This easy Homemade Cheese Fries Recipe is a rich and creamy indulgence—perfect for parties and game days!
I live in Wisconsin, where bars punctuate practically every block. You think I’m joking? There’s a dive aptly named the Dugout at the end of my street, a great pitstop before heading to the Brewers’ stadium. Oh, and there’s more—at least three within walking distance from my house. I remember being somewhat surprised when I left for college and discovered that most states don’t share Wisconsin’s affinity for beer, bratwurst, and more beer.
One of the staple apps, whether it’s a dive bar or one of the countless microbreweries sprouting throughout the states like wild hops, is cheese fries. Some get all fancy with chopped bacon, chives, and hot sauce, while other menus keep things simple. Either way, you’re guaranteed the perfect pairing for beer-guzzling.
This homemade cheese fries recipe is a simple take on a tried-and-true app, one that’s a mainstay in my home. And why wouldn’t it be? All you have to do is bake some fries and then pour cheddar cheese sauce all over those spuds. So simple!
My kids love cheese fries for movie and game nights, and the stress-free prep makes it easy for parties. It’s crispy, salty, and creamy—a veritable, no-fuss crowd-pleaser. Just be sure to stock up on your favorite beverage. You’re going to be thirsty.
Are These Homemade Cheese Fries Healthy?
Well, it’s no salad. While we’re not deep-frying the fries, frozen French fries vary in fat content. Some brands add more oil than others. Honestly, the extra oil helps the fries turn out crispier in your oven, which I prefer. However, check the nutrition facts on your fries if you’d like less oil.
Of course, the primary caloric culprit is the cheese sauce. You can try using reduced-fat cheddar cheese and 2% milk, but I’d stop there. Using 1% or skim milk would make the sauce too watery.
Want a plant-based option? Stick with a vegan cheese brand that’s known for its creaminess. Speaking of creamy, use either oat or cashew milk so the sauce gets thick enough.
Finding The Right Fries
Not all fries are created equal, at least for this recipe. For example, shoestring fries, while my favorite, definitely don’t hold up to that piping hot cheese sauce. Steak fries aren’t great either and turn into a soggy mess. You need a thick yet crispy option that’ll hold up against the sauce—that’s where crinkle fries rule. Although waffle fries are a close second. They crisp up nicely, and their ridges handle the sauce like a champ.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To be frank, this isn’t one of those recipes that makes good leftovers. Eventually, the fries (even crinkly ones) will give way to the sauce and lose their structural integrity. Although the one time I had leftovers, I did like eating them cold. So, in the rare event you even have any left, refrigerate the fries for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheese fries along with other classic apps like Jalapeño Poppers and Pigs In A Blanket. It’s also delicious as a side for Baked Hamburgers or Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs With Salsa Verde And Queso Fresco. And for the kids (and kids-at-heart), serve Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Tenders with a side of Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen French fries
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the frozen French fries according to the package instructions until they are crispy and golden brown.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk to the roux while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Arrange the cooked fries on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Generously drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the fries, and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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