Craving those irresistible Outback Steakhouse cheese fries? Forget the drive and the wait – this recipe lets you recreate that iconic cheesy, crispy goodness right in your own kitchen! It's surprisingly easy, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade, restaurant-quality cheese fries, perfect for a quick dinner, a game-night snack, or simply a delicious treat any time. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick fries
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil) for frying
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (for a touch of smokiness)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for a creamy texture)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Fries:
Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. After soaking, pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving that perfect golden-brown crispiness.
Step 2: Frying the Fries:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Season immediately with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 3: The Cheesy Goodness:
While the fries are still hot, transfer them to a large oven-safe bowl or baking dish. Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the fries. Drizzle with melted butter and mayonnaise. The combination of melted butter and mayonnaise adds richness and creaminess, perfectly complementing the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection:
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, homemade Outback Steakhouse-inspired cheese fries!
Cooking Tips for Extra Crispy Fries:
- Double-frying: For extra crispy fries, you can try double-frying. Fry the potatoes once at a lower temperature (around 325°F) for a few minutes to partially cook them, then again at a higher temperature (375°F) for a short time to crisp them up.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy fries. Fry in batches for best results.
- Use a thermometer: Using a deep-fry thermometer ensures the oil is at the correct temperature for optimal frying.
Variations:
- Spicy Cheese Fries: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Cheese Fries: Crumble cooked bacon over the cheese fries before baking for extra savory flavor.
- Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, provolone, or a blend of your favorites.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. Use a nutritional calculator for a more precise estimate. Expect a high calorie count due to the cheese and oil.
This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes that can be created at home using simple ingredients. It’s a great alternative to takeout, helping you achieve healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills! This recipe is definitely one of the best recipes you'll find for satisfying cheese fries.