Get ready for a fun twist on fries with these Cheddar Pickle Fries! Crispy, golden fries are topped with gooey cheddar cheese and tangy pickles for an amazing flavor combo.
These fries are perfect for snacking or sharing. I love serving them with a little ranch dressing on the side. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra—they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are my go-to for fries! They have the right starch content for a crispy finish. If you want a healthier option, sweet potatoes work great too, giving a sweeter flavor.
Olive Oil: This oil is perfect for baking because it helps the fries get that crispy outer layer. If you need a substitute, canola or vegetable oil are good options and are often more budget-friendly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings such a wonderful flavor to these fries. If you want a milder taste, try Monterey Jack or Mozzarella instead. For a kick, pepper jack cheese is a fun option!
Dill Pickles: Dills are fantastic for that tangy crunch! If you can’t find dill pickles, bread and butter pickles can be a sweeter alternative, but the flavor profile will change a bit.
How Can I Achieve Crispy Fries Every Time?
Crispy fries are all about the preparation and cooking method. Here’s how to make sure they turn out perfectly:
- Cut the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate. Aim for about 1/3 inch thick.
- Don’t skip the oil! It helps with crispiness and adds flavor. Make sure the fries are well-coated but not soaked.
- Spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer. If they are too crowded, they’ll steam instead of crispen up.
- Turn halfway through cooking to get even browning and crispiness.
- Keep an eye on the cheese melting stage! You want it bubbly but not overdone.
With these tips, you’ll enjoy delicious, golden, and crispy cheddar pickle fries every time!
Cheddar Pickle Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4-5 dill pickle slices, cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Ranch dressing or sour cream, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 30-35 minutes in the oven. So, you can have these tasty Cheddar Pickle Fries ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to make the fries crispy. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the Russet potatoes to remove any dirt. After they’re clean, cut them into evenly sized fries, aiming for about 1/3 inch thick so they cook evenly.
3. Season the Fries:
In a large bowl, toss the cut fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well coated. This will add great flavor and help them become crispy during baking.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure not to overcrowd them, or they won’t get that nice golden crispiness we love!
5. Bake the Fries:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remember to turn the fries halfway through so they cook evenly and turn golden brown on all sides.
6. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
Once the fries are crispy, take them out of the oven and immediately sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the hot fries. The heat will melt the cheese beautifully.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Return the fries to the oven for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking!
8. Top with Pickles:
Remove the fries again and quickly scatter the thin pickle strips over the melted cheese while it’s still warm, adding that perfect tangy crunch.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve the fries hot alongside ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, crispy Cheddar Pickle Fries!
Can I Use Frozen Fries Instead of Fresh Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you want to save time, using frozen fries is a great option. Just follow the package instructions for baking, and then proceed to melt the cheese and add the pickles as directed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, consider using sweet potatoes instead of Russets for a boost in vitamins and a slightly different flavor. You can also reduce the cheese or use a low-fat cheese option for fewer calories.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cheddar Pickle Fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore some of their crispiness.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your fries! Adding crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or even ranch seasoning can elevate the flavor even further. Get creative and make them your own!
