Irresistible Homemade Chili Cheese Fries: A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite!

Name: Homemade Chili Cheese Fries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large washed and cut into fries russet potato; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 pound of ground beef; 1 diced onion; 3 cloves of minced garlic; 15 ounces of drained and rinsed red kidney beans; 14 ounces of diced tomato; 2 tablespoons of tomato paste; 2 teaspoons of chili powder; 1 teaspoon of paprika; 1 teaspoon of cumin; 1 cup of beef broth; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Experience the mouthwatering delight of our Chili Cheese Fries. Crispy fries topped with savory homemade chili and melted cheese - it's a taste sensation that's perfect for any occasion!

American Cuisine

October 25, 2023

Difficulty Medium

Servings 4 people

Preparation 20 mins

Cooking 45 mins

Total 65 mins

Recipe Contents

Ingredients Directions Nutrition Equipments Tips

Ingredients

4 large washed and cut into fries russet potato
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 pound of ground beef
1 diced onion
3 cloves of minced garlic
15 ounces of drained and rinsed red kidney beans
14 ounces of diced tomato
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
2 teaspoons of chili powder
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of cumin
1 cup of beef broth
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Directions

Prepare the Fries

Preheat your oven to 425 °F (220 °C).
Place the cut fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Toss to coat evenly, and spread them out in a single layer.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Make the Chili

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned.
Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Pour in the broth, and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chili has thickened.

Assemble

Once the fries are done, take them out of the oven but leave the oven on.
Spread the chili over the fries.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Place the baking sheet back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Serve hot, and enjoy your homemade Chili Cheese Fries!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 Homemade Chili Cheese Fries

Serves 4

Amount Per Serving

Calories600

% Daily Value*

Protein 25 g50%

Total Fat 30 g38.5%

*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Tips

Potato Choice: Use russet potatoes for the best results as they are starchy and will create a crispy exterior while staying fluffy inside. For more, check out our ‘Types of Potatoes’ article.
Cutting Fries: Try to cut your fries in a uniform size to ensure even cooking.
Oil Coverage: Make sure each fry is well-coated with oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Chili Consistency: If your chili is too thick, you can add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of cheddar and pepper jack adds a nice kick of spice. For more, check out our ‘Types of Cheeses’ article.
Beef or Chicken: You can use ground beef or chicken meat to make chili.
Toppings: Customize your Chili Cheese Fries with various toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream.
Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately while the fries are hot and crispy for the best experience.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store the chili and fries separately to keep the fries from getting soggy. Reheat the fries in the oven to crisp them back up.

Rate This Recipe

Craving something indulgent, savory, and utterly delicious? Look no further than this homemade Chili Cheese Fries recipe! These are crispy, golden fries generously coated with hearty chili and topped with a rich layer of melted cheese.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our mouth-watering Chili Cheese Fries recipe. It is perfect for satisfying late-night cravings or adding some delectable excitement to your gatherings. Chili Cheese Fries are a crowd-pleaser that promises savory satisfaction with every bite. Dive into a plate of cheesy goodness, perfect for sharing, but so tasty you may want it all to yourself!

Equipment for this recipe

Measuring Cup

Mixing Bowls

Cutting Board

Baking Set

Chef Knife

The Origin of Chili Cheese Fries

Chili Cheese Fries have a somewhat debated history, with multiple people and places claiming to have invented this indulgent dish. Some say it originated in the Southern United States, while others believe it has roots in the Southwest. Regardless of its exact origin, it's widely agreed that Chili Cheese Fries have become a beloved comfort food across America.

The dish combines crispy french fries with hearty chili and a generous helping of melted cheese, creating a blend of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. Over the years, many variations have emerged, incorporating different types of chili, cheese, and additional toppings. This versatility is one of the reasons why Chili Cheese Fries have maintained their popularity for so long.

Variations of the Recipe

When it comes to Chili Cheese Fries, the possibilities for customization are nearly endless. In some regions, you might find the dish topped with green chili, while in others, it could feature a spicier, meatier chili. Some variations even include additional toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or bacon, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Vegetarians can enjoy this dish as well by substituting the meat-based chili with a vegetarian-friendly option. And for those looking for a healthier take on this classic, there are recipes available that utilize baked fries and lighter versions of chili. No matter your dietary preferences or restrictions, there's a version of Chili Cheese Fries out there for you.

Serving and Enjoying Your Dish

Chili Cheese Fries are best served fresh out of the oven when the fries are at their crispiest and the cheese is perfectly melted. It’s a dish that’s meant to be enjoyed immediately, making it a great option for gatherings, parties, or a fun family dinner. The dish’s hearty nature also makes it a filling option, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.

Here are our delicious recipes that you can serve with Chili Cheese Fries:

To take your Chili Cheese Fries to the next level, consider pairing them with a cool, refreshing beverage. A light beer or a soda can help balance out the richness of the dish, creating a satisfying dining experience. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a plate of delicious, homemade Chili Cheese Fries. Enjoy!

What Are Chili Cheese Fries Made Of?

Chili cheese fries are made of a few delicious and hearty components that come together to create a flavorful and indulgent dish. Here's a breakdown of what chili cheese fries are typically made of:

French Fries: The base of the dish, usually made from potatoes that are cut into strips, deep-fried until crispy, and then seasoned with salt. Some recipes might call for baked fries as a healthier alternative.
Chili: A savory and sometimes spicy stew made with meat (usually ground beef), beans, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. There are many regional variations of chili, and some recipes might use a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Typically, shredded cheddar or a blend of cheeses is used, which is melted over the hot fries and chili. Some recipes might use a cheese sauce instead.
Optional Toppings: Additional toppings might include chopped onions, jalapeños, sour cream, or fresh herbs like cilantro to add extra flavor and texture to the dish.

How Long Can You Leave Chili Cheese Fries Out?

Chili cheese fries, like other perishable foods, should not be left out at room temperature for extended periods. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), perishable foods should not be left out for more than two hours at room temperature, or one hour if the temperature is above 90 °F (32 °C).

Chili cheese fries contain ingredients that are susceptible to bacterial growth, such as cheese and meat, which can lead to foodborne illnesses if consumed after being left out for too long. To ensure food safety:

Refrigerate Promptly: If you have leftover chili cheese fries, it's best to refrigerate them promptly in an airtight container.

Proper Storage: Make sure your refrigerator is set at 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Reheating: When reheating, ensure that the chili cheese fries reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria.

If you are unsure whether the chili cheese fries have been left out for too long, it's safer to err on the side of caution and dispose of them rather than risk food poisoning. Remember, when it comes to food safety, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Recipe byPetite Gourmets