If you’re looking for a delicious and indulgent dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a fun party with friends, look no further than these amazing chili cheese fries and onion rings. Smothered in rich and flavorful chili, topped with melted cheese, onions, pickled jalapenos, and avocado, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Whether you opt for homemade or frozen fries and onion rings, this recipe is simple to follow and will leave your taste buds craving more. Here’s how to make this mouthwatering dish that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Ingredients
For the Fries
– 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
– Oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
For the Onion Rings
– 2 large yellow onions, sliced into thin rings
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup club soda
For the Chili
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
– 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Toppings
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup pickled jalapeno slices
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and diced
Instructions
1. Soak the Potatoes: Soak the potato slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove some of the starch. This step helps to make the fries crispy. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the club soda until a smooth and thick batter forms.
3. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 15 minutes. Drain the excess fat and return the skillet to the heat.
4. Add Spices and Sauce: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and cayenne pepper to the beef. Stir to combine. Stir in the tomato sauce and kidney beans and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, until slightly thickened, about 20 minutes.
Frying the Fries and Onion Rings
5. Heat the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
6. Fry the Fries: Working in batches, fry the fries until golden and crisp, about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and sprinkle with salt. Repeat with the remaining fries.
7. Fry the Onion Rings: Dip the onion rings in the batter, letting the excess drip off, and fry until golden and crisp, about 5 minutes, turning once. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and sprinkle with salt. Repeat with the remaining onion rings.
Assembling the Dish
8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Layer the Fries: Spread the fries in an even layer on the bottom of the dish.
10. Add the Chili: Spoon the chili over the fries.
11. Add Cheese: Sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.
12. Bake: Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Top the Dish: Top with the onion rings, red onion, pickled jalapeno slices, and diced avocado.
14. Serve Hot: Serve the chili cheese fries and onion rings hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Tips
– Soak the potatoes: Soaking the potato slices helps to remove excess starch, making the fries crispier.
– Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 375°F for perfectly fried fries and onion rings.
– Drain Excess Oil: Place the fried items on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
Variations
– Spicy Kick: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha over the top for an extra spicy kick.
– Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use extra beans for a vegetarian version.
– Loaded Chili Cheese Fries: Add extra toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or green onions for a loaded version.
Indulge in this decadent dish that combines the best of chili cheese fries and crispy onion rings. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!
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The Easiest Chili Cheese Fries – Midwest Foodie
