Chilis Texas Cheese Fries Recipe

Craving a cheesy, crispy delight?

Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries recipe is a perfect choice (well, if it’s up to me!).

You’ll love how easy it is to transform frozen or fresh fries into a loaded, mouthwatering masterpiece with melted cheese, bacon bits, and jalapeños.

Sprinkle sea salt over your fries for that perfect hint of flavor and bake them until they’re golden brown.

A quick tip is to broil the fries for a minute after baking to get that irresistible crispy texture.

How to Make Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries

Ingredients

• 1 bag of Frozen French Fries
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Bacon Bits
• 1/4 cup Jalapeños (sliced)
• 1/4 cup Ranch Dressing
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Sea Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 450°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Arrange the frozen fries in a single layer.

Step 2:

Drizzle olive oil over the fries.

Sprinkle with sea salt.

Toss them lightly to coat evenly.

Step 3:

Place the fries in the oven, baking them for about 14 minutes.

Take them out briefly to flip.

Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 4:

Once crispy, transfer the fries to an oven-safe serving plate.

Generously layer cheddar cheese on top.

Scatter bacon bits and jalapeños evenly over the cheese.

Step 5:

Return the loaded fries to the oven until the cheese melts fully.

This should take just 5-6 minutes at 350°F.

Serve hot with ranch dressing on the side.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Right Fries:

I recommend using thick-cut frozen fries for a satisfying crunch.

The thicker the fries, the better they hold the toppings.

Cheese Choice:

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends for a custom flavor.

Monterey Jack adds a creamy touch, while Pepper Jack provides extra spice!

Bacon Placement:

Try to cook your bacon until it’s crispy and crumble it fresh.

This enhances the texture and contributes a nice smoky flavor to the fries.

Jalapeños Adjustment:

Adjust the jalapeños to control the heat.

If you’re not a fan of spice, remove the seeds or opt for a milder pickled version.

Baking Tip:

Keep an eye on the fries as they bake to avoid burning the cheese.

You’re aiming for a gooey, bubbling masterpiece!

What to Serve with Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries

Buttermilk Coleslaw

A crisp and tangy buttermilk coleslaw can balance the richness of the cheese fries.

Its creamy texture pairs perfectly and provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

You might be surprised how much this classic works!

Guacamole

Guacamole isn’t just for tortilla chips!

Its creamy and slightly tangy qualities work wonders alongside your cheese fries.

Plus, it adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Pickled Jalapenos

Pickled jalapenos add a zesty kick alongside your fries.

Their tanginess complements the cheesy goodness wonderfully.

They’re also a great option if you’re looking for just a bit of heat without overpowering everything else.

Pineapple Salsa

Feeling adventurous? Try serving your cheese fries with a pineapple salsa.

This unexpected combination brings a sweet and tangy twist.

It’s a delightful way to mix things up and can become a new favorite pairing!

Carne Asada

Need a little more protein on your plate?

Carne asada is a hearty and flavorful choice.

The spices and flavors meld beautifully with the cheesy fries, making each bite extra satisfying.

Variations and Substitutions

You can swap the type of cheese to mix things up a bit.

Try using Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a creamier texture.

Adding a bit of pepper jack gives a spicy kick.

It’s easy to make these fries vegetarian by skipping the bacon.

Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or black olives for a flavorful twist.

Experimenting with spices can make a big difference.

Sprinkle some garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.

Use sweet potato fries instead of regular fries for a sweeter taste.

If you’re looking for healthier options, bake the fries instead of frying.

You might prefer using turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.

Adding some hot sauce or sriracha can give an exciting spicy flavor.

Switch up the toppings with diced tomatoes or green onions for freshness.

How to Store Leftover Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries

When it comes to savoring Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries later, storing them properly is key!

Cooling the Fries

Make sure to cool the cheese fries thoroughly before storing to prevent sogginess.

You don’t want any hot fries going into your fridge.

Using Airtight Containers

I recommend placing the cooled fries in an airtight container to lock in freshness.

Tightly seal the lid to prevent any moisture or unwanted odors from sneaking in!

Choosing Refrigeration Over Freezing

You should refrigerate the leftovers within two hours of cooking.

If you’re planning to eat them within the next few days, refrigeration is the best option.

Putting the fries in the fridge keeps them ready to enjoy without altering their taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Fries

Don’t overcook the fries!

Getting that perfect crispy texture means watching them closely as they bake.

Fries can go from golden to burnt in no time.

Using Low-Quality Cheese

Believe me, using low-quality cheese will make a big difference!

You want cheese that melts beautifully, with great flavor.

Go for sharp cheddar or a mix with Monterey Jack for extra deliciousness.

Skipping the Jalapeños

Please don’t skip the jalapeños unless you absolutely dislike spice.

They add an incredible layer of flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Just adjust the amount if you’re worried about heat.