Crispy seasoned fries topped with savory taco-seasoned ground beef, melted sharp cheddar, and fresh jalapeños. A quick and addictive loaded fries recipe.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Equipment: Baking sheet + large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 bag (28–32 oz) Ore-Ida Crispy Seasoned Fries (Zesty Seasoned or similar)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- ⅔ cup water (for the seasoning)
- 2 cups finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1–2 jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, guacamole, or hot sauce
Detailed Instructions
- Cook the fries
Preheat the oven according to the package directions (usually 425–450°F / 220–230°C).
Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Bake until golden and crispy (usually 20–25 minutes), flipping halfway through if desired. - Cook the taco beef
While the fries bake, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess grease.
Stir in the taco seasoning packet and water.
Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef. - Assemble
Remove the fries from the oven.
Transfer them to a serving plate or keep them on the baking sheet.
Spoon the hot taco beef evenly over the fries.
Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar generously over the top. - Melt the cheese
Return the loaded fries to the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
(Alternatively, microwave for 30–60 seconds if you’re in a hurry.) - Finish and serve
Top with sliced jalapeños and any extra toppings you like.
Serve immediately while the fries are still crispy and the cheese is gooey.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- For maximum crispiness, don’t overcrowd the fries on the baking sheet.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded, but the finely shredded bag works well here.
- Want extra flavor? Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the beef while cooking.
- If using fresh jalapeños, remove the seeds for less heat.
- Serve right away — the fries soften as they sit under the toppings.
Popular Variations
- Nacho style: Add black beans, corn, and a drizzle of queso.
- Bacon version: Sprinkle cooked crumbled bacon over the cheese.
- Mild version: Skip the jalapeños or use mild green chiles.
- Chicken version: Swap ground beef for ground chicken or shredded chicken + taco seasoning.
- Fully loaded: Top with sour cream, pico de gallo, and guacamole.
Serving Suggestions
Great as a game-day appetizer, fun weeknight dinner, or party food. Serve with extra napkins!
Storage & Reheating
- Best eaten fresh. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the fries will lose crispiness.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) to help restore some crunch.