Introduction
Get ready to elevate your game day experience with these indulgent Game Day Loaded Garlic Fries with Cheesy Bacon! These fries are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining crispy golden potatoes with a burst of savory garlic flavor, topped off with gooey melted cheese and crispy bacon bits. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team, hosting a lively watch party, or just craving a delicious snack, these loaded fries are the perfect finger food to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make and can be whipped up in no time, allowing you to focus on the important things—like the big game and spending time with friends. So grab your oven mitts and prepare for a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds)! Let’s dive into the recipe and bring the taste of the stadium right to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crispy cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
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- Rinse the potatoes well and slice them into thin fries, about 1/4 inch thick.
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- In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the cut fries with olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, ensuring they are well-coated.
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- Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
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- Once the fries are ready, take them out of the oven and evenly distribute shredded cheddar cheese on top. Put them back in the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- Gently remove the loaded fries from the oven and top with the crispy bacon bits and sliced green onions.
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- Pour the sour cream and ranch dressing over the fries or offer them on the side for dipping.
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- If you like, finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve while hot, enjoying the praise for your tasty dish!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Fries: 4 large russet potatoes or 1 bag of frozen French fries
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for drizzling
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- Bacon: 6-8 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Green Onions: ¼ cup, sliced for garnish
- Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped for garnish
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Optional: Hot sauce or ranch dressing for serving
Baking Process
Follow these steps to create perfectly crispy and flavorful Game Day Loaded Garlic Fries with Cheesy Bacon:
Ingredients Needed:
- Frozen or fresh fries (your choice)
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream or ranch dressing for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures your fries will come out crispy.
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Prepare the Fries: If you’re using frozen fries, spread them out evenly on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you’re making fresh fries, cut them into even sticks and soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain well, pat them dry, and place them on the baking sheet.
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Add Butter and Garlic: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this garlic butter mixture over the fries, ensuring they are evenly coated. Toss the fries to distribute the garlic butter evenly.
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Bake the Fries: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the fries for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Check for a golden brown color and crispy texture.
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Add the Toppings: Once the fries are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon generously over the fries, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove the loaded fries from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Sprinkle with fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with a side of sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping.
Enjoy!
Your Game Day Loaded Garlic Fries with Cheesy Bacon are now ready to be devoured! Perfect for sharing (or not) while you watch the game. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy fries, rich garlic flavor, savory bacon, and gooey cheese!
Serving Suggestions
These Game Day Loaded Garlic Fries with Cheesy Bacon are the perfect addition to any gathering, especially during game day. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:
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Dipping Sauces: Pair your loaded fries with a variety of dipping sauces like spicy ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, or sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
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Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings bar with extra cheese, jalapeños, green onions, or even guacamole. Let your guests customize their fries to their liking!
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Side Dishes: Serve the fries alongside classic game day staples like buffalo wings, sliders, or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
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Beverage Pairings: Enjoy these loaded fries with an ice-cold beer, refreshing lemonade, or a zesty margarita to complement the flavors.
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Garnish Options: Finish off your fries with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
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Presentation: Serve the fries on a large platter or in individual baskets lined with parchment paper for a fun, casual touch that’s perfect for entertaining.
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Game Day Themes: Customize your presentation and toppings according to your favorite team’s colors or mascot for an extra festive touch!
With these suggestions, your Game Day Loaded Garlic Fries with Cheesy Bacon will not only taste amazing but will also be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy!
Conclusion
Game Day Loaded Garlic Fries with Cheesy Bacon are the perfect way to elevate your snack game while cheering on your favorite team. With their crispy edges, rich garlic flavor, and indulgent toppings of melted cheese and savory bacon, these fries are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a watch party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these loaded fries offer the ultimate comfort food experience. Plus, they’re easy to customize—add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing to make them your own.
So, gather your friends, grab some fries, and get ready to dive into this delicious treat. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these mouthwatering fries that will have everyone begging for more. Don’t forget, the key to a great game day experience is not just the food, but the memories you make while sharing it with loved ones. Happy snacking!
