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Crispy Loaded Nacho Fries Recipe with Caramelized Onions and Queso Made Easy

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy loaded nacho fries topped with sweet caramelized onions and creamy homemade queso, perfect for game nights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound frozen fries (shoestring or crinkle-cut)
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup whole milk (or oat/almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • Sour cream for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread frozen fries evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Watch closely in the last 5 minutes to avoid burning.
  2. While fries bake, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden and sweet. Add a splash of water if onions start sticking.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly but not browned.
  4. Slowly whisk in 1 cup whole milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened, then reduce heat to low.
  5. Gradually stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth. Mix in ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon chili powder (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once fries are crispy, transfer to a serving plate or keep on the baking sheet. Spoon warm queso generously over fries. Top with caramelized onions, sliced jalapeños (if using), and chopped fresh cilantro.
  7. Add dollops of sour cream on the side or drizzle on top. Serve immediately while warm and melty.
  8. Optional: For extra crispy fries after adding toppings, broil assembled dish for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

For extra crispy fries after adding toppings, broil for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. When caramelizing onions, cook low and slow and add water if sticking. To keep fries crispy, serve immediately or reheat toppings separately before assembling.

Nutrition

Keywords: nacho fries, loaded fries, caramelized onions, queso, game night snack, easy recipe, crispy fries, cheesy fries

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/crispy-loaded-nacho-fries-recipe-with-caramelized-onions-and-queso-made-easy/