There’s something undeniably satisfying about diving into a plate of chili cheese fries. This dish, a harmonious blend of crispy fries, savory chili, and melted cheese, is the epitome of comfort food. But what elevates our recipe above the rest is the attention to detail and the quality of ingredients that ensure each bite is as delightful as the last.
Who This Recipe is For
Whether you’re a casual cook looking to impress at your next gathering or a food enthusiast craving a hearty meal, this chili cheese fries recipe is for you. It’s designed for those who appreciate the joy of eating and sharing good food, with steps that are easy to follow, ensuring success for cooks of any level.
Why Chili Cheese Fries Are Great
Chili cheese fries are more than just a guilty pleasure; they’re a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste. Perfect for game day gatherings, family movie nights, or as a comfort meal after a long day, this dish brings smiles and satisfaction to any occasion.
Ingredients
To make delicious chili cheese fries at home, you’ll need to prepare chili, cook fries, and then combine them with cheese. Here’s a straightforward recipe to guide you through the process:
Fries:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into strips
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste
Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Jalapeños, sliced (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
- Chopped green onions (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
You won’t need anything fancy to make this dish come to life. A baking sheet, skillet, cheese grater, and a few basic kitchen tools will get the job done efficiently.
How To Make Chili Cheese Fries Recipe
Prepare the Fries:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the potato strips in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt.
Make the Chili:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assemble the Chili Cheese Fries:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the cooked fries in a baking dish or on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Pour the chili over the fries and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
- Garnish with jalapeños, sour cream, and green onions if desired.
How To Store Leftovers
- Allow the leftover chili cheese fries to cool completely at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
- Transfer the fries to an airtight container or wrap them tightly with aluminum foil.
- Place the container in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
- Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the leftover chili cheese fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Heat in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the fries in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking periodically to ensure they are heated evenly.
FAQs
What are chili cheese fries made of?
Chili cheese fries are made of three key components: crispy fried potatoes, hearty chili, and melted cheese, often garnished with toppings like green onions or sour cream.
What cheese does Sonic use on their chili cheese fries?
Sonic’s chili cheese fries are known for their melty cheese blend, which is similar to a cheddar cheese sauce, offering a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the savory chili.
What is the best store-bought cheese for chili cheese fries?
The best store-bought cheese for chili cheese fries is a toss-up between sharp cheddar for its melting qualities and flavor and a smooth processed cheese sauce for convenience and creaminess.
How are chili cheese fries unhealthy?
People often deem chili cheese fries unhealthy due to their high calorie, fat, and sodium content. Despite this, one can still enjoy them in moderation or modify them with healthier ingredients and cooking techniques.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this delicious recipe. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more tantalizing recipes and cooking tips.