Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes: Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries! Picture this: crispy fries piled high with savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and extra crispy bacon, all topped with fresh green onions and a sprinkle of lettuce. It’s like a cheeseburger and fries had a delicious love child, and I cannot get enough of it!
Every time I make these, I’m transported to weekends filled with friends, laughter, and the thrill of a Saturday night game on TV. There’s just something so satisfying about digging into a heaping plate of these bad boys while cheering on my favorite team. Whether it’s for a casual movie night or a game day feast, these Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries are always a hit—and they’re super easy to whip up, too!
What’s in Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries?
Now, let’s break down the stars of our show, shall we? Here’s what you’ll need:
Russet Potatoes: The backbone of our fries. I love using large russet potatoes because they yield that perfect fluffy interior with a nice crispy exterior.
Olive Oil: Just a couple of tablespoons to help our fries crisp up beautifully. You can use any high-quality olive oil you love.
Salt and Pepper: The classic seasoning duo! Feel free to go heavy or light on these depending on your taste buds.
Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle brings the flavor up a notch without any fussing over chopping fresh garlic—my kind of cooking!
Ground Beef: The heart of our loaded fries! I usually grab 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
Onion Powder: Adds a nice depth to the beef. I love the convenience of it—no chopping necessary!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: It wouldn’t be bacon cheeseburger fries without plenty of melty cheddar. I always opt for sharp cheddar for that extra punch.
Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon takes these fries over the top. Because let’s be honest, everything is better with bacon!
Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
Lettuce: I like to use this as a garnish; it adds a lovely freshness to the dish.
Optional: Ketchup and Mustard: Feel free to serve these traditional burger condiments on the side for extra flavor.
Is Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries Good for You?
Alright, let’s chat about health. While I won’t claim that Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries are a superfood, there are definitely some ingredients that bring a bit of nutrition to the mix:
Potatoes: They’re high in potassium and vitamin C. Plus, when you bake them instead of frying, they’re significantly lighter in calories.
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, ground beef can contribute to a balanced diet. Just keep an eye on the fat content you’re choosing.
Bacon: Okay, bacon is definitely more of a treat than a health food, but in moderation, it’s not all bad! Just remember to keep those portions in check.
In summary, these loaded fries are gloriously indulgent but can fit into a balanced diet when you enjoy them occasionally.
How to Make Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries?
Ready to make your kitchen smell heavenly? Here’s how you whip up these fries:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Trust me; the higher temperature is the secret to crispy fries.
2. Start by washing and peeling your russet potatoes. Cut them up into fries and toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until they’re well-coated.
3. Spread those seasoned fries out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake away for about 25-30 minutes, giving them a turn halfway through to ensure they crisp up beautifully.
4. While those bad boys are baking, grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef with some onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked—about 7-10 minutes—and drain any excess fat.
5. When the fries are golden, sprinkle the cooked ground beef evenly over them. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
6. Pop the loaded fries back in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melting and bubbly. Heaven!
7. Let them cool for a couple of minutes (if you can resist that long), then top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of lettuce for freshness.
8. Serve immediately, and don’t forget the ketchup and mustard on the side!
Fries, Friends, and Food Variations!
These Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries are fantastic as is, but I totally encourage you to get creative! Here’s how you can make them your own:
– **Add Jalapeños:** If you like a little spice, slice some jalapeños on top before baking.
– **Different Cheeses:** Mix it up with pepper jack for a south-of-the-border twist or use mozzarella for a gooey texture.
– **Zesty Touch:** Toss on some diced tomatoes or pickles after pulling them from the oven for an extra burst of flavor.
I encourage you to give these Loaded Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Fries a try! Trust me, of all the recipes you could try, these are bound to become a favorite. Share your experiences, and let’s drool over all of our cheesy, bacon-laden goodness together! Happy cooking! 🍟✨
