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Chili Cheese Fries

Quick and Easy Mini-Meal or Snack Recipe

I absolutely love these chili cheese fries! After all, who can resist the blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness, all in one dish? Whether you’re craving a quick snack, need a party appetizer for game day, or want a satisfying comfort food meal, this easy recipe will hit the spot. You only need a few ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

  • Frozen French fries
  • Chili
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream or plain yogurt (optional)
  • Sliced jalapeño peppers (optional)
chili cheese fries ingredients

Other options:

  • Chopped onion 
  • Chopped pimentos
  • Sliced olives
  • Chives
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Hot sauce

Directions

First, you’ll need to prepare the fries. Cook them according to the directions on the package. I used my air fryer. But whether you bake, fry, or air-fry them, aim for golden brown and crispy.

Next, heat the chili. While the fries are cooking, heat the canned chili in a small saucepan over medium heat until it is heated all the way through. 

frozen french fries in a pan

Assemble the ingredients. After the fries are done, transfer them to a microwave-safe dish. If you choose to use the oven instead, you can use a metal pan. I used a medium casserole dish.

Now add the toppings. Pour the hot chili evenly over the fries.

chili over fries

Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. You can add more if you want extra the results to be extra cheesy. You can also make this cheddar cheese sauce if you have a little extra time.

shredded cheese over chili

It’s time for the last step. Place the dish in the microwave for about a minute or until the cheese melts. If you choose to use the oven, set it on 350 and heat them for 5-10 minutes.

melted cheese over chili and fries

Now serve and enjoy! Serve the chili cheese fries hot. Add a side of sour cream, yogurt, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor.

pan and plate of chili cheese fries with a side of sour cream and jalapeno peppers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple yet full of bold flavors. Using frozen French fries saves time, while canned chili provides a hearty, meaty topping.

The melted cheese ties everything together, and for those who love a little extra zest, optional toppings like sour cream and jalapeños add an extra kick. Best of all, it’s ready in minutes!

chili cheese fries on a plate with sour cream and jalapeno peppers

Tips for the Best Results

Crispy Fries are Key: For extra crispiness, bake the fries a little longer than the package suggests. Or if you want to make your fries from scratch, try this basic French fry recipe.

Upgrade the Chili: If you have time, make this homemade chili con carne for an even richer flavor.

Choose Your Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses all work well.

Spice it Up: Add hot sauce, diced onions, or crumbled bacon for an extra boost of flavor.

What to Serve with Chili Cheese Fries

There are so many other dishes that go with chili cheese fries. When I serve it as a meal, I like this everything garden salad.

 If you want a little extra south-of-the-border flavor, make some of this classic guacamole. It’s creamy and smooth, so it’s the perfect accompaniment with this dish.

For dessert, my family enjoys this refreshing creamy cool fruit salad. Yes, it’s called a salad, but it’s sweet, so we like it after a spicy meal.

Final Thoughts

plate of chili cheese fries with sour cream and jalapeno peppers

Chili cheese fries are the ultimate savory treat—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for game night, movie night, or just because you’re craving something delicious, this easy recipe won’t disappoint. Try it today and savor every bite!

Yield: 4 servings

Chili Cheese Fries

plate of chili cheese fries with sour cream and jalapeno peppers

Chili cheese fries are a delicious, quick and easy snack.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 32 ounces frozen French fries
  • 1 can chili (15 ounce can)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or plain yogurt (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeño peppers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare French fries according to the directions on the package and heat the chili in a small saucepan.
  2. Put the fries in a microwave-safe dish.
  3. Pour the chili evenly over the fries.
  4. Sprinkle the cheese over the top of the chili and fries.
  5. Microwave for about a minute or until the cheese melts.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Offer a side of sour cream, yogurt, and sliced jalapeño peppers.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 614Total Fat 29gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 50mgSodium 1355mgCarbohydrates 70gFiber 5gSugar 6gProtein 21g

The nutrition information is a product of online calculators. I try to provide true and accurate information, but these numbers are estimates.

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