Randy Chandler
Cheese fries are a popular snack, especially in the US, and there are many ways to make them. The type of cheese you use can vary depending on your taste preferences and the availability of ingredients. Some popular cheeses used in cheese fries include cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Colby, and pepper Jack. You can also use a combination of cheeses, such as half sharp cheddar and half melting cheese, or make a cheese sauce using a base of cheddar or pepper Jack. For a Mexican twist, you can use a Mexican cheese blend or queso.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, colby, pepper Jack, Swiss, American, classic cheddar, pepper Jack, Parmesan, pecorino romano, Velveeta, gouda, raclette, Cheez Whiz |
| Cheese form | Shredded, melted, sauce |
| Toppings | Bacon, green onions, scallions, jalapeños, parsley, herbs, ranch dressing, black beans, salsa, olives, pico de gallo, shredded chicken, cooked sausage, tomatoes, green chilies, avocado, cilantro, roasted corn |
| Other ingredients | Potato wedges, olive oil, seasoned salt, pepper, butter, flour, milk, evaporated milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne |
Explore related products
Cheese sauce vs. shredded cheese
Cheese fries are a popular dish, especially in the US, and there are several ways to make them. The two most common methods are to use shredded cheese or a cheese sauce.
Shredded cheese is a popular option for cheese fries as it is convenient and easy to melt. You can use a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper Jack. A combination of these cheeses can also be used. For example, half sharp cheddar cheese and half Monterey Jack. Using shredded cheese allows for a quicker preparation time as the cheese can be melted in the oven in a few minutes. This method is ideal for a quick, indulgent snack or side dish.
Cheese sauce, on the other hand, offers a different flavour and texture. Making a cheese sauce typically involves creating a roux with butter and flour, then adding milk and shredded cheese. This results in a creamy, smooth sauce that can be drizzled over the fries. The type of cheese used can vary, but cheddar and American cheese are popular choices. The sauce can be customised with additional ingredients such as hot sauce, paprika, or garlic. Preparing cheese sauce takes a bit more time and effort than simply shredding cheese, but it offers a unique taste and texture that some may prefer.
Both methods have their advantages and will ultimately come down to personal preference. Shredded cheese is faster and easier, while cheese sauce provides a creamier, more indulgent experience. Some may prefer the taste and texture of melted shredded cheese, while others may enjoy the extra effort and flavour that comes with making a cheese sauce.
Additionally, the type of cheese used can also be varied to suit individual tastes. For example, some may prefer a milder flavour, while others may enjoy a sharper, more pungent cheese. The combination of cheeses and the addition of other ingredients, such as bacon, jalapeños, or herbs, can also be customised to create unique and tasty cheese fries.
Ultimately, whether you choose shredded cheese or cheese sauce, cheese fries are a delicious and indulgent treat that can be easily customised to suit your preferences.
Portillo's Cheese Secrets: What's Their Special Ingredient?
You may want to see also
Cheddar cheese
To make a cheese sauce with cheddar, it is recommended to use freshly shredded cheese. The anti-caking additives in bagged, pre-shredded cheese can make your sauce lumpy. You can shred the cheese yourself, or buy it freshly shredded from a deli counter. Sharp cheddar is a popular choice for cheese sauces, but mild to extra sharp will all work. To make the sauce, melt butter and whisk in flour until a thick paste forms. Cook this paste, stirring continuously, until it turns golden. This will cook out the raw flour taste. Then, slowly add milk, whisking out any lumps as they form, until the mixture is thickened and bubbly. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheese a handful at a time, until it is all melted. You can then add salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste.
If you are short on time, you can also melt shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle it directly over the fries. This method still allows you to have delicious, crispy cheese fries without the extra step of making a cheese sauce. Simply cook your fries according to the package directions, and sprinkle the cheese over the top. Return the fries to the oven and bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Creative Ways to Use a Folio Cheese Tortilla
You may want to see also
Monterey Jack
When making cheese fries with Monterey Jack, it is best to shred the cheese first. You can then melt the cheese and drizzle it over the cooked fries, or sprinkle it over the cooked fries and return them to the oven to melt.
For the best texture and flavour, it is recommended to use fresh, shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded bagged cheese, which can make the sauce lumpy. You can also make a cheese sauce with Monterey Jack by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, and then slowly adding milk. Finally, add the cheese by the handful and whisk until smooth.
Mascarpone Magic: Indulging Cakes
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Mozzarella
When making cheese fries with mozzarella, you can choose to make your own fries from scratch or use frozen steak fries, which are thicker and hold up well under the weight of the cheese and toppings. If you're making your own, cut potatoes into wedges or fries, toss them in oil, and season with salt and pepper or seasoned salt. Bake them in a single layer on a baking sheet until crispy and golden brown.
For the cheese sauce, you can simply melt shredded mozzarella or combine it with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper Jack. You can also make a cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and then slowly adding milk to create a thick and creamy sauce. Add cayenne, salt, and pepper to taste. Drizzle the sauce over the fries or serve it on the side as a dip.
Finally, load up your mozzarella cheese fries with toppings like bacon, green onions, jalapeños, herbs, or even sour cream for a truly indulgent treat. Enjoy your homemade cheese fries, fresh out of the oven, for the best texture and flavour.
Evaporated Milk: A Mac and Cheese Secret Weapon?
You may want to see also
Toppings
Cheese fries are a great snack and an indulgent comfort food. They are easy to make and can be topped with a variety of ingredients to elevate the dish.
The classic cheese fries are topped with two types of melted cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh herbs. The cheese is usually shredded and melted, or a cheese sauce can be drizzled over the fries. The sauce can be made with a combination of cheese, butter, flour, and milk. The cheese sauce can also be made with a Mexican cheese blend, or with shredded cheese and milk.
The toppings for cheese fries are versatile and can be customized to suit one's taste. Popular toppings include jalapeños, green onions, scallions, and parsley. For a Southwest-style twist, add black beans, salsa, and chopped jalapeños for a Tex-Mex flavor. Other toppings could include sour cream, olives, pico de gallo, shredded chicken, cooked sausage, tomatoes, green chilies, avocado, cilantro, or roasted corn.
For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some paprika on top of the cheese sauce. For a more intense flavor, smoked paprika can be used. A final touch could be a drizzle of ranch dressing or serving the cheese fries with a side of ranch dressing for dipping.
Sliced Cheese in Lasagna: A Culinary No-No?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Cheese fries are often made with shredded melted cheese. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, Swiss, colby jack, American, or classic Monterey jack. You can also finish your cheese fries with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan or pecorino romano cheese.
Yes, you can use a homemade or store-bought cheese sauce. You can make a cheese sauce by melting shredded cheese of your choice with milk. You can also add other ingredients such as butter, flour, cornstarch, and seasonings to taste.
Cheese fries are often topped with bacon and green onions. Other popular toppings include jalapeños, sour cream, herbs, and parsley. You can also add toppings such as olives, pico de gallo, shredded chicken, cooked sausage, tomatoes, green chilies, diced avocado, cilantro, or roasted corn.
