I’m sure you agree that the small portions restaurants serve can be disappointing. Even big servings like Chili’s Texas cheese fries still aren’t enough to satisfy. The solution? There’s nothing better than recreating your restaurant faves at home because enjoying unlimited refills is the best hack ever! Good thing my tastebuds are sensitive to flavors. So decoding the ingredients for this copycat chili cheese fries recipe was a breeze. Woohoo! Of course, using your favorite chili recipe is a great start. 😉
Recipe Ingredients
Are you ready for the best snack ever? Because I am! So without further ado, let me share the not-so-secret recipe for fully-loaded restaurant-style chili cheese fries. 😉
How to Make Chili Cheese Fries
Make the Chili
Brown the Beef – Heat the oil in a large saucepan and brown diced beef over medium-high heat. (Photos 1-2)Cook – Add ground beef, breaking up the meat while stirring, and cook until no longer pink – about 6-7 minutes.Saute – Then toss in onions, garlic, jalapenos, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and dried thyme. Mix until thoroughly combined. Saute it for another 3-4 minutes to allow the spices to meld together. (Photos 3-4)Add the Liquids – Pour in the tomato sauce, followed by the beans and water or broth. Stir well and scrape down the sides. (Photos 5-6)Season and Simmer – Add the cumin, oregano, coriander, and salt. Then give it a stir and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add water when necessary to prevent burns and to adjust for desired thickness. (Photos 7-8)Set Aside – Turn off the stove and remove the pot from heat.
Assembly
Bake – Spread the potatoes in a single layer over a baking sheet. Bake the potatoes according to packaging instructions for about 14-16. Flip them once with a spatula until crispy or according to preference.Add the Toppings – When fries are ready, transfer them onto an oven-safe tray or pan. Top with prepared chili and sprinkle with cheese.Broil – in the oven for about 4-5 minutes or until cheese is melted.Serve – Top with desired toppings. Serve hot. Enjoy!
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead Instructions
I don’t recommend making the fries ahead of time because they get soggy. However, the chili tastes even better if you make it the day before. It keeps very well in the fridge for a couple of days. When ready to serve, reheat and serve over the fries as instructed.
Serving and Storing Instructions
These chili cheese fries are perfect for sharing. Eating these fully loaded fries with family or friends would be more fun while chatting or watching our favorite game or movie. Or not! Why share when you can have them all to yourself, right? Kidding!🤣
What to Serve with Chili Cheese Fries
Let’s level up the fun by pairing these fries with chili and cheese with equally delicious appetizer and snack recipes below.
Fried Chicken WingsBeer Battered Onion RingsSalmon CroquettesSmoked ShrimpBaked Chicken Tenders
More Drool-Worthy Fry Dip Recipes to Try
Ranch DressingBarbecue SauceHoney MustardRemoulade SauceBuffalo Sauce
Conclusion
Chili is an incredibly versatile dish, be it on its own, as a filling, a topping, or to ramp up your ordinary mac and cheese or a stew. What is your favorite way to serve chili? Let me know in the comments below.❤️
Watch How to Make It
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