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Loaded Dirty Fries with Melty Cheese and Spice Recipe

Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches for a complete meal Recipe

5 from 27 reviews

Learn how to make irresistibly delicious Dirty Fries with crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, flavorful toppings, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for a fun snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fries:

  • 4 large russet potatoes (or frozen fries for convenience)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Toppings:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fries: Cut the Potatoes: If using fresh potatoes, cut them into thin fries and soak them in cold water for 30 minutes (optional, but helps make them extra crispy). Season the Fries: Drain and pat the potatoes dry. Toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Bake or Air-Fry: Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the fries in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
  3. Prepare the Toppings: Sauté the Onions and Peppers: In a pan over medium heat, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers with a little olive oil until soft and slightly caramelized.
  4. Assemble the Dirty Fries: Melt the Cheese: Once the fries are crispy, transfer them to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted and bubbly. Add the Toppings: Remove from the oven and immediately top with the sautéed onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, dried oregano, and chili flakes (if using).
  5. Prepare the Sauce: Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. Drizzle Over Fries: Drizzle the sauce over the loaded fries and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Serve Immediately: Dirty Fries are best enjoyed hot and fresh! Serve them straight from the baking dish and dig in.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dirty Fries, Loaded Fries, Appetizer, Snack, Comfort Food