Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by tossing your freshly cut Russet potatoes with the olive oil, black pepper, and garlic powder until they are evenly coated. Spread them in a single layer on a half sheet pan or large baking sheet. Bake at 450ºF for 50-60 minutes, flipping halfway, until they are wonderfully crispy and golden brown. If you prefer, an air fryer works beautifully too! Air fry at 400ºF for about 40 minutes, remembering to shake the basket every 15-20 minutes for even crisping.
- During the last 15 minutes of your fries baking, start on the toppings. Cook the smoked beef bacon pieces in a pan over medium-high heat until they are perfectly crispy. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, saving that flavorful rendered fat! Next, brown the ground beef in the remaining bacon butter. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully browned. Turn off the heat and stir in the sugar-free ketchup, light mayo, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and pickle juice. Mix everything thoroughly until the sauce has thickened and coated the beef beautifully.
- Once the fries are done and glistening, remove them from the oven. Season them with a few pinches of kosher salt to taste. You can either gently push all the fries together into the center of the sheet pan, or for a cozier presentation, transfer them to a quarter sheet pan or a cast iron skillet.
- Evenly place half of the American cheese slices over the fries, followed by the flavorful ground beef mixture. Finish by layering the remaining cheese slices on top. Pop it back into the oven for just 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly.
- The grand finale! Remove your magnificent Cheeseburger Loaded Fries from the oven. Sprinkle with the crispy cooked smoked beef bacon pieces. Now comes the fun part: add your favorite toppings! Fresh chives, tangy diced pickles or relish, or a handful of chopped pickled peppers are always a hit. Serve immediately while everything is hot and gooey, and enjoy every single bite!
Notes
Key Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Loaded Fries
- Crispy Fries: For homemade, use Russet potatoes. Soak them in cold water, pat completely dry, and bake at 450°F in a single layer. An air fryer also works great for extra crispiness.
- Best Cheese: American cheese provides the smoothest melt. For best results, layer half the cheese, then the beef, then the rest of the cheese. If using other cheeses like cheddar, shred your own to avoid additives and ensure a better melt.
- Flavorful Beef: Enhance the flavor with additions like smoky paprika or a splash of beef broth. To get a good flavor crust, sear the beef in a pan that is not overcrowded.
- Make-Ahead: You can cook the beef mixture, mix the burger sauce, and chop toppings 1-2 days in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
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Troubleshooting:
- Soggy Fries: Ensure fries are in a single layer and serve immediately.
- Bland Beef: Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
- Separated Cheese Sauce: Add cheese gradually over low heat. Fix it by whisking in a splash of warm milk.
- Reheating Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The best way to reheat is in an oven or air fryer at 350°F to restore crispness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the fries soggy.