You can also try using an air fryer to reheat them; that’s my personal favorite method.

And if you’re looking for a fun way to present these Loaded Cheese Beef Fries, try serving them in individual bowls or ramekins. This makes it easier for everyone to grab their own portion and customize it with their favorite toppings. You can also get creative with the toppings and create a Loaded Cheese Beef Fries bar, complete with different cheeses, sauces, and veggies. That’s always a hit at parties! I hope you will make this recipe for Loaded Cheese Beef Fries and give it a try soon!

FAQs About Loaded Cheese Beef Fries

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some frequently asked questions about making the perfect Loaded Cheese Beef Fries.

Can I use regular fries instead of steak fries for this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries recipe? Absolutely! While I prefer steak fries because they’re thicker and hold up better under all the toppings, regular fries will work just fine. Just keep an eye on them in the oven, as they might cook a bit faster.
Can I make this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries recipe ahead of time? You can definitely prepare the ground beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, I recommend baking the fries and assembling the Loaded Cheese Beef Fries just before serving, so the fries don’t get soggy.
Can I use a different type of cheese for this chili cheese fries with beef? Of course! Cheddar cheese is my go-to, but you can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack. For those who like some heat, pepper jack is an excellent choice for these loaded fries with ground beef.

Can I add beans to this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries recipe? You sure can! Adding a can of drained and rinsed beans (such as kidney beans or black beans) to the ground beef mixture will add some extra flavor and texture. It’ll make it more like a chili cheese fries with beef.
Can I use a slow cooker to cook the ground beef for this best loaded beef fries recipe? Yes, you can! Simply brown the ground beef in a skillet first, then transfer it to a slow cooker. Add the spices and a little bit of water or beef broth, and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
How do I keep the fries from getting soggy when making Loaded Cheese Beef Fries? The key is to make sure the fries are fully cooked and crispy before adding the toppings. Also, avoid overloading the fries with too much sauce or toppings, as this can make them soggy.

Can I freeze these Loaded Cheese Beef Fries? I wouldn’t recommend freezing the assembled Loaded Cheese Beef Fries, as the fries will likely get soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked ground beef mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Closing Thoughts on Loaded Cheese Beef Fries

This Loaded Cheese Beef Fries recipe isn’t just about the food; it’s about the memories we create while enjoying it together. It’s about those Friday night dinners, the laughter around the table, and the feeling of being surrounded by loved ones. That’s why this dish is so special to me. I hope that when you make this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries, you’ll create some wonderful memories of your own.

My Personal Loaded Cheese Beef Fries Tips:

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures that the fries will cook evenly and get nice and crispy.

Use a good quality cheese: It makes all the difference in flavor and meltability.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings: Get creative and add your favorites!

Here are some variations that my family enjoys:

Spicy Loaded Cheese Beef Fries: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture. My husband loves this version!
BBQ Loaded Cheese Beef Fries: Use BBQ sauce instead of chili powder and garlic powder to season the ground beef. Top with some coleslaw for a true BBQ experience.
Pizza Loaded Cheese Beef Fries: Top the fries with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, such as pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives.

No matter how you choose to make them, I hope you enjoy this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries recipe as much as my family does. And remember, cooking is all about having fun and creating something delicious. So don’t be afraid to get a little messy and experiment. You might just surprise yourself with what you can create. So go on, give this Loaded Cheese Beef Fries a try! You won’t regret it.

I hope you enjoy this best loaded beef fries recipe and it becomes a staple for you and your family.

Loaded Cheese Beef Fries

Print Recipe

Indulge in crispy fries piled high with savory seasoned ground beef and smothered in melted cheese. These Loaded Cheese Beef Fries are the perfect comfort food for game day or a casual weeknight meal!

Author: Kiera

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings
Category: Snack
Method: Baked

Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound frozen french fries
1 pound ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sour cream, salsa, jalapeños

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Instructions

Preheat oven according to french fries package directions. Bake fries until crispy.
While fries are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

Stir in chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes more.
Once the fries are cooked, spread them evenly on a large baking sheet.
Top the fries with the seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from oven and top with your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, sour cream, salsa, or jalapeños.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture. You can also use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or queso fresco.