Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling potatoes wafted through the air, igniting memories of cozy gatherings and game days. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on chili cheese fries, a dish that perfectly blends crispy texture with gooey, cheesy goodness. This customizable comfort food not only satisfies the cravings for something hearty, but it can also fit any dietary preference—making it a hit for everyone at the table. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a vegetarian twist, the possibilities are endless. Are you ready to dive into a plate of deliciousness that’s quick to prepare and perfect for sharing? Let’s do this! Why Are Chili Cheese Fries Irresistible? Ultimate comfort food: These chili cheese fries bring an unbeatable combination of crispy, golden fries topped with rich chili and melted cheese. Customizable options: Tailor the dish to your taste with different chili types and cheese blends—be it spicy, mild, or veggie-friendly, there’s something for everyone. Quick prep: Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, this recipe can be assembled in no time. Try pairing these with our Cheese Grape Skewers for an easy appetizer! Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for sharing, they make for a delicious centerpiece at your next game day party or casual dinner with friends. Unique layer of flavors: Enjoy the delightful interplay of crunchy fries, savory chili, and gooey cheese, all in one bite! Chili Cheese Fries Ingredients • Get ready for deliciousness! For the Fries • Russet Potatoes – A great starchy base for crispy fries; use one per person, or swap for sweet potatoes for a healthier option. • Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; can use canola or peanut oil for a perfect crisp. For the Chili • Ground Beef – Adds protein and a hearty flavor; substitute with ground turkey or keep it vegetarian by omitting altogether. • Onion – Enhances sweetness and depth; yellow onions work best, but feel free to experiment! • Garlic – Brightens the chili’s flavor; freshly minced is preferred, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. • Tomato Sauce – Serves as the chili’s base; canned is quick, but homemade adds a personal touch. • Diced Tomatoes – Introduces texture and moisture; fresh tomatoes are a lovely substitute if in season. • Kidney Beans – Packed with protein and fiber; rinse well before adding. • Chili Beans – Pre-seasoned beans enhance flavor; any canned bean can be used in their place. • Chili Powder – The core flavor for your chili; adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance. • Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note; coriander can be used as a twist for unique flavor. • Smoked Paprika – Deepens the chili’s flavor profile; regular paprika will do if smoked isn’t available. • Cayenne Pepper – Introduces heat to your dish; adjust to taste for desired spice level. • Dried Oregano – Complements the chili; Italian seasoning can stand in if needed. • Salt & Black Pepper – Fundamental seasonings; customize amounts to suit your palate. For the Toppings • Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully on top; consider a blend of cheeses for more flavor variety. • Optional Toppings – Sour cream, green onions, and pickled jalapeños can enhance flavor and presentation. Get your ingredients ready and prepare to indulge in these amazing chili cheese fries! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chili Cheese Fries Step 1: Prepare the Fries Start by selecting your russet potatoes; one per person is ideal. Peel and cut them into thin fries, then soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry before heating vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, around 5-7 minutes per batch. Step 2: Make the Chili While your fries are frying, prepare the chili in a large skillet over medium heat. Begin by browning 1 pound of ground beef with 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until the meat is no longer pink. Add in a can of tomato sauce, a can of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of kidney beans, and 1 cup of chili beans. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to blend the flavors. Step 3: Assemble the Dish Once the fries are ready and the chili has simmered to perfection, it’s time to assemble your chili cheese fries. On a large serving plate, layer the crispy fries generously with the chili mixture. Take a handful of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it liberally over the top, allowing for maximum ooey-gooey goodness. Step 4: Melt the Cheese To create a mouthwatering finish, place the assembled chili cheese fries under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at high heat. Keep a close eye on them as the cheese melts and bubbles; you want it to turn a lovely golden brown without burning. This step really elevates your chili cheese fries! Step 5: Garnish & Serve Finally, take your magnificent chili cheese fries out from under the broiler and let them cool for a minute. Now is the time to add optional toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, and pickled jalapeños for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting dish with friends or family! Chili Cheese Fries Variations Feel free to jazz up your chili cheese fries with these delightful twists that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or black beans for a protein-packed vegetarian dish. It’s hearty and incredibly satisfying. Sweet Potato Fries: Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter, nutrient-dense alternative. The flavor pairings are simply divine! Spicy Salsa: Add a zesty twist by mixing in your favorite salsa to the chili for an extra layer of flavor and heat. Cheese Medley: Use a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, and cheddar for a flavorful explosion of creaminess and richness. Baked Variation: For a healthier option, bake the fries instead of frying them. Just toss them in oil and seasonings, then roast until crispy! Creamy Avocado Dressing: Drizzle a creamy avocado dressing on top for a fresh and delicious layer of flavor that balances the richness of the chili. Smoky BBQ Twist: Mix a touch of barbecue sauce into the chili for a unique sweet and smoky flavor. Pair it with our crunchy Keto Gluten Fries for a scrumptious combo! Crispy Toppings: Sprinkle crispy fried onions or crumbled tortilla chips on top for an additional crunch that will take each bite over the top. With these variations, your chili cheese fries can be tailored to suit every palate at your table! Enjoy exploring the endless possibilities. What to Serve with Chili Cheese Fries Create the perfect meal experience by pairing these comforting chili cheese fries with delightful sides and drinks that enhance their rich flavors. Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy side that complements the richness of the chili cheese fries. The coolness of the slaw balances the hearty warmth of the dish beautifully. Guacamole and Chips: The creamy texture and fresh flavors of guacamole make an inviting addition. Pair it with crispy tortilla chips for a delightful crunch and refreshing contrast. Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: For those who love heat, spicy jalapeño poppers amplify the flavor experience. Their creamy center paired with crunchy breadcrumbs makes them an irresistible snack alongside. Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad provides a cooling counterpart, cutting through the richness of the cheesy fries. The bright flavors enhance the overall meal. Fizzy Lemonade: A chilled glass of fizzy lemonade can enliven the palate. Its zesty sweetness offers a delightful balance to the savory chili cheese fries. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note. The gooey, warm cookies are a comforting dessert that pairs wonderfully with the flavor-packed fries and can satisfy any sweet cravings! Elevate your dining experience by mixing and matching these pairings for a meal full of flavor and comfort that everyone will love! Tips for the Best Chili Cheese Fries Perfectly Crispy Fries: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying to achieve that desired crunch. Avoid overcrowding the pot to prevent sogginess. Simmer for Flavor: Let your chili simmer for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully; longer simmering deepens the taste. Customize Wisely: Experiment with different chili types and spice levels to make your chili cheese fries unique; don’t hesitate to adjust the heat! Cheese Choices Matter: Use a blend of cheeses for a richer flavor; combinations like cheddar and Monterey Jack melt together perfectly. Serving Size Tips: For gatherings, serve in individual bowls for easy sharing; this makes your dish feel more inviting and special! Storage Savvy: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, but for the best taste, reheat them in the oven to regain that crispy texture. How to Store and Freeze Chili Cheese Fries Fridge: Store leftover chili cheese fries in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispy texture, it’s best to separate the fries from the chili before refrigerating. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fries and chili separately. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again. Heat the chili in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through, then reassemble your delicious chili cheese fries. Tips: For the best results, avoid freezing assembled chili cheese fries to ensure the fries stay crispy and the chili retains its flavor! Make Ahead Options These Ultimate Chili Cheese Fries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chili ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Simply brown the ground beef, onions, and garlic, then mix in the tomatoes, beans, and spices as instructed. Once cooked, let the chili cool before transferring it to an airtight container. For the fries, you can cut the russet potatoes and soak them in water for up to 24 hours to prevent browning. When ready to serve, fry the potatoes and assemble the dish by layering the crispy fries with the reheated chili and melted cheese, ensuring a delightful taste just as if made fresh! Chili Cheese Fries Recipe FAQs What type of potatoes should I use for the fries? Absolutely! I recommend using russet potatoes for their high starch content, which makes for the crispiest fries. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, sweet potatoes are a lovely alternative. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes will have a different flavor profile and texture! How long can I store leftover chili cheese fries? Leftover chili cheese fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve those crunchy fries, I suggest separating them from the chili before refrigerating. When you’re ready to eat, you can simply reheat them in the oven to get that lovely crispiness back. Can I freeze chili cheese fries? If so, how? Absolutely! For freezing, it’s best to keep the fries and chili separate to maintain texture and taste. Place the cooled chili in airtight containers or freezer bags, and do the same with the fries. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy, and heat the chili in a saucepan until warm. What if my chili is too spicy? Very! If your chili turns out spicier than desired, don’t panic! You can mellow it out by adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving. Another option is to stir in a bit of sugar or honey, which can neutralize the heat without altering the flavor too much. Do these chili cheese fries contain any allergens? Great question! The basic recipe includes dairy and may contain gluten if you use certain brands of fries. It’s always wise to check the labels for specific allergens like cheese or any pre-packaged beans. For a vegetarian version, just leave out the meat, and feel free to replace cheese with a plant-based option if needed! How can I adjust the chili’s flavor to my preference? The flavor of your chili is completely customizable! Start with the base ingredients, and then you can experiment by adding more chili powder or cayenne for heat, or like in a mild chili, consider incorporating more diced tomatoes or kidney beans. If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding more smoked paprika! A good rule is to let your chili simmer for longer to deepen flavors, around 45 minutes to 1 hour will do wonders! Irresistible Chili Cheese Fries: Customize Your Comfort Dish These Chili Cheese Fries are the perfect snack, blending crispy fries with rich chili and gooey cheese. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsBroiling Time 3 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 3 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Fries4 pieces Russet Potatoes One per person, can substitute with sweet potatoes4 cups Vegetable Oil Can use canola or peanut oilFor the Chili1 lb Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or omit for vegetarian1 piece Onion Yellow onions work best2 cloves Garlic Freshly minced preferred1 can Tomato Sauce Canned is quick, homemade is great1 can Diced Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used if in season1 cup Kidney Beans Rinse well before adding1 cup Chili Beans Pre-seasoned beans enhance flavor3 tbsp Chili Powder Adjust based on spice tolerance1 tsp Cumin Coriander can be used for unique flavor1 tsp Smoked Paprika Regular paprika will do if smoked isn’t available1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust to taste for desired spice level1 tsp Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can substituteto taste Saltto taste Black PepperFor the Toppings2 cups Cheddar Cheese Consider a blend of cheeses for more flavor varietyOptional Toppings Sour cream, green onions, and pickled jalapeños Equipment Deep fryer or heavy potLarge SkilletServing plate Method Prepare the FriesPeel and cut you russet potatoes into thin fries, soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry before frying.Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches until golden brown and crispy, around 5-7 minutes per batch.Make the ChiliIn a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef with 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until meat is no longer pink.Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and chili beans. Season with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes.Assemble the DishLayer the crispy fries generously with the chili mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese liberally over the top.Melt the CheesePlace the assembled chili cheese fries under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at high heat, watching closely until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.Garnish & ServeAdd optional toppings like sour cream, chopped green onions, and pickled jalapeños, then serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 1000mgFiber: 8gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesFor crispy texture, separate fries and chili before refrigerating leftovers. Freeze fries and chili separately for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!