Save The first time I made loaded sweet potato fries was during a Super Bowl party a few years back. I had forgotten to plan a proper appetizer, so I grabbed a bag of frozen sweet potato waffle fries from the freezer and started piling on whatever I could find in the fridge. The combination of salty bacon, sharp cheddar, and cool ranch turned out to be so addictive that people abandoned the actual game to hover over the platter.
I made these for my sister last summer when she came over for a casual dinner on the back porch. We ended up sitting outside for an hour longer than planned, picking at the fries long after the burgers were gone, talking about nothing important while the sun went down.
Ingredients
- Sweet potato waffle fries: The waffle cut gives you more surface area for crisping and more nooks for cheese to melt into
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar because its bold flavor stands up to the sweetness of the potatoes
- Bacon: Cook it until very crispy so it stays crunchy on top of the fries and doesn't get soggy
- Ranch dressing: Homemade or store bought both work but avoid overly thick dressings that won't drizzle well
- Green onions: Slice them thin so they add mild onion flavor without overpowering the other toppings
Instructions
- Crisp the fries:
- Preheat your oven to 220°C and spread the frozen waffle fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown with crispy edges.
- Melt the cheese:
- Pull the fries from the oven and scatter the shredded cheddar evenly across the top. Return to the oven for just 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- Pile on the toppings:
- Transfer the cheesy fries to a large platter while they are still hot. Drizzle with ranch dressing then sprinkle with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, parsley if you are using it, and black pepper.
Save These loaded fries became my go to whenever friends come over for casual hangouts. There is something about standing around a platter of messy, cheesy food that makes people relax and start talking like they have known each other for years.
Best Cheese Options
Sharp cheddar is classic but I have used pepper jack for heat or a mix of cheddar and gruyère when I want something fancier. Just avoid very soft cheeses like fresh mozzarella that will make the fries soggy.
Make It Vegetarian
My vegetarian friends love this version. I replace the bacon with diced avocado for creaminess or use vegetarian bacon bits for that smoky flavor. You can also add pickled jalapeños for extra bite.
Serving Ideas
These work as an appetizer, a side dish for burgers, or even a casual dinner on movie night. Set out extra ranch for dipping and maybe some hot sauce on the side.
- Line the serving platter with parchment paper for easier cleanup
- Have everything prepped before the fries come out of the oven
- Use tongs to transfer fries so they stay crispy
Save These loaded sweet potato fries are the kind of food that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable. Hope they become a favorite in your house too.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use regular fries instead of sweet potato fries?
Yes, regular waffle fries can be substituted, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly from sweet potatoes.
- → How do I make the fries crispy?
Bake the fries in a single layer at a high temperature (425°F/220°C), flipping halfway to ensure even crispiness.
- → Can I omit bacon for a vegetarian version?
Absolutely, simply leave out the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits for a similar savory flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
It’s best served immediately to maintain crispiness, but fries can be baked ahead and briefly reheated before adding toppings.
- → What are some suggested additional toppings?
Diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or pickled onions make excellent additions to enhance flavor and texture.