Bacon cheese fries are a popular dish enjoyed by many. The combination of crispy fries, savory bacon, and gooey melted cheese is simply irresistible. Traditionally, bacon cheese fries are made by deep frying the potatoes and bacon, but with the advent of air fryers, you can now make this delicious dish with less oil and hassle. In this article, we will share with you a quick and delicious recipe for making bacon cheese fries in an air fryer. So, let’s get started!
Gathering the Ingredients
What You’ll Need:
To make bacon cheese fries in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– Frozen French fries
– Bacon slices
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– Optional toppings (such as green onions or jalapenos)
Preparing the Air Fryer
Before you begin, make sure your air fryer is clean and ready for use. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your bacon cheese fries cook evenly and obtain a crispy texture.
Preparing the Ingredients
1. Bacon
Take the bacon slices and cut them into smaller pieces. This will make it easier to distribute the crispy bacon goodness evenly over the fries. You can cut the bacon into strips or dice it into small bits, depending on your personal preference.
2. Frozen French Fries
For convenience, we recommend using frozen French fries. They are readily available in most grocery stores and will save you time and effort. However, if you prefer homemade fries, feel free to prepare them from scratch and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Cooking Bacon Cheese Fries in the Air Fryer
1. Layering the Fries and Bacon
Take out the basket from the air fryer and spread a single layer of frozen French fries. Ensure that the fries are evenly spread and not overcrowded in the basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Next, sprinkle the bacon pieces over the fries, making sure they are evenly distributed. The bacon will release its flavorful oils as it cooks, adding a smoky taste to the fries, making them even more delicious.
2. Cooking Process
Place the basket back into the air fryer and set the cooking time for approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fries. Keep in mind that every air fryer is different, so it’s important to monitor the cooking process closely.
During the cooking process, remember to shake the basket a few times to ensure that the fries and bacon are cooked evenly. This will prevent any fries from sticking together or becoming too crispy.
Adding the Cheese
1. Time to Melt
Once the fries and bacon are cooked to your desired crispiness, it’s time to add the cheese. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese evenly over the fries and bacon. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorite cheeses. The choice is yours!
2. Melting Process
Now, place the basket back into the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese has melted and turned golden brown. Keep an eye on the cheese to prevent it from burning.
Serving and Enjoying the Bacon Cheese Fries
1. Seasoning and Toppings
Once the bacon cheese fries are ready, remove the basket from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. It’s time to season them with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. If you like a little extra kick, you can also add some crushed red pepper flakes or other seasonings of your choice.
To take these bacon cheese fries to the next level, you can also top them with some freshly chopped green onions or diced jalapenos for a burst of flavor and added freshness.
2. Dipping Sauces
Bacon cheese fries are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic choices like ketchup, mayonnaise, and barbecue sauce are always crowd-pleasers. Alternatively, you can get creative and try out different homemade dipping sauces to complement the flavors of the bacon and cheese.
3. Sharing with Friends and Family
Bacon cheese fries make for a great appetizer or side dish at gatherings with friends and family. Serve them straight from the air fryer in a large platter, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of flavors. Be prepared for compliments and requests for the recipe!
In conclusion, making bacon cheese fries in an air fryer is a quick and delicious way to satisfy your cravings. With the help of this recipe, you can effortlessly create a plateful of crispy fries, smoky bacon, and gooey melted cheese. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to indulge in a delightful and easy-to-make treat. Enjoy!