Loaded Cheese Fries with BBQ Beef

These loaded cheese fries with BBQ pulled beef combine crispy golden potatoes with tender, flavorful beef and gooey melted cheese for a satisfying comfort meal that never fails to impress. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a weekend snack, this recipe brings together rich, smoky BBQ flavors with a hint of spice and creamy cheese to create something truly special.

I first made this when I had leftover brisket and a craving for something indulgent. Now it has become a go-to when I want to treat myself or impress friends with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• Beef chuck or brisket: choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness and richness; cooked shredded beef works well to save time
• Russet potatoes: ideal for fries because of their high starch content, yielding crisp outsides and fluffy insides
• Roast potato seasoning: adds a savory depth; opt for blends with garlic and herbs for maximum flavor
• BBQ sauce: pick your favorite variety, smoky or sweet depending on your mood
• Light cream cheese: helps bind the BBQ beef and adds creaminess without heaviness
• Shredded cheese blend: cheddar or a mix of cheeses works best to get that perfect melt and flavor boost
• Sriracha mayo: adds a spicy, tangy kick that cuts through the richness
• Green onion: provides a fresh, crisp note
• Olive oil cooking spray: helps crisp the fries without excess oil
• Salt: essential for seasoning potato water and bringing flavor out in the fries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the beef:

If using raw beef, place it in a pot of salted water or broth and simmer gently for one and a half to two hours until tender and easy to shred. Alternatively, use pre-cooked shredded beef to save time.

Make the fries:

Cut russet potatoes into evenly sized fries to ensure even cooking. Toss them lightly with olive oil cooking spray and your chosen roast potato seasoning. Arrange in a single layer for best crisping. Air fry at 385 degrees Fahrenheit or bake in a 400-degree oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and crispy on the outside yet soft inside.

Prepare the BBQ beef topping:

Combine shredded beef with cream cheese and BBQ sauce in a bowl. Stir well until the mixture is creamy and the beef is fully coated, ensuring every bite is decadent and flavorful.

Assemble and melt:

Transfer the fries to an oven-safe dish or keep them in the air fryer basket. Spread the BBQ pulled beef mixture evenly on top, then generously sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake or air fry for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts completely and turns bubbly and golden in spots.

Garnish and serve:

Finish off the dish by drizzling with sriracha mayo for a gentle heat, and sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh crunch that complements the rich layers beneath.

Save

My favorite ingredient is the BBQ pulled beef because it transforms simple fries into a main event full of rich, tangy flavor. I remember serving this for a casual night in with friends, and it quickly disappeared as everyone raved about the perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness to the fries and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving as it can make fries soggy.

Ingredient substitutions

For a lighter version, swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a soft cheese like ricotta. Use smoked gouda or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a different cheesy profile. Substitute the BBQ sauce with a spicy chipotle sauce for a smoky heat twist.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness. This dish also pairs nicely with a cold beer or a sparkling soda to cut through the creamy and savory layers.

Save

Cultural context

Loaded fries are a popular comfort food in many cultures, evolving from simple chips to loaded plates with diverse toppings. The combination with BBQ beef gives these fries an American barbecue flair combined with casual eating that has turned into beloved street food in some regions.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Beef chuck or brisket are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, especially when slow-cooked or simmered until easily shredded.

→ How can I make the fries crispy without deep frying?

Tossing fries lightly with cooking spray and seasoning, then air frying or baking at a high temperature creates a crispy exterior without deep frying.

→ Can I adjust the spice level in this dish?

Yes, adjust the amount of sriracha mayo or swap with a milder sauce to suit your preferred spice tolerance.

→ What cheese blend works well for topping?

A mix of cheddar with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack provides a creamy, flavorful melt.

→ Is there a shortcut to preparing the beef?

Using pre-cooked shredded beef saves time while still delivering rich, tender results when mixed with cream cheese and BBQ sauce.