Name: Loaded Cheese Fries Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Potatoes; 1 bag frozen French fries or 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries; Beef; ½ lb ground beef; Seasonings; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Cheese & Dairy; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup sour cream; Toppings; ¼ cup diced red onion; ¼ cup chopped tomatoes; 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s easy, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. The contrast between crunchy fries, savory beef, and creamy toppings creates big flavor in every bite. I also like that it comes together quickly, making it ideal for game nights, movie nights, or relaxed gatherings.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 bag frozen French fries or 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
1/2 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onions

Directions

I begin by preheating the oven to 425°F so it’s hot enough to crisp the fries properly. I spread the fries out in a single layer on a sheet pan and bake them for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.

While the fries bake, I heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. I season it with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring until fully cooked. I drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Once the fries are done, I transfer them to an oven-safe dish. I sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the fries, then layer the seasoned beef on top. I return the dish to the oven for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.

I finish by drizzling sour cream over the hot fries and scattering red onion, tomatoes, and parsley or green onions on top. I serve them immediately while everything is hot and melty.

Servings and Timing

I get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook time is about 30 minutes.
Total time comes to roughly 45 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add sliced jalapeños for heat or swap cheddar for a cheese blend. When I want extra richness, I drizzle warm cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese. I’ve also topped these with bacon bits or avocado for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

I find these best served fresh, but I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I use the oven or air fryer to help the fries crisp back up instead of using the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use homemade fries instead of frozen?

I often do, and I just make sure they’re dried well before baking so they crisp nicely.

What kind of beef works best?

I like lean ground beef, but any ground beef works as long as I drain excess fat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I prepare the beef in advance, but I assemble and bake the fries just before serving.

Is this dish gluten-free?

I make sure the fries and seasonings are gluten-free, and then it works perfectly.

What dips go well with loaded fries?

I like serving them with extra sour cream, ranch, or a spicy sauce on the side.

Conclusion

I find these Loaded Cheese Fries with Beef to be the ultimate comfort snack. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making them a go-to recipe whenever I want something fun, filling, and guaranteed to disappear fast.