These Cheesy Ranch Fries are a deliciously indulgent snack or side dish that combines crispy, seasoned fries with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topped with ranch dressing and a flavorful blend of spices, this dish is a real crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a savory treat, these fries are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of crispy fries, savory ranch seasoning, and gooey melted cheese makes these fries irresistible. The brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness, while the garlic, onion, chili powder, paprika, and pepper create a perfect balance of flavors. The creamy cheese sauce takes these fries to the next level, and a drizzle of ranch dressing gives them an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Fries:
- 28–32 oz frozen French fries
- 1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons ranch dressing, plus more for dipping
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ⅔ cup milk
- 2 cups medium cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
For the Fries:
- Prepare the Fries: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the frozen fries package. Spread the fries in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake according to the package directions, usually about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Season the Fries: While the fries are baking, in a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the Fries: Once the fries are done baking, remove them from the oven. Immediately toss the fries in the seasoning mixture to coat them evenly. Drizzle with 4 tablespoons of ranch dressing and toss again.
For the Cheese Sauce:
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute, until it forms a smooth roux.
- Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to whisk. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Melt the Cheese: Lower the heat and add the freshly shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Assemble the Fries:
- Top the Fries: Place the seasoned fries on a serving plate or dish. Drizzle the cheese sauce over the fries, making sure to cover them generously.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy ranch fries immediately, with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, depending on portion size.
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 25-30 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Fries: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
- Other Cheese: Swap the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Top the fries with crispy beef bits, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of cilantro for extra flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftover fries and cheese sauce can be stored in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the fries in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to crisp them up. Warm the cheese sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh fries. Just cut the potatoes into thin strips, season, and bake or fry them until golden and crispy.
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the cheese sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
Can I use other dips instead of ranch?
Yes, you can serve these fries with other dips such as sour cream, blue cheese dressing, or even guacamole for a fun twist.
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
How do I make sure the fries stay crispy?
To keep the fries crispy, be sure to bake them in a single layer and toss them immediately after baking while they’re still hot. Avoid covering them as this can cause them to steam.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Ranch Fries are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy fries, flavorful seasoning, and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re serving them as a snack, side dish, or appetizer, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Customize them with your favorite toppings and dipping sauces for a personalized twist!
Print
Cheesy Ranch Fries
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Ranch Fries are crispy, seasoned fries topped with a creamy cheese sauce and tangy ranch dressing. This indulgent snack or side dish is perfect for parties, movie nights, or as a savory treat.
Ingredients
- 28–32 oz frozen French fries
- 1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tablespoons ranch dressing, plus more for dipping
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- ⅔ cup milk
- 2 cups medium cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven according to the frozen fries package instructions. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake according to package directions, about 20-25 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- While the fries bake, mix the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and immediately toss them in the seasoning mixture. Drizzle with 4 tablespoons of ranch dressing and toss again.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute until smooth. Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Lower the heat, add the shredded cheddar cheese, and stir until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If too thick, add more milk to adjust the consistency.
- Place the seasoned fries on a serving dish and drizzle the cheese sauce generously over them.
- Serve immediately with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mixture.
- Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Top the fries with crispy beef bits, chopped green onions, or cilantro for extra texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
