Ultimate Loaded Buffalo Fries
Elevate your snack game with these Ultimate Loaded Buffalo Fries, the perfect blend of crispy oven-baked potato wedges smothered in a zesty Buffalo sauce, topped with melted cheese and fresh garnishes. These fries are not just a treat for parties but also a comforting dish you can whip up anytime cravings strike. With minimal oil and packed with flavor, they strike a balance between indulgence and a healthier option. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with each bite of this crowd-pleasing delight. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or a satisfying snack, these fries will have everyone asking for more!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
potatoes
3 lbs (unpeeled & cut into wedges)
vegetable oil
3 tablespoons (drizzled over potatoes)
salt
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
pepper
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
hot sauce
1 cup (Buffalo sauce, like Frank's)
butter
2 tablespoons (for mixing with hot sauce)
sharp cheddar cheese
4 ounces (shredded)
blue cheese
4 ounces (crumbled)
green onions
4 (sliced)
cilantro
1/4 cup (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for perfect crispiness.
2
In a large stockpot, combine your cut potato wedges with cold water. Place it over high heat and bring to a boil. Once boiling, let them cook for just 5 minutes before draining thoroughly to remove excess water.
3
Transfer the drained potato wedges to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with vegetable oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Gently toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.
4
Spread the seasoned potato wedges out on a lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, then flip the potatoes and roast for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until they are deeply golden and crispy on the outside.
5
While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the Buffalo sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce and butter over low heat. Stir occasionally until the butter has melted and the mixture is well combined.
6
Once the potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and switch on the broiler to its highest setting.
7
Drizzle the Buffalo wing sauce evenly over the golden fries, then generously sprinkle both sharp cheddar cheese and blue cheese crumbles on top.
8
Return the baking sheet to the oven and place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
9
Remove the fries from the oven and immediately garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro. Serve warm and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Ultimate Loaded Buffalo Fries?
Ultimate Loaded Buffalo Fries are crispy oven-baked potato wedges smothered in a zesty Buffalo sauce, topped with melted sharp cheddar and blue cheese, and garnished with green onions and cilantro.
What kind of potatoes should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3 lbs of potatoes. While the type isn't specified, russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are generally best for creating crispy wedges.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, the recipe suggests keeping the potatoes unpeeled and cutting them into wedges for added texture and nutrition.
Why do I need to boil the potatoes before roasting?
Boiling the potatoes for 5 minutes before roasting helps ensure the inside is soft and fluffy while allowing the outside to get extra crispy in the oven.
How long should I boil the potato wedges?
Once the water reaches a boil, let the potato wedges cook for exactly 5 minutes before draining them thoroughly.
What oven temperature is required for the fries?
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure the fries become deeply golden and crispy.
How long do the fries need to roast in the oven?
The fries should be roasted for 25-30 minutes, then flipped and roasted for another 25-30 minutes, totaling about 50-60 minutes.
What seasonings are used for the potato wedges?
The wedges are seasoned with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
How do I make the Buffalo sauce?
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of hot sauce and 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat, stirring until the butter has melted and combined.
Which hot sauce is recommended for the Buffalo sauce?
The recipe recommends using a Buffalo-style hot sauce, specifically mentioning Frank's as a good option.
What types of cheese are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 4 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 4 ounces of crumbled blue cheese.
Can I substitute the blue cheese?
Yes, if you aren't a fan of blue cheese, you can substitute it with more cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even Gorgonzola.
How do I melt the cheese on the fries?
After drizzling the sauce and adding cheese, place the baking sheet under the broiler on the highest setting for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling.
What garnishes are added at the end?
The fries are garnished with 4 sliced green onions and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro.
Are these Buffalo fries spicy?
Yes, they have a spicy kick due to the 1 cup of hot sauce used, but the butter and cheese help to mellow out the heat.
How can I make the fries even crispier?
Ensuring the potatoes are drained thoroughly after boiling and spreading them in a single layer without overcrowding the pan will help maximize crispiness.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
These fries are oven-baked with minimal oil (3 tablespoons for 3 lbs of potatoes), making them a healthier alternative to deep-fried loaded fries.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheddar and blue cheese substitutes.
What is the best way to serve these fries?
They are best served warm immediately after the cheese has melted and the fresh garnishes have been added.
Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen potato wedges or fries; simply bake them according to the package instructions and then follow the Buffalo sauce and topping steps.
How many people does this recipe serve?
While not explicitly stated, 3 lbs of potatoes typically serves about 4 to 6 people as an appetizer or snack.
What dip goes well with these Buffalo fries?
Ranch dressing or extra blue cheese dressing are classic pairings that complement the spicy Buffalo flavor.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy bacon bits along with the cheese would make these fries even more substantial.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet?
Using a lined baking sheet (with parchment paper or a silicone mat) ensures the potatoes don't stick and makes cleanup easier.
Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?
Yes, you can air fry the seasoned wedges at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through, before adding the sauce and cheese.
What should I do if I don't like cilantro?
You can easily omit the cilantro or replace it with fresh parsley for a similar fresh look without the specific cilantro flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness; the microwave may make them soggy.
Can I make the Buffalo sauce in advance?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just gently reheat it before drizzling over the fries.
Is it okay to use salted butter for the sauce?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to taste the sauce before adding any additional salt to the recipe.
What makes these fries 'Ultimate'?
They are considered 'Ultimate' because they combine double-baked crispiness, a homemade Buffalo butter sauce, two types of melted cheese, and fresh herbs.