Smoky Bacon BBQ Beef Loaded Fries

Written by Sarah Gardner
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Nothing says indulgence quite like a big, messy plate of loaded fries. These Smoky Bacon BBQ Beef Loaded Fries are the perfect comfort food—crispy fries smothered in juicy, saucy beef, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and a touch of heat from jalapeños. Whether you're making them for a game day, a backyard BBQ, or just because you deserve it, these loaded fries will be the MVP of any meal.

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Smoky Bacon BBQ Beef Loaded Fries

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Skillet
  • Spatula
  • Mixing bowls

Ingredients
  

For the Fries

  • 1 lb frozen French fries or homemade if you’re feeling fancy
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

For the BBQ Beef

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 blend for juiciness
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Toppings

  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup pickled jalapeño slices
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro optional

Instructions
 

Prepare the Fries

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Spread the fries on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
  3. Bake according to package instructions (usually 20-25 minutes), flipping halfway for extra crispiness.
    baking sheet lined with parchment paper, filled with evenly spread uncooked French fries PIN IT

Cook the BBQ Beef

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil.
  2. Sauté the chopped onion for 3 minutes until soft, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
    browned ground beef coated in a thick, glossy barbecue sauce PIN IT

Assemble the Loaded Fries

  1. Once fries are crispy, remove from the oven and pile the BBQ beef on top.
  2. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the beef.
  3. Return the tray to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts.

Add the Final Touches

  1. Scatter the crumbled bacon, jalapeño slices, and chopped green onions over the top.
  2. Drizzle with sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro if using.

Serve & Enjoy

  1. Serve immediately while everything is hot and melty!

Pairings

  • Drink: A cold, crisp lager or smoky bourbon cocktail complements the richness of the dish.
  • Side: A simple coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob balances out the indulgence.
  • Dipping Sauce: Try ranch, chipotle mayo, or extra BBQ sauce for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or shredded brisket would work beautifully if you want a twist.

2. What kind of fries work best?

Crispy shoestring, waffle fries, or crinkle-cut fries hold up well under all the toppings.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the BBQ beef and bacon ahead of time, but assemble everything fresh to keep the fries crispy.

4. Can I make it spicier?

Absolutely! Add extra jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne in the beef mix.

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