Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries with Savory Gravy: The Ultimate Comfort Food

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Are you craving something indulgent, crispy, and packed with flavor? Imagine crispy fries, rich, savory gravy, melted cheese curds, and crispy bacon all coming together in a single, mouthwatering dish. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll want to share with family and friends—and the perfect treat to elevate any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game night, enjoying a casual family dinner, or simply craving something hearty, Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries with Savory Gravy is a recipe that promises satisfaction with every bite.

This article will guide you through the step-by-step process of making this incredible dish from scratch. You’ll learn how to create perfectly crispy fries, a rich and savory gravy, and the best way to top it all off with cheese curds and bacon. Plus, we’ll provide helpful tips and substitutions to make this dish your own.    Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

What Makes Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries So Irresistible?

Crispy Fries: The Perfect Crunch

The secret to making these fries truly irresistible lies in the texture. Russet potatoes, with their high starch content, are the ideal choice for creating fries with a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. The seasoning mix of olive oil, paprika, and cracked black pepper enhances the flavor of each fry, adding depth without overpowering the dish.

But what makes these fries stand out is the baking method. Tossing the potatoes in oil and seasoning evenly before baking ensures they crisp up nicely in the oven. The key is to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet, allowing the heat to reach every inch of the potatoes for that perfect golden crisp.

Savory Gravy: A Rich, Flavorful Base

No loaded fries would be complete without a rich, flavorful gravy to tie everything together. In this recipe, you’ll combine both chicken stock and beef stock to create a savory sauce that is both comforting and indulgent. The bacon drippings add a smoky richness to the gravy, while the butter and flour work together to thicken the mixture into the perfect consistency. The beauty of this gravy lies in its balance—the savory depth from the stocks and bacon drippings is complemented by the smooth, buttery texture that coats the fries beautifully.

Toppings: Cheese Curds and Crispy Bacon

What would loaded fries be without the toppings? For this dish, cheese curds (preferably cheddar) melt perfectly over the warm fries, giving the dish that quintessentially gooey texture that makes each bite satisfying. Cheese curds are essential here, as they offer a slightly firmer texture compared to regular shredded cheese, which allows them to melt just right without completely dissolving into the gravy.

Of course, no loaded fries would be complete without crispy bacon. The center-cut bacon used in this recipe adds a nice balance of crispy texture and smoky flavor, elevating the overall dish. Plus, the chopped chives sprinkled on top provide a fresh, herby finish that cuts through the richness, giving the dish a well-rounded taste.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Any Occasion

Family Gatherings and Casual Dinners

This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries with Savory Gravy will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a sure hit with both adults and kids.

Game Nights and Parties

Looking for the perfect snack for your next game night or party? This dish has you covered. The combination of crispy fries, savory gravy, cheese curds, and bacon makes it feel like a celebration in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to share and can be made in large batches to feed a crowd. You can even make it a DIY bar where everyone adds their own toppings—cheese curds, bacon, gravy—turning this comfort food into a fun and interactive experience.

No Wine Needed—Just Pure Comfort

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Unlike many comfort foods that pair best with a specific type of wine or drink, Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries with Savory Gravy are so rich and satisfying that they don’t require anything fancy. All you need is a cozy space and good company to make this dish a hit.

How to Make Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries with Savory Gravy

Ingredients – What You’ll Need

Before you dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a quick list of the ingredients for this recipe:

Ingredient	Quantity
Russet potatoes	5 large
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Paprika	1/2 tsp
Cracked black pepper	1/2 tsp
Bacon (center cut)	5 slices
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Shallot (finely chopped)	1 tbsp
Butter	4 tbsp
All-purpose flour	1/3 cup
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	1 tsp
Chicken stock	2 cups
Beef stock	2 cups
Cheese curds (cheddar)	2 cups
Chives (chopped)	1/4 cup

Instructions – Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Potatoes: Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly, then cut them into ¼-inch thick strips lengthwise. Toss the potato strips in a large bowl with olive oil, paprika, and cracked black pepper until they are evenly coated.

2. Bake the Fries: Arrange the seasoned potato strips in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet. Make sure not to crowd them, as this will prevent them from crisping up properly. Bake on the middle rack for about 20 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy.

3. Prepare the Gravy: While the fries are baking, it’s time to prepare the savory gravy. In a large saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and chop it roughly, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.

Next, sauté the garlic and shallots in the bacon drippings for about 30 seconds. Then, add the butter and let it melt completely.

4. Make the Roux and Add the Stocks: Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Gradually add the chicken stock and beef stock, then season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring often.

5. Assemble the Dish: Once the fries are baked and crispy, remove them from the oven and season them with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Arrange the fries on a serving platter and top them with the cheese curds and chopped bacon. Drizzle the hot gravy over the top and garnish with freshly chopped chives.

Tips for Perfect Fries and Gravy Every Time

• For Crispy Fries: Make sure you toss the fries evenly in oil and seasoning. It’s also important to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly. If you’re using an air fryer, this method works great, too—just adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes at 400°F for crispy results.
• Avoid Lumpy Gravy: To avoid lumps in your gravy, always add the stock gradually. Stir continuously as you add the liquids to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Choosing the Right Cheese Curds: Cheddar curds are the best choice for this dish. They melt just the right amount, giving you that gooey, cheesy texture without turning into a messy, melted puddle. If you can’t find cheese curds, shredded cheddar can also work.

Nutrition Information – How Many Calories Does This Comfort Food Dish Have?

For those keeping track of their intake, here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition for each serving:

• Calories per serving: Approximately 600 calories
• Fat: 40g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

This dish is indulgent, so it’s best enjoyed on occasion or as a hearty treat!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. The gravy will thicken just as well with this alternative.

2. How can I make this recipe lighter?
You can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and reduce the amount of butter used in the gravy. You can also bake the fries instead of frying them for a healthier version.

3. Can I make these fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the fries and store them in the fridge before baking. You can also make the gravy in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Conclusion – Why You’ll Love Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries with Savory Gravy

This recipe takes the classic loaded fries to the next level, offering a perfect balance of crispy, savory, and indulgent flavors. Whether you’re looking for the perfect side dish, a satisfying snack, or a crowd-pleasing meal, Crispy Bacon and Cheese Curds Fries with Savory Gravy is sure to hit the spot. The combination of crispy fries, rich gravy, and melty cheese curds is unbeatable.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and start cooking this irresistible dish today. Your taste buds will thank you!

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