The next time we have friends over for dinner this is what I’m putting out for an appetizer—Oven-Baked Cheese “Fries”! This new recipe would be great as a side dish to any family dinner as well … talk about switching things up from your same ol’ boring roasted potatoes.
I haven’t had cheese fries in so long that I forgot how good they are. And now we can enjoy them without the deep-fried heaviness from your typical restaurant version. There’s no reason not to indulge in tasty oven-baked potatoes, organic cheese & bacon, and homemade ranch dressing … yum!
Best Potatoes to use for Oven-Baked Cheese Fries?
I would recommend using a Russet potato or something similar for this recipe. They are high in starch and low in moisture which leads to nice fluffy fries with crispy skins.
Do I Need to Bake with Aluminum Foil?
If you’re concerned about using tinfoil while cooking you can omit that step. I like to use it for easy clean-up. Do be sure to spray your baking surface with oil so that the potatoes do not stick. For those interested in learning more about why we think it’s okay to occasionally cook with foil you may find this scientific article helpful.
Other Favorite Appetizer Recipes
Whether you’re having people over or you make these as a side dish for your family dinners, these recipes will not disappoint. Here are a few more of our favorite appetizer recipes …
Oven-Baked Cheese Fries
Ingredients
For the "Fries"
- olive oil
- 3 medium potatoes ((Russet baking potatoes or similar), 2 lbs total)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 pieces cooked bacon (crumbled)
For the Ranch Dressing
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons fresh chives (chopped (+ extra for garnish, if desired))
- 1 teaspoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice
- 1 small garlic clove (minced)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven broiler to high. Line a sheet pan with foil for easy clean-up (optional) and spray or drizzle with a little olive oil.
- Cut the potatoes into wedges and place in one even layer on the baking sheet. Spray or drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle the salt on top.
- Place in the oven about 8 to 10 inches below the heating element and cook for about 10 minutes, until the potatoes begin to brown. Flip over and cook for another 8 or 10 minutes, until brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
- Meanwhile, whisk together all the ranch dressing ingredients and set aside.
- Once the potatoes are done, sprinkle the cheese evenly over top and put them back in the oven for 30-60 seconds, just long enough for the cheese to melt. Remove from oven, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top, drizzle with the ranch dressing, garnish with extra chives (if desired), and serve.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
I hope you enjoy this better-for-you makeover of an old favorite. So good!
Always love homemade ranch dressing! Any other sauce suggestions for non-Ranch eaters? I know, crazy!
Possibly a blue cheese dressing? https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/recipe-blue-cheese-dressing/
Or maybe a chipotle ranch, I know it’s still ranch, but with a kick! https://www.100daysofrealfood.com/sweet-spicy-salad-chipotle-ranch-dressing/
-Nicole
Lisa, thank you for this recipe! Excited to try it but since I’m prediabetic do you think sweet potatoes would work just as well?
My kids will love these thanks for sharing your recipe <3
Thank you.
I’m especially excited about a ranch dressing recipe that doesn’t use powdered mixes!!!
You’re welcome! Let us know how they turn out for you. – Nicole