Ultimate Loaded Chili Cheese Fries

Ingredients:

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Fries:

• 4 large potatoes, cut into fries (you can also use frozen fries)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream (optional)
• Chopped green onions or cilantro (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the Chili:
   • In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
   • Stir in kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Prepare the Fries:
   • Preheat the oven to the temperature recommended for the fries.
   • If using fresh potatoes, cut them into fries, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake according to package instructions until crispy. If using frozen fries, bake them according to package instructions.
3. Assemble the Loaded Fries:
   • Once the fries are done and crispy, transfer them to an oven-safe dish or a baking sheet.
   • Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the fries.
   • Spoon the prepared chili generously over the cheese-covered fries.
   • Top the chili with another layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Bake:
   • Place the assembled fries back into the oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Remove the loaded chili cheese fries from the oven.
   • Optionally, garnish with dollops of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions or cilantro.
6. Enjoy:
   • Serve the Ultimate Loaded Chili Cheese Fries immediately while hot as a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or meal.

These Ultimate Loaded Chili Cheese Fries are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a comforting treat on your own. Adjust toppings and seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!