🧂 Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne hot sauce
• chopped green onions
• crispy bacon bits
• jalapeño slices
• Sour cream

📖 Instructions

🔪 Prep the Fries:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Wash and peel (optional) the potatoes, then cut them into thin fries.
Toss the fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.

🔥 Bake the Fries:
Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

🧀 Make the Cheese Sauce:
While the fries bake, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Gradually add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens (about 3–4 minutes).
Lower the heat, then stir in the shredded cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne or hot sauce, if desired.

🧩 Assemble the Cheese Fries:
Once the fries are done, transfer them to a plate or serving dish.
Pour the cheese sauce generously over the fries.

✨ Add Toppings:
Top with your choice of optional toppings: green onions, crispy bacon, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream.

🍴 Serving Tips:
Serve with a side of ranch or ketchup for dipping.
For an even cheesier experience, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese over the fries before baking them for an extra layer of melted cheese.