Crispy Loaded Fries (Print-Friendly Version)

Golden fries smothered in melted cheese, sautéed peppers, and a smoky tangy sauce for rich, satisfying bites.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fries

01 - 4 large russet potatoes
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
07 - ½ teaspoon black pepper

→ Toppings

08 - 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
09 - ½ cup mozzarella cheese
10 - 1 small red onion, finely diced
11 - 1 small green bell pepper, diced
12 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
13 - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
14 - ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
15 - ½ teaspoon dried oregano
16 - ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

→ Sauce

17 - ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
18 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
19 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
20 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
21 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

# How to Make It:

01 - Cut potatoes into thin fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to enhance crispness, then drain and pat dry.
02 - Toss dried potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Preheat oven to 220°C. Spread fries in a single layer on a lined baking tray and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. Alternatively, air fry at 190°C for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket once.
04 - In a pan over medium heat, sauté diced red onion and bell peppers in a little olive oil until soft and slightly caramelized.
05 - Transfer cooked fries to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the top, and bake for 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
06 - Remove fries from oven and immediately top with sautéed vegetables, sliced jalapeños, dried oregano, and chili flakes if desired.
07 - Combine sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl; mix until smooth.
08 - Drizzle sauce over the loaded fries, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve immediately while hot.

# Additional Tips:

01 - For extra crispiness, soak cut potatoes in cold water and consider double-baking the fries by allowing them to cool before the second bake.
02 - Shred cheese fresh to ensure optimal melting without anti-caking agents.