Cajun Cheese Fries (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
6 medium russets, peeled and washed
02 -
1-2 tbsp of a bold cajun spice mix
03 -
2 tbsp of top-notch olive oil
04 -
A quarter cup of creamy ranch (plus extra for dipping if you'd like)
→ Creamy Cheese Sauce
05 -
⅔ cup of cold milk
06 -
2 handfuls of shredded cheddar (about 2 cups)
07 -
2 tbsp smooth butter
08 -
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
# Instructions:
01 -
Scrub and rinse the potatoes thoroughly. Dry them with a towel, peel off the skin, and slice into thick fries the size of chunky fingers (¾ inch x 3 inches).
02 -
Boil 1 quart of salty water (use 3 tablespoons of salt here). Set the raw fries above the boiling water using a steaming basket or colander. Cover it up and let steam for 10-12 minutes. A knife should slide through but not too easily—they should stay firm.
03 -
Move the steamed fries into a bowl. Pour olive oil over them, stirring gently until every piece has a nice, even coating.
04 -
Use a slotted spoon to lay the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Crank your oven to 450°F and bake for 10 minutes, then rotate the tray. Continue baking for 5-10 minutes more, keeping an eye on things so they don't scorch.
05 -
As the fries bake, melt butter in a medium pan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it well. Slowly pour in the milk and whisk until smooth. Toss in the cheese and stir until silky.
06 -
Take the fries out of the oven and sprinkle with cajun spice—it'll stick better while they're hot. Toss to coat. Splash a drizzle of ranch dressing and about ¼ cup creamy cheese sauce on top. Use extra cheese sauce for dipping if you're feeling fancy.
# Notes:
01 -
These baked Louisiana Voodoo Fries are tasty and lighter than fried ones! Crunchy fries loaded with zesty cajun spices, ranch, and gooey cheese sauce make an amazing snack or game day dish.
02 -
Want the crispiest fries? Peel your potatoes! Cooking them with a steam-then-bake method gets them soft inside but golden and crunchy on the outside.
03 -
Don’t overdo it with the cajun spice—start with a little. It’s strong and might hide the cheesy, ranch flavors if you add too much.
04 -
To reheat leftovers, spread fries on a baking sheet and pop them into a 380°F oven for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to stop them from getting too brown!