The Best Cheeses To Pair With French Fries

French fries are a delicious snack, but they can be taken to the next level with the addition of cheese. There are many types of cheese that can be used to make cheese fries, each with its own unique flavour and texture. For example, cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack are all popular choices. The type of cheese you choose will depend on your personal preference and the specific recipe you are following. Some recipes call for multiple types of cheese to be combined, such as cheddar and mozzarella or sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack.

Cheddar cheese, shredded yourself, is a popular choice

When making cheese fries, it is recommended to shred the cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese is often coated in anti-caking agents, which can affect the texture of the cheese sauce. These additives can make the sauce lumpy and prevent the cheese from melting properly. By shredding your own cheese, you can ensure a smooth and creamy sauce that coats the fries evenly.

Cheddar cheese is a great option for cheese fries because of its sharp, distinct flavour and its melting capabilities. When melted, cheddar becomes creamy and smooth, creating an indulgent and comforting dish. It pairs well with other popular toppings such as bacon, green onions, and jalapeños, adding a savoury, tangy flavour to the dish.

Additionally, cheddar cheese comes in different varieties, such as mild, medium, sharp, or extra sharp, offering a range of flavour profiles to choose from. For cheese fries, a sharp cheddar is often recommended as it provides a bold, distinct flavour that stands up to other toppings and seasonings.

When making cheese fries with cheddar, you can simply sprinkle shredded cheddar over the fries and bake until melted, creating a layer of cheesy goodness. Alternatively, you can make a cheddar cheese sauce by melting the shredded cheese with milk, butter, and seasonings, resulting in a creamy, decadent topping for your fries.

Cheddar cheese is a versatile and popular choice for cheese fries, offering a range of flavour options and a creamy, indulgent texture that makes it a favourite among cheese fry enthusiasts.

Steak fries are a good base for cheese fries

Steak fries are often sold frozen, which makes them a convenient option for making cheese fries at home. They can be baked in the oven without the need for deep frying, resulting in a crispy texture. This shortcut method can transform them into a decadent treat, proving that simple recipes can yield the most satisfying results.

When making cheese fries with steak fries, it is recommended to bake the fries first and then add the cheese and other desired toppings. This two-step process ensures that the fries are crispy and not soggy. The cheese can be shredded and melted on top of the fries in the oven, or a cheese sauce can be made on the stovetop and drizzled over the fries.

Some popular cheese options for cheese fries include cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, pepper Jack, Swiss, Colby, and American. For a more indulgent version, the fries can be layered with cheese sauce, creating a rich and creamy dish. Other toppings such as bacon, green onions, jalapeños, and sour cream can also be added to enhance the flavour and texture of the dish.

Overall, steak fries are a good base for cheese fries due to their thick cut, crispy texture, and convenience. They can be easily transformed into a decadent and indulgent dish with the addition of cheese and other toppings.

Cheese sauce can be made with butter, flour, and milk

Cheese sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used to elevate a variety of dishes, from appetizers to snacks and main courses. While there are many types of cheese sauces, a basic cheese sauce can be made with just butter, flour, and milk, along with your choice of cheese, of course!

To make a simple cheese sauce, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in an equal amount of flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for a few minutes, stirring continuously, until it forms a thick paste and loses its raw flour taste. This is a crucial step in ensuring your sauce has a smooth consistency. Next, slowly add in milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps, until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, remove the pan from the heat and stir in your choice of grated or shredded cheese. It is important to note that pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well and can make your sauce grainy, so it is recommended to grate your own cheese.

Now that you've crafted your cheese sauce, it's time to talk about how it can be used to elevate a classic comfort food: French fries. Cheese fries are a beloved snack, combining the crispy goodness of French fries with the creamy, indulgent delight of cheese sauce. While there are many ways to make cheese fries, a simple method is to start with a base of frozen or homemade French fries. Bake your fries until they're golden and crispy, and then generously top them with your cheese sauce. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle on some smoky bacon, fresh herbs, or chopped green onions.

When it comes to choosing a cheese for your sauce, the options are endless, but some popular choices for cheese fries include cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack. You can also finish your cheesy creation with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino Romano cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.

So, there you have it! A basic cheese sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you're indulging in some cheesy fries or pouring it over broccoli, this sauce is sure to impress.

Toppings include bacon, green onions, and jalapeños

Texas Cheese Fries are a popular dish, especially in the South, and they are easy to make. They are crispy seasoned fries loaded with melted cheese, bacon, jalapeños, and green onions. You can also add a dollop of sour cream.

To make Texas Cheese Fries, first, bake your favourite frozen fries according to the package instructions. You can use steak fries, crinkle fries, or thin, fast-food-style fries. Then, take them out of the oven and top with shredded cheese—a combination of sharp cheddar and another melting cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Colby, or pepper Jack. Put the baking sheet back in the oven and bake until the cheese has melted. Finally, take the cheesy fries out of the oven and sprinkle them with crumbled bacon, green onions, and jalapeño slices. You can also add scallions for some extra flavour.

If you want to add some protein to your Texas Cheese Fries, you can top them with grilled chicken, pulled pork, or sliced carne asada. You can also add some barbecue sauce or chili on the side.

When storing Texas Cheese Fries, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. However, it is best to serve them fresh, as freezing can affect the texture of the cheese and fries.

Serve with ranch or sour cream on the side

Cheese fries are a delicious snack, side dish, or appetizer. They are easy to make and can be customized with various toppings and sauces. Here are some tips and suggestions for serving cheese fries with ranch or sour cream on the side:

Choosing the Right Cheese

The type of cheese you choose for your cheese fries can greatly impact the overall taste and texture of the dish. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for cheese fries as it melts well and has a sharp, distinctive flavour. Other types of cheese that pair well with French fries include Monterey Jack, mozzarella, colby, pepper jack, Swiss, and American cheese. You can also finish your cheese fries with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino romano cheese for an extra savoury touch.

Preparing the French Fries

The base of your cheese fries is, of course, the French fries themselves. You can choose to make your own homemade fries by cutting potatoes into wedges, tossing them with olive oil, and baking them until crispy. Alternatively, you can opt for the convenience of frozen French fries, which can be baked in the oven until golden brown and crispy. Steak fries, crinkle-cut fries, or waffle fries tend to hold up well under the weight of cheese and other toppings.

Creating the Cheese Sauce

For a classic cheese sauce, you'll need butter, flour, milk, and shredded cheese. Start by melting the butter and whisking in the flour until a thick paste forms. Then, slowly add the milk and continue whisking until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and gradually add the shredded cheese, whisking until smooth after each addition. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste. You can also add a splash of vinegar to your cheese sauce for a glossy finish and a subtle tangy flavour.

Assembling the Cheese Fries

Once your French fries are baked to perfection, it's time to assemble your cheese fries. Place your warm fries on a platter and generously pour the warm cheese sauce over them. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also layer your fries and cheese sauce, repeating the layers for an extra indulgent treat. Top your cheese fries with additional toppings of your choice, such as crumbled bacon, green onions, jalapeños, or fresh herbs.

Serving with Ranch or Sour Cream

As requested, serving your cheese fries with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream can elevate the dish and provide a creamy contrast to the melted cheese. You can also offer these as dipping options, allowing your guests to customise their cheese fry experience. Don't forget to serve your cheese fries immediately after preparation, as they are best enjoyed while hot and crispy!

Frequently asked questions