Chili Cheese Fries Recipe

Frozen french fries: These are the base of the dish, providing a crispy and salty foundation.

Ground beef: Adds a rich, meaty flavor to the chili topping.

Chili beans: These beans come pre-seasoned and add a hearty texture to the chili.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top of the fries and chili, adding a creamy and tangy finish.

Chili powder: Provides a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the chili.

Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chili powder.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity to the chili.

To achieve perfectly crispy fries, make sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the fries can lead to uneven cooking and soggy results. Additionally, for an extra layer of flavor, consider seasoning the fries with a pinch of salt and pepper before baking. When cooking the ground beef, use a wooden spoon to break it into small, even pieces, ensuring it browns evenly. For a richer chili mixture, you can add a splash of beef broth or a tablespoon of tomato paste while it simmers. Finally, to melt the cheese evenly, place the platter under the broiler for a minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

• frozen french fries - Substitute with sweet potato fries: Sweet potato fries offer a slightly sweeter flavor and are often considered a healthier alternative due to their higher fiber content.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can reduce the overall fat content of the dish while still providing a similar texture.

• chili beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans have a similar texture and can add a slightly different but complementary flavor to the dish.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that pairs nicely with the spices in the chili.

• chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a similar heat level, though it is more potent, so use it sparingly.

• cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander offers a slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the other spices in the dish.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness while also contributing a bit of umami flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the dish.

• Allow the chili cheese fries to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the fries soggy.
• Transfer the cooled fries to an airtight container. If you have a lot, consider using multiple containers to avoid overcrowding.
• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The chili cheese fries will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, you can freeze the fries. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the fries to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• If you prefer, you can also reheat the chili mixture separately in a skillet over medium heat until warmed. Then, reassemble the dish by topping the reheated fries with the hot chili and a fresh sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
• For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh toppings like diced onions, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream after reheating.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread the leftover chili cheese fries on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Cover the fries with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp them up.
  5. Ensure the cheese is melted and the fries are heated through before serving.

• Skillet Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the leftover chili cheese fries in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  5. Once the cheese is melted and the fries are hot, remove from the skillet and serve.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the leftover chili cheese fries on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to stir and ensure even heating.
  4. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the cheese is melted and the fries are hot.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover chili cheese fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Air fry for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check that the cheese is melted and the fries are crispy before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the frozen french fries until they are crispy.

• Baking sheet: A flat surface to spread the fries on for baking.

• Skillet: Used to cook and brown the ground beef.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring and breaking up the ground beef as it cooks.

• Can opener: Necessary for opening the can of chili beans.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

• Serving platter: A large dish to arrange the cooked fries on before adding the chili mixture and cheese.

• Cheese grater: If you are shredding your own cheddar cheese, this tool will be essential.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling hot items from the oven.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for stirring the chili mixture as it simmers.

• Knife: If you need to chop any additional toppings or garnishes.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping any additional ingredients.

Use pre-cooked fries: Opt for pre-cooked frozen fries to cut down on baking time.

Batch cook ground beef: Cook a large batch of ground beef ahead of time and freeze portions for quick use.

Microwave chili mixture: Heat the chili beans and spices in the microwave to save stovetop time.

Shredded cheese: Buy pre-shredded cheddar cheese to avoid grating it yourself.

One-pan method: Use a single baking sheet for fries and chili mixture to minimize cleanup.