Dirty loaded fries are a fun and tasty treat you can easily make at home! In this post, I’ll share my simple recipe for these flavorful fries, topped with cheese, seasoned meat, and your favorite toppings. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game day or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into the magic of dirty loaded fries!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Dirty Loaded Fries
– 4 large russet potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey
Toppings and Condiments
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup diced green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
Seasonings and Oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Dirty Loaded Fries, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Start with four large russet potatoes. They give the best texture. You’ll also need one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This melts beautifully on top. Next, grab one cup of cooked ground beef or turkey. It adds that meaty flavor we crave.
For toppings, sour cream is a must. A half cup will do. You’ll also want a half cup of diced green onions for a fresh crunch. If you like spice, add a quarter cup of sliced jalapeños. These can be fresh or pickled, based on your taste.
Finally, we have seasonings. You’ll need one teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. These bring out the flavors. Use two tablespoons of olive oil to coat the fries before baking. This helps them get crispy and golden.
This recipe is fun and easy, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. You can find the full recipe to make your own delicious Dirty Loaded Fries.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
– Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Wash and scrub the russet potatoes. Cut them into fry shapes, about 1/4 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly.
Seasoning and Baking
– In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are well coated.
– Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give you crispy and golden fries.
Topping and Serving
– When the fries are done, take them out of the oven. Immediately add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
– Once the cheese is melted, top the loaded fries with 1 cup of warm cooked ground beef, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of diced green onions, and 1/4 cup of sliced jalapeños.
– If you like some heat, drizzle hot sauce over the top. Enjoy this cheesy, meaty goodness! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfectly Crispy Fries
To make your fries crispy, start with the right cut. Cut the potatoes into even pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly. A sharp knife or a fry cutter works best for uniform fries.
For extra crispiness, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes. This removes excess starch. After soaking, dry them well with a towel. Toss the fries in olive oil and seasonings before baking.
When baking, spread the fries in a single layer on your baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate. Flip them halfway through cooking for even browning. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add more fun to your dirty loaded fries with toppings. Try crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch. Diced avocado adds creaminess and freshness.
For sauces, sour cream is a classic choice. It complements the cheese and beef well. Hot sauce is a great way to add spice. Drizzle it over the top for a kick.
Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combo. Each topping can give your fries a new twist. Enjoy the process of making these loaded fries uniquely yours!
Variations
Different Meats for Topping
You can switch up the meat on your Dirty Loaded Fries. Instead of ground beef or turkey, try pulled pork or shredded chicken. Both add a juicy and flavorful twist. For a vegetarian option, black beans or chickpeas work great. They offer protein and a hearty texture. Just heat them up and sprinkle them on top.
Cheese Options
Cheese is key for Dirty Loaded Fries. While cheddar cheese is classic, consider nacho cheese for a creamy texture. Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese. Many brands melt well and taste great. This way, everyone can enjoy these loaded fries!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Dirty Loaded Fries
You can store leftover dirty loaded fries in the fridge. Use an airtight container for best results. They stay fresh for up to three days. When you want to eat them, reheat in the oven. I recommend setting it to 375°F (190°C). Place the fries on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. This way, they stay crispy and tasty.
Freezing Dirty Loaded Fries
You can freeze dirty loaded fries before or after baking them. If you freeze before baking, cut and season the fries first. Spread them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the fries to a freezer bag. If you freeze after baking, use a similar method. Just wait until they cool down before packing.
When you want to cook frozen fries, add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Check for crispiness to make sure they are done. Enjoy your loaded fries anytime!
FAQs
What are Dirty Loaded Fries made of?
Dirty Loaded Fries are a fun, tasty dish. They start with crispy fries made from large russet potatoes. You add layers of flavor with toppings like:
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup diced green onions
– 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
You also use seasonings like garlic powder and onion powder. Olive oil helps make the fries crispy. This mix of hot fries and toppings makes each bite full of taste!
Can I make Dirty Loaded Fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep Dirty Loaded Fries in advance. Start by cutting the potatoes into fry shapes. Toss them with olive oil and seasonings. Then, spread them on a baking sheet. Cover the tray with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to cook, just bake them as directed. This way, you save time and still get crispy fries.
Are Dirty Loaded Fries healthy?
Dirty Loaded Fries can be a bit heavy, but there are ways to make them healthier. You can use ground turkey instead of beef. This swaps in less fat. You can also use less cheese or switch to a lighter cheese. Adding veggies like tomatoes or lettuce can boost their nutrition. Enjoy them as an occasional treat, and feel free to make smart swaps!
Dirty loaded fries are a fun dish made from four simple russet potatoes. You bake them with tasty seasonings and top them with cheese, ground meat, and your favorite condiments.
You can make this dish your own by choosing different meats or cheeses. Storing leftovers and freezing them for later is easy too. Enjoy creating your own version of dirty loaded fries. It’s simple and satisfying!
