Chili cheese fries are the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy fries, hearty chili, and gooey melted cheese into one irresistible dish. Whether you’re craving a snack, a party appetizer, or a fun meal, making chili cheese fries at home is simpler than you might think. This article will walk you through the steps to create mouthwatering chili cheese fries from scratch, with tips to customize and elevate your creation.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Chili Cheese Fries
For the Chili
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean works great)
– 1/2 cup finely diced onion
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (do not drain)
– 2 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (adds depth)
– 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt (divided use)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
For the Fries and Toppings
– 32 ounces frozen French fries (or homemade fries if you prefer)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or any favorites
– Cooking spray or oil for baking
Step-by-Step Directions to Chili Cheese Fries Perfection
1. Make the Chili
Start by heating a teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Drain excess grease for a leaner chili.
Next, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Let the chili cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens nicely. Then add the kidney beans and simmer for another 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
2. Prepare the Fries
While the chili simmers, preheat your oven and prepare the fries. Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake according to the package instructions until golden and crispy.
Once cooked, turn your oven temperature to 400°F (about 200°C) to melt the cheese later.
3. Assemble and Bake
Spread the crispy fries evenly on a baking sheet or transfer them to a skillet for a more rustic presentation. Spoon about 1 1/2 cups of the hot chili over the fries, then generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Return the fries to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Add Your Favorite Toppings
Once out of the oven, add any toppings you love—cool sour cream, sliced green onions, jalapeños for heat, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Tips for Making Your Chili Cheese Fries Even Better
– Use homemade fries: If you want to skip frozen fries, cut russet potatoes into fries, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to remove starch, dry thoroughly, toss with oil and seasonings, then roast at 425°F until crispy.
– Customize your chili: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or make it vegetarian by using beans and vegetables only.
– Cheese choices: Cheddar is classic, but pepper jack or a blend of cheeses can add exciting flavors.
– Make it spicy: Add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to your chili for a smoky kick.
– Use an air fryer: For extra crispy fries, air fry them at 400°F for about 15 minutes before adding chili and cheese.
Why Make Chili Cheese Fries at Home?
Making chili cheese fries yourself means you control the ingredients, flavors, and portion sizes. It’s a fun, satisfying dish that can be customized to your taste. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family during game day or casual get-togethers.
With a little prep and patience, you’ll have a restaurant-quality snack that’s warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. And the best part? Leftover chili can be used for other meals, so nothing goes to waste.
Chili cheese fries are a crowd-pleaser that bring comfort and joy in every bite. Now that you know how to make them, it’s time to get cooking and indulge in this classic treat!