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### **Instructions**
#### **1. Prepare the Fries**
Start by cooking the French fries. If you’re using frozen fries, follow the package instructions for baking or frying. For the best results, bake them in the oven for a crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), and bake the fries for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
If you’re making fries from scratch, peel and cut potatoes into thin strips, then deep fry or bake them until golden and crispy.
#### **2. Cook the Ground Beef**
While the fries are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s fully browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet. Add the taco seasoning (or your preferred seasoning mix) along with a splash of water to help the spices adhere to the beef. Stir to combine, then let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.
#### **3. Assemble the Fries**
Once the fries are ready, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish. Spread them out in an even layer.
Top the fries with the cooked ground beef, ensuring an even distribution of the beef over the fries.
#### **4. Add the Cheese**
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese) over the beef and fries. The cheese will melt as the dish bakes, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
#### **5. Bake**
Place the assembled fries back into the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. You can also broil the dish for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden, slightly crispy cheese crust.
#### **6. Add the Toppings**
Once the cheesy loaded beef fries are out of the oven, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Top the dish with your desired toppings—sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, bacon bits, diced tomatoes, and any other ingredients you love.
#### **7. Serve and Enjoy**
Serve the cheesy loaded beef fries immediately, while they’re hot and cheesy. For extra flavor, you can drizzle salsa or guacamole over the top. Enjoy this indulgent, comforting dish with your family and friends!
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## **Creative Variations and Additions**
**Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries** can be adapted in countless ways to suit different tastes, preferences, or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
### **1. Spicy Loaded Beef Fries**
If you love heat, add extra spicy toppings like diced fresh jalapeños, a sprinkle of chili powder, or a drizzle of hot sauce over the finished dish. You can also use spicy cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese for an added kick.
### **2. Vegetarian Loaded Fries**
For a vegetarian version of this dish, swap out the ground beef for a plant-based protein like black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like Beyond Beef. You can also load the fries up with extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions for a healthier twist.
### **3. BBQ Beef Fries**
For a smoky, tangy flavor, try using shredded or chopped BBQ beef instead of ground beef. The BBQ sauce will add a rich, caramelized flavor that complements the crispy fries and melty cheese.
### **4. Breakfast-Style Loaded Fries**
For a fun breakfast variation, top your loaded fries with cooked scrambled eggs, crumbled breakfast sausage, and shredded cheese. You can even drizzle some hollandaise sauce over the top for a decadent touch.
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## **Conclusion: A Dish That Has It All**
**Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries** are the ultimate comfort food. With a base of crispy French fries, savory seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese, they’re a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, as an appetizer, or for a party, these loaded fries are guaranteed to be a hit.
What’s more, they’re incredibly customizable, allowing you to add or subtract toppings based on your preferences. From extra cheese and spicy jalapeños to fresh tomatoes and cool sour cream, the possibilities are
endless. So next time you’re looking for a hearty, indulgent treat, try making **Cheesy Loaded Beef Fries**—you won’t regret it!
