Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these mind-blowing Foil Packet Chili Cheese Fries! Imagine crispy golden fries smothered in hearty chili and melted cheese, all perfectly cooked in individual packets that lock in maximum flavor and minimize cleanup. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing party snack, or a comfort food that will have everyone begging for seconds, this recipe is your ultimate solution to delicious dining with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound frozen French fries
- 1 can chili (15 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your fries cook evenly and become crispy.
- Prepare four large sheets of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long. This will be used to create individual packets for the chili cheese fries.
- On each sheet of foil, place an even layer of frozen French fries. Aim for about 1/4 pound of fries per packet, spreading them out so they cook evenly.
- Open the can of chili and spoon an even amount over the fries in each packet. Make sure to distribute the chili evenly to cover the fries.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over the chili in each packet. Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese, such as cheddar or a Mexican blend for extra flavor.
- If you are using jalapeños, add 2 tablespoons of sliced jalapeños on top of the cheese in each packet. This step is optional but adds a nice kick to the dish.
- Season each packet with salt and pepper to taste. Be mindful not to overdo it, as the chili may already contain salt.
- Fold the sides of the foil over the fries and chili, then fold the ends to create a sealed packet. Make sure it is tightly sealed to keep in the steam while cooking.
- Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and put them in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the fries are golden and crispy.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use caution when opening the foil packets, as steam will escape.
- Serve the chili cheese fries hot, directly from the foil packets. Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make foil packet chili cheese fries!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: While frozen fries work great, for an extra gourmet touch, consider using seasoned or crinkle-cut fries for added texture.
- Cheese Matters: Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend to customize your flavor profile.
- Seal Packets Carefully: Ensure your foil packets are tightly sealed to trap steam and cook the fries evenly. Double-fold the edges for a perfect seal.
- Customize Heat Level: Adjust jalapeño quantities to suit your spice tolerance, or use mild green chiles for a less spicy version.
- Prevent Soggy Fries: For extra crispiness, you can briefly pre-bake the frozen fries for 5-10 minutes before adding chili and cheese.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with fresh chopped green onions, sour cream, or cilantro for added freshness and flavor complexity.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare these packets in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve – perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 390kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 50mg
