Dirty Fries Loaded Cheesy (Print)

Crispy fries smothered in gooey cheese, peppers, and a zesty sauce. Great for sharing and perfect for gatherings.

# Ingredients:

→ Fries

01 - 4 large russet potatoes, cut into thin fries (alternatively, use frozen fries for convenience)
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 0.5 teaspoon salt
07 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

→ Toppings

08 - 150 grams shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
09 - 60 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded
10 - 1 small red onion, finely diced
11 - 1 small green bell pepper, diced
12 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
13 - 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
14 - 0.5 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
15 - 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
16 - 15 grams fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

→ Sauce

17 - 120 grams sour cream or Greek yogurt
18 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
19 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
20 - 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
21 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika

# Steps:

01 - Cut russet potatoes into thin fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to enhance crispness, then drain and pat thoroughly dry.
02 - Toss the potato fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
03 - Preheat oven to 220°C. Arrange fries in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
04 - Alternatively, cook fries in an air fryer at 190°C for 15–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even cooking.
05 - In a pan over medium heat, sauté diced red onion and bell peppers with a small amount of olive oil until softened and lightly caramelized.
06 - Transfer hot fries to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
07 - Remove dish from oven. Immediately top with sautéed onions, bell peppers, sliced jalapeños, dried oregano, and chili flakes as desired.
08 - In a small bowl, combine sour cream or Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
09 - Generously drizzle prepared sauce over the loaded fries. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro.
10 - Serve immediately for maximum crispiness and enjoyment. Present the fries straight from the baking dish.

# Notes:

01 - Soaking freshly cut potatoes in cold water draws out excess starch and results in crispier fries after baking or air frying.
02 - Loaded fries are best consumed immediately to maintain their texture; prolonged sitting may lead to sogginess.