Ingredients:

  • 32 oz frozen crinkle-cut fries
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp yellow cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 7 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange fries in a single layer and cook for 20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden-brown and crisp.
  2. Place diced bacon in a cold skillet over medium heat. Gradually increase heat and cook for 8–10 minutes until fat is rendered and bacon is mahogany-colored. Drain on paper towels.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for 1 minute. Slowly stream in milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and fold in grated cheddar, smoked paprika, and cayenne until glossy.
  4. Layer the crispy fries on a platter. Pour the warm cheese sauce over the center, top with crispy bacon bits, dollops of sour cream, and sliced green onions.