Super Bowl Cheesy Baked Fries

Name: Super Bowl Cheesy Baked Fries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Sour cream or ranch dressing for serving

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I absolutely love how satisfying it is to enjoy these Super Bowl Cheesy Baked Fries while cheering for my favorite team. The blend of melted cheese, crispy fries, and a hint of spice creates a deliciously satisfying experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. It's easy to prepare, and the best part is that they can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you're hosting a party or just treating yourself, these fries are the perfect game-day snack!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:34:35.622Z

As I prepared for the Super Bowl, I wanted to create a snack that was both indulgent and easy to make. That's when I decided on these cheesy baked fries. I experimented with different kinds of cheese and found that a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella provided the ultimate flavor and texture. The secret, I've discovered, is in the seasoning — a sprinkle of paprika and garlic powder elevates these fries from good to unforgettable.

While baking the fries until they are golden and crispy, I recommend watching them closely in the last few minutes. This ensures they reach the perfect crispness without burning. I always pair them with a zesty ranch dip for a refreshing contrast that enhances their cheesy goodness. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to snack for any gathering!

        Why You'll Love These Cheesy Baked Fries
        Melted cheese that stretches with every bite
Perfectly seasoned crispy fries that are addictive
A crowd-pleaser for any game day or gathering

      

The Perfect Fry Technique

Achieving the ideal texture for your fries is crucial, and the secret lies in the soaking process. After cutting the russet potatoes, consider soaking them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to remove excess starch and results in fries that are wonderfully crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy inside. If you're short on time, even a 10-minute soak can make a difference.

For an extra crunch, try double-frying your potatoes. First, bake the fries until slightly tender, then let them rest before returning them to the oven for a second turn. This technique enhances the crispiness and gives that golden color you're looking for. Keep an eye on them towards the end of cooking to avoid over-browning.

Cheese Choices and Layering

The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese not only adds great flavor but also creates that irresistible gooeyness. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a third cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, for a unique twist. Just make sure the cheeses you choose melt well; not all cheeses have the same melting properties.

When layering the cheese, sprinkle evenly to ensure every fry gets its fair share of cheesy goodness. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking; you want it melted and bubbly, not burnt. For a fun presentation, drizzle some warm cheese sauce over the top right before serving for that extra flair.

Topping Ideas and Serving Suggestions

While sour cream and ranch dressing are classic choices for dipping, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Consider adding chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, or even jalapeño slices for a spicy kick. You could also create a nacho-style variation by layering additional toppings like salsa and guacamole right on top of the cheese.

If you're planning to make these fries for a crowd, consider serving them on a large platter with varied dips arranged around it. This not only makes for a stunning centerpiece but lets your guests customize their fries according to their preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Sour cream or ranch dressing for serving

Now, you're ready to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for the perfect cheesy baked fries:

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the russet potatoes, then cut them into even-sized fries. Make sure they are not too thick to ensure even cooking.

Season the Fries

In a large bowl, toss the cut fries with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until they are well coated.

Bake the Fries

Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Add the Cheese

Once the fries are cooked, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve immediately with sour cream or ranch dressing on the side.

Enjoy your delicious cheesy baked fries!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sliced jalapeños on top before baking the cheese.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Super Bowl Cheesy Baked Fries can be partially prepared in advance. If you want to save time on game day, you can cut and soak the potatoes the day before. Store them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning and baking, as excess moisture can prevent crispiness.

If you have leftovers, store the cheesy fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, try placing them in the oven again at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain some of the original crunch instead of using a microwave, which can make them soggy.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your fries turn out soggy, it's likely due to insufficient drying after soaking or overcrowding on the baking sheet. Make sure to spread the fries in a single layer with space between them to guarantee even cooking and crisping. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid crowding.

For uneven cooking, check the size of your fries; cutting them into uniform sizes helps ensure they cook through at the same rate. If you realize they’re not browning as you’d like, raising the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the last few minutes can help achieve that desirable crisp without cooking them too long.

Scaling Up the Recipe

If you're hosting a larger gathering, scaling up this recipe is simple—just multiply the ingredient amounts to fit your needs. However, be mindful of your baking space. Depending on the size of your oven, you may need to bake in multiple batches. Keep the first batch warm in a low oven while the subsequent batches cook through.

Consider serving a variety of fries to cater to different tastes—think sweet potato fries or seasoned curly fries alongside the cheesy russet fries. This not only adds visual appeal but also introduces different flavors and textures to your game-day spread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fries instead?

Yes! If using frozen fries, adjust the baking time according to the package instructions.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add diced green onions, jalapeños, or even chili for a spicier kick.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

For best results, prepare them fresh. However, you can prep the fries and season them ahead of time and bake just before serving.

→ What kind of potatoes are best for fries?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they have a high starch content, leading to crispy fries.