Description
The ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or fun dinner. Piled high with savory taco-seasoned beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a vibrant medley of fresh toppings, these fries offer a perfect contrast between a sturdy, golden potato base and saucy, flavor-packed beef.
Ingredients
The Foundation
- 1 lb frozen French fries (crinkle-cut or steak fries)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
The Taco Topping
- 1 lb ground beef (90/10 lean)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, thoroughly drained
- 1/2 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely diced
- Optional: Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños
Instructions
Bake: Bake fries in a single layer until very crispy and golden.
Beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain fat. Stir in taco seasoning and drained tomatoes; simmer 2-3 mins.
Assemble: Spread beef over the crispy fries and top with cheddar cheese.
Melt: Return to the oven for 4-5 mins until cheese is bubbly.
Garnish: Top with red onions, cilantro, and your favorite extras before serving.
Notes
Prevent the Sog: Drainage is key; excess fat or tomato juice will make the fries mushy.
Fry Selection: Opt for crinkle-cut or waffle fries for better structural integrity.
Cheese Quality: Grate cheddar from a block for a better melt, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-clumping starch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Dinner
- Method: Sheet-Pan / Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 820
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 11
- Unsaturated Fat: 17
- Trans Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 26
- Cholesterol: 75
Keywords: taco loaded fries, sheet pan taco fries, cheesy loaded fries, easy game day appetizers, taco seasoned ground beef fries, mexican style french fries, loaded nacho fries