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A generous serving of crispy french fries generously topped with savory chili and melted cheese

Game-Day Chili Cheese Fries with a Secret Weapon

Indulge in these ultimate Game-Day Chili Cheese Fries, featuring a secret weapon for extra-thick chili. Perfect for sharing, this recipe guarantees crispy fries smothered in cheesy, flavorful goodness.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking Sheet
  • Small Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Oven-Safe Platter or Cast-Iron Skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 - 2 pounds frozen French Fries (steak, crinkle, or shoestring)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can hearty canned chili (or 2 cups homemade chili)
  • 1.5 - 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • 1-2 teaspoons cornstarch

Optional Toppings

  • Diced red onion
  • jalapeƱo slices
  • sour cream
  • chopped fresh cilantro
  • hot sauce

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven as per package instructions and arrange fries in a single layer on a baking sheet, lightly spraying with oil if desired, then bake until golden and crispy.

Chili Preparation

  • While fries bake, heat chili in a small saucepan over medium-low heat; stir in cornstarch until smooth and chili slightly thickens.

Assembly

  • Once fries are crispy, remove and combine them on an oven-safe platter or skillet, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
  • Spoon the thickened chili over the cheese-covered fries, then top with the remaining shredded cheese.

Final Bake and Serve

  • Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly; for an extra golden top, broil briefly, watching carefully.
  • Remove from oven, add desired toppings, and serve immediately.

Notes

For crispier fries, ensure they are in a single layer and rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking. Adjust cornstarch to achieve desired chili thickness. Be mindful when broiling to prevent burning!