Indulge in a homemade version of Arby's iconic Loaded Curly Fries, bringing the cheesy, bacony, and tangy flavors right to your kitchen. This recipe captures the essence of the fast-food favorite for a comforting treat.
Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min 4 servings
Ingredients
1 (28 oz) bag frozen curly fries
6 slices thick-cut bacon
For the Cheddar Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1.5 cups whole milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp mustard powder (optional, for depth)
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a slight kick)
1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 slices American cheese (for extra creaminess, optional)
For the Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch:
1/2 cup store-bought ranch dressing
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or more, to taste)
1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
1
Preheat oven and prepare bacon: Preheat your oven to the temperature recommended on your frozen curly fries package (typically 400°F/200°C). Lay bacon slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble once cool.
2
Bake curly fries: Spread the frozen curly fries in a single layer on a separate baking sheet. Bake according to package directions, usually 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
3
Prepare Cheddar Cheese Sauce: While fries are baking, melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle simmer, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce heat to low.
5
Stir in salt, black pepper, mustard powder (if using), and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the shredded cheddar cheese and American cheese slices (if using), stirring until completely melted and smooth. Keep warm over very low heat.
6
Prepare Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch: In a small bowl, combine the store-bought ranch dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir well to combine.
7
Assemble the Loaded Curly Fries: Once the fries are crispy, transfer them to a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle generously with the warm cheddar cheese sauce. Sprinkle with the crumbled bacon.
8
Finish by drizzling the Parmesan Peppercorn Ranch dressing over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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