Super Bowl Cheese Fries

The smell of turkey bacon sizzling in the kitchen during a Super Bowl party will always take me back to that apartment above the garage where eight of us crowded around a 32-inch TV. We had limited cooking equipment but somehow managed to turn frozen fries into something legendary. Now I make these properly baked from scratch, and my friends actually request them over takeout every single year.

Last year I made three batches because the first one vanished before kickoff. My brother stood by the oven literally waiting for the cheese to bubble. Now I double it automatically and nobody complains about leftovers because there never are any.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes: Russets have the perfect starch content to get those crispy edges while staying fluffy inside
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Toss the fries really thoroughly so every single piece gets coated evenly for maximum crunch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a subtle savory backbone that makes people wonder what your secret is
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The smokiness pairs beautifully with turkey bacon and gives the fries that gorgeous golden color
• 1 teaspoon salt: Season aggressively because potatoes need proper seasoning to shine
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a little warmth that cuts through the rich cheese
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that classic tangy flavor everyone expects on loaded fries
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: This melts into this incredible creamy blanket that holds everything together
• 6 strips turkey bacon: Cook it until extra crispy because it will soften slightly when it hits the hot cheese
• 2 green onions: The fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor cuts through all the richness
• ¼ cup sour cream: Totally optional but that cool tang against hot cheesy fries is pure magic
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Makes everything look intentional and fancy like it came from a restaurant

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 425°F and line your largest baking sheet with parchment paper because the cheese will melt and stick to everything otherwise

Season those fries:

Toss the potato wedges with olive oil and all the spices in a big bowl until every piece is evenly coated

Bake until golden:

Spread fries in one single layer without overcrowding and bake for 25 to 30 minutes flipping halfway until they are golden and crispy

Crisp the bacon:

Cook turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until really crisp then drain and crumble it into bite sized pieces

Pile on the cheese:

Scatter both cheeses evenly over the hot fries then top with the crumbled bacon while everything is still piping hot

Melt it all together:

Return to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and starting to bubble in spots

Finish and serve:

Sprinkle green onions and parsley on top and serve immediately with sour cream on the side for dipping

Save

My friend Sarah who claims she does not even like football texts me about a week before the big game asking if these are happening. They have somehow become the most anticipated part of the entire menu.

Making Ahead

You can cut the fries up to a day ahead and store them submerged in cold water to prevent browning. Just pat them completely dry before tossing with oil and spices or they will steam instead of crisp up in the oven.

Cheese Selection

Pre shredded cheese has anti caking coating that prevents it from melting smoothly so grate your own blocks if you have the time. The texture difference is honestly noticeable and worth the extra five minutes of effort.

Serving Ideas

Set up a toppings bar and let people build their own ultimate loaded fries. Put out bowls of jalapeños diced tomatoes pickled onions and even some hot sauce for the heat seekers.

• Have extra sour cream ready because people always underestimate how much they need
• Napkins are non negotiable because this is definitely finger food
• Consider serving with forks for anyone who does not want cheesy fingers everywhere

Save

There is something ridiculously satisfying about pulling a sheet of bubbling cheesy fries out of the oven while everyone is gathered around the TV waiting for kickoff.

Recipe FAQs

→ What potatoes work best for crisp fries?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which crisps well in the oven while remaining fluffy inside.

→ Can I make a gluten-free version?

Yes, ensure the turkey bacon and cheeses used are certified gluten-free to maintain the option.

→ How to achieve crispy baked fries without frying?

Toss fries with olive oil and seasonings, then bake on a single layer at high temperature, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

→ What cheese combination enhances flavor best?

A blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack melts perfectly and balances richness with mildness.

→ Can I substitute turkey bacon with other toppings?

Yes, options like pepper jack, mozzarella, or adding jalapeños provide different flavor profiles to suit your taste.