Let’s be honest—bacon and fries are two of the most beloved comfort foods in America. Now, imagine combining them into one glorious, crispy, cheesy, smoky dish. Enter: Bacon Fries. Whether you’re hosting a game night, having a movie marathon, or just craving something indulgent, bacon fries are here to steal the show.
These aren’t just any fries. They’re loaded with crispy bacon bits, gooey melted cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. You can serve them as an appetizer, a side dish, or—let’s face it—a full-on meal.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make this dish, share tips for achieving maximum crispiness, and answer your most common questions about this mouthwatering snack.
Table of contents
🛒 Ingredients for Bacon Fries
Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible snack:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Russet Potatoes | 3 large | Cut into fries |
| Bacon | 6–8 strips | Cooked and chopped |
| Shredded Cheddar | 1 cup | Or your favorite cheese |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 1/2 cup | For extra gooeyness |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Adds depth of flavor |
| Smoked Paprika | 1/2 tsp | Optional, for smokiness |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Black Pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | For coating the fries |
| Fresh Parsley | Optional | Chopped, for garnish |
| Ranch or Sour Cream | For dipping | Optional |
Pro Tip: For extra indulgence, add jalapeños or a drizzle of barbecue sauce. Pair these crispy bacon fries with a comforting bowl of 4-Ingredient Potato Soup for the ultimate cozy meal.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Fries
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and cut potatoes into fry shapes. Keep them about 1/4 inch thick for the best results.
- Soak them in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
Step 2: Bake or Fry the Potatoes
- For Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the fries in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For Frying: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 5–7 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
- While the fries are cooking, fry the bacon in a skillet until crispy.
- Let it cool slightly, then chop it into small pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Bacon Fries
- Once the fries are cooked, spread them on a baking tray.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella evenly over the fries.
- Top with crispy bacon bits.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
- Place the tray back in the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping.
Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick!
🧠 Why Bacon Fries Are So Addictive
The magic of these fries comes from the balance of flavors and textures:
- Crispy Fries: Golden, salty, and perfectly crunchy.
- Smoky Bacon: Rich, savory, and packed with umami.
- Gooey Cheese: Melted cheddar and mozzarella pull everything together.
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley adds brightness.
It’s the ultimate snack trifecta: crispy, salty, and cheesy.
🥄 Tips for the Best Bacon Fries
Perfecting bacon fries isn’t rocket science, but a few simple tricks can make all the difference. Whether you’re baking, frying, or air-frying, these tips will ensure crispy, golden fries loaded with smoky bacon goodness every single time.
- Use Russet Potatoes: These are the gold standard for fries thanks to their high starch content and ability to crisp up beautifully. Cut them into even slices to ensure consistent cooking. If you’re in a pinch, frozen fries can also work—just adjust your seasoning to pack in extra flavor.
- Don’t Skip Soaking: After slicing your potatoes, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, preventing sogginess and helping the fries crisp up evenly. Just make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before cooking to avoid steaming.
- Season Generously: Fries thrive on bold flavors, so don’t be shy with seasonings. Beyond just salt and pepper, try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a spicy Cajun mix. Season your fries both before and after cooking for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Bacon Separately: Cooking the bacon ahead of time ensures it stays crispy and flavorful. Use the leftover bacon grease to lightly toss the fries before baking for an extra punch of smoky goodness.
- Serve Hot: Bacon fries are at their absolute best when served fresh out of the oven or fryer. Letting them sit for too long can make them lose their crispiness.
- Pro Tip: Always make extra bacon. Seriously, you’ll end up snacking on half of it while you wait for the fries to cook—no judgment here!
🍟 Bacon Fry Variations
- BBQ Bacon Fries: Drizzle your crispy fries with rich barbecue sauce, sprinkle over crispy bacon bits, and top with chopped green onions for a sweet and smoky treat. These are perfect for backyard cookouts or casual gatherings.
- Buffalo Bacon Fries: If you love a spicy kick, toss your fries in tangy buffalo sauce and add a generous handful of crumbled blue cheese. The heat from the sauce combined with the creamy cheese creates an irresistible combination.
- Loaded Bacon Fries: Go all out with classic loaded toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and extra cheese. Every bite is packed with creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors—it’s basically a party on a plate.
- Breakfast Bacon Fries: Who says fries are just for lunch or dinner? Top them with a couple of fried eggs, a sprinkle of cheese, and even some diced ham for a hearty brunch dish. Serve with a side of hollandaise sauce for extra decadence. If you’re planning a full brunch spread, consider adding Best Sandwich for Potato Soup to the table.
- Tex-Mex Bacon Fries: Add guacamole, salsa, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo for a bold, Southwestern twist. Pair these fries with Cowboy Cornbread Casserole for a full-on Tex-Mex experience.
🥗 Serving Suggestions for these fries
Wondering what pairs well with your crispy bacon fries? Try these ideas:
- Grilled Burgers: Classic combo!
- Chicken Wings: A game-day favorite.
- Crispy Chicken Tenders: Perfect for dipping.
- Fresh Salad: Add a little balance to the richness.
And of course, don’t forget your favorite dipping sauces—ranch, ketchup, or chipotle mayo.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Bacon fries are typically made with crispy French fries, topped with chopped bacon, and often smothered in melted cheese. The fries can be baked, fried, or air-fried, depending on your preference. Common seasonings include garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper for extra flavor. Some versions also add toppings like green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños to enhance the dish.
Not always, but they definitely can be! The bacon used for bacon fries can be smoked or unsmoked, depending on the recipe or your personal taste. Many recipes lean towards using smoked bacon because its rich, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with crispy fries and gooey cheese. For an extra smoky kick, you can also add smoked paprika or a drizzle of smoky barbecue sauce.
Wendy’s Baconator Fries are a popular fast-food option loaded with goodness. They start with a base of crispy French fries, topped with melted cheese sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and a generous amount of crispy Applewood smoked bacon. The result is a rich, cheesy, and bacon-filled indulgence that’s perfect for satisfying those comfort food cravings.
New Jersey fries, also known as Disco Fries, are a classic diner favorite. They’re made with crispy French fries, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and smothered in brown gravy. Unlike traditional this dish, Disco Fries skip the bacon but deliver a rich, savory experience thanks to the gravy. They’re often compared to poutine, a similar Canadian dish.
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbs | 40g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and toppings.
💬 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hosting friends, treating yourself, or simply indulging in some comfort food, Bacon Fries never disappoint. They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon goodness—basically, everything you could want in a snack.
