Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries

These Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries are loaded with crispy fries, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a kick of jalapeños—just like the restaurant favorite! Perfect for sharing (or not!), they’re the ultimate game-day snack or indulgent appetizer.

If you love Chili’s famous Texas Cheese Fries, you’re going to love this easy homemade version! Crispy golden fries are smothered in melted cheese, topped with crispy bacon, and finished with spicy jalapeños for the ultimate indulgent appetizer or snack.

Perfect for game day, gatherings, or when you’re just craving some cheesy, crispy goodness. Serve them with a side of cool ranch dressing for the perfect balance of flavors. Once you try these Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries, you’ll never need to order them out again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy and Cheesy – Golden fries smothered in melted cheese for the ultimate indulgence.
• Bacon Lovers’ Dream – Loaded with crispy, savory bacon for extra flavor.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep for a quick snack. Perfect for Sharing – A crowd-pleasing appetizer for game days or parties.
• Customizable Toppings – Add jalapeños, green onions, or extra cheese to suit your taste!

If you love If you love Copycat Recipes try my recipe for Wingstop Blue Cheese Recipe, Air Fryer Popeyes Chicken Sandwich (Copycat), Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe, or Copycat Popeye’s Seafood Po’Boy Recipe.

Ingredients Needed

• French fries – Crisp and golden when air-fried.
• Cheddar cheese – Melty, gooey, and full of flavor.
• Monterey Jack cheese – Adds a creamy, mild balance.
• Bacon – Crispy, smoky, and delicious.
• Garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor.
• Onion powder – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
• Seasoned salt – A perfect blend of spices for extra taste.
• Green Onions – Fresh, mild onion flavor for garnish.
• Ranch dressing – The perfect dipping sauce.
• Pickled jalapeño slices (optional) – Adds a spicy kick!

How To Make Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries

Step One– Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. Spread the frozen French fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket and set cook time for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

Step Two– Transfer the cooked fries to a heat-safe dish or foil-lined air fryer basket. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, and seasoned salt for extra flavor. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the fries, then top with crumbled bacon.

Step Three- Return the loaded fries to the air fryer and cook at 350 degrees F for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step Four– Remove from the air fryer, top with sliced green onions, and serve immediately with ranch dressing and pickled jalapeños if desired. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and savory Texas Cheese Fries!

Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Frozen Fries: For the crispiest fries, choose thicker, crinkle-cut frozen fries. They hold up better under the weight of the cheese and toppings.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fry the fries in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy. You can always cook in batches if needed.
• Use Shredded Cheese: Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese melt much better and evenly distribute over the fries compared to block cheese.
• Customize the Toppings: Add more toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or even chili for a fun twist. Make it your own!
• Serve Immediately: Cheese fries are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so serve them immediately after cooking to keep them crispy and delicious.

Storing

• Storing: Store any leftover Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the fries and toppings separate to maintain their texture.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the fries in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, adding extra cheese if needed.

Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries Recipe Faqs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries? Yes, you can cut fresh potatoes into fries, toss them in oil and seasonings, and air fry them just like frozen fries. It may take a little longer to cook.

Can I use different types of cheese for the fries? Absolutely! You can substitute the cheddar and Monterey Jack with other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While the fries are best served immediately for maximum crispiness, you can prepare the toppings and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

How do I make the fries extra crispy? Make sure to spread the fries in a single layer in the air fryer and avoid overcrowding. Shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time helps them crisp up evenly.

Can I make these cheese fries without bacon? Yes, you can leave out the bacon if you prefer a vegetarian version or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative for a similar flavor.

More Chili’s copycat recipes

• Copycat Chili’s Steak Fajitas Recipe
• Copycat Steak ‘n Shake Chili
• Chili’s Bacon Ranch Chicken Quesadillas
• Chili’s Santa Fe Chicken Salad

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