Championship Chili Cheese Fries (Printable)
Golden fries with savory homemade chili and melted cheese, ideal for game day gatherings or a satisfying meal.
# What You Need:
→ For the Fries
01 - 2 pounds russet potatoes, cut into French fry shape
02 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
→ For the Chili
04 - 1 pound ground beef
05 - 1 small onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
08 - 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
09 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
10 - 1 (14-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
11 - 1 tablespoon chili powder
12 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
14 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
15 - 1 teaspoon salt
16 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
17 - 1 cup beef broth
→ For the Cheese Topping
18 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
19 - 2 green onions, sliced
20 - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
# Steps:
01 - Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, toss the cut russet potatoes with vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of salt until evenly coated. Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.
02 - While the fries are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is thoroughly browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
03 - Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the browned ground beef in the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.
04 - Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato paste, drained and rinsed kidney beans, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, optional cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
05 - Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the chili simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring periodically, until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
06 - Once the fries are ready, transfer them to an oven-safe platter or baking dish. Spoon the hot chili evenly over the fries, then generously sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.
07 - Place the platter or dish under a hot broiler for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
08 - Remove from the broiler and garnish the chili cheese fries with sliced green onions and optional chopped fresh cilantro. Serve immediately for best enjoyment.
# Expert Hints:
01 -
- It's the ultimate comfort food that turns any ordinary gathering into a celebration.
- You'll be amazed at how simple it is to create this show-stopping dish that always disappears fast.
02 -
- Pre-soaking your cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking helps remove excess starch, leading to even crispier fries.
- Using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded makes a significant difference in how smoothly and deliciously your cheese topping melts.
03 -
- Always simmer your chili uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes if it seems too thin; this helps it reduce and thicken perfectly.
- Ensure your fries are piping hot when you spoon on the chili and cheese; the residual heat helps the cheese melt beautifully even before broiling.