Loaded Dirty Fries with Melty Cheese and Spice Recipe
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!
- Author: reem
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer/Snack
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve Immediately: Dirty Fries are best enjoyed hot and fresh! Serve them straight from the baking dish and dig in.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Dirty Fries, Loaded Fries, Appetizer, Snack, Comfort Food