Name: Cheese Fries Cravings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb frozen French fries or fresh potatoes (cut into fries); 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for baking or frying); Salt to taste; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp paprika (optional); Optional toppings: bacon bits, green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, ranch drizzle

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When my cheese fries cravings hit, there’s only one thing that satisfies: a hot plate of crispy fries smothered in rich, melty cheese. Whether I keep it simple or pile them high with toppings, cheese fries are the ultimate comfort snack—salty, gooey, and absolutely irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love cheese fries because they’re quick, indulgent, and endlessly customizable. I can make them with frozen fries for convenience or hand-cut potatoes for something extra special. The cheese sauce is creamy, velvety, and easy to whip up in minutes. Whether I’m watching a movie, hosting friends, or just feeding a craving, these hit the spot every single time.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Frozen French fries or fresh potatoes (cut into fries)
Olive oil or vegetable oil (for baking or frying)
Salt
Shredded cheddar cheese or cheese blend
Butter
All-purpose flour
Milk
Garlic powder
Paprika (optional for spice)
Optional toppings: bacon bits, green onions, jalapeños, sour cream, ranch drizzle

Directions

I preheat the oven and cook the fries according to the package directions—or fry them if I’m making fresh ones. I season with salt once they’re crisp and golden.
While the fries cook, I make the cheese sauce. In a small saucepan, I melt butter over medium heat.
I whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux.
I slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
I stir in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. I keep stirring until smooth and fully melted.
Once the fries are done, I pile them onto a plate or tray and pour the warm cheese sauce generously over the top.
I finish with my favorite toppings, if I’m using any, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–4 people (or just me on a serious craving day).
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use waffle fries or curly fries for extra texture. I love adding crispy bacon and green onions for loaded cheese fries, or going spicy with chopped jalapeños and hot sauce. I’ve also made a Tex-Mex version with taco meat and queso, or a breakfast one with fried eggs on top.

storage/reheating

Cheese fries are best eaten fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a day. To reheat, I use the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness, then reheat the cheese sauce separately and pour it over.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cheese sauce?

Yes, but I prefer making mine from scratch—it’s creamier, richer, and I can adjust the seasoning to taste.

How do I keep fries from getting soggy?

I bake or fry them until deeply golden and crispy, and I don’t add the cheese until just before serving.

What kind of cheese melts best?

Cheddar is my go-to, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend all work well. I use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Absolutely. I air-fry the fries for maximum crispiness, then top with hot cheese sauce and any extras I want.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Conclusion

Cheese fries are one of those crave-worthy dishes I never get tired of. Crispy, melty, and fully loaded or classic and simple—they’re always a hit. I love how easy they are to whip up whenever that salty, cheesy craving strikes.