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This recipe takes the beloved Big Mac flavors and turns them into a shareable loaded fries dish perfect for any casual gathering or family meal. Crispy golden fries are layered with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, tangy pickles, crisp lettuce, diced onions, and a creamy sauce that recalls the iconic Big Mac special sauce. It’s a fun way to enjoy the classic taste without the bun, bringing a new twist to comfort food that’s sure to impress.
I first made these fries for a game day snack and they disappeared faster than I expected. The combination of crunchy fries and all the Big Mac fixings is surprisingly addictive and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Frozen French fries: choose a high-quality brand for the best crispiness
- Ground beef: provides rich meaty flavor and protein leaner options work well too
- Garlic powder: adds subtle depth to the seasoning
- Onion powder: enhances savory notes in the beef
- Salt and pepper: essential for balancing flavors adjust to taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese: melts beautifully adding creamy richness
- Diced onions: offer a fresh sharp bite and texture contrast
- Sliced dill pickles: bring tang and crunch reminiscent of the original burger
- Shredded iceberg lettuce: adds crispness and freshness to lighten the dish
- Thousand Island dressing or Big Mac sauce: ties all the flavors together with creamy tang
- Sesame seeds (optional): for garnish and a nod to the classic sesame seed bun
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Ground Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart using a spatula. Sprinkle with garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Cook the Fries:
- Prepare the frozen fries according to package instructions either baking or air frying until they are golden and crispy. This creates the perfect base for the toppings.
- Melt the Cheese on Fries:
- Place the cooked fries on a large serving plate or tray. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot fries. Return to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.
- Assemble the Loaded Fries:
- Remove the cheesy fries from the oven. Layer the cooked ground beef evenly on top. Scatter diced onions sliced dill pickles and shredded lettuce over the beef.
- Add the Sauce and Garnish:
- Drizzle Thousand Island dressing or your homemade Big Mac-style sauce generously over the toppings. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if using for an authentic touch. Serve immediately for best texture.
The shredded lettuce is my favorite ingredient because it cuts through the richness and adds a fresh crunch that balances every bite perfectly. I remember making this for a family movie night and the kids loved digging in with their hands making it a fun and casual meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to help restore some crispiness but expect the fries to soften a bit.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for different dietary needs. Use sweet potato fries or a low-carb fry substitute to change up the base. If you don’t like pickles try sliced jalapeños or olives instead.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to add freshness. A cold soda lemonade or a light beer complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Cultural Context
Loaded fries have grown popular in recent years across many casual dining menus. This Big Mac-inspired version taps into the widespread love for nostalgic fast-food flavors reinvented in shareable home-cooked dishes.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use homemade fries instead of frozen?
Yes, homemade fries work great. Just be sure to cook them until crispy for the best texture.
- → What’s in the Big Mac-style sauce?
It's typically a mix of mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish or pickle juice, and a dash of vinegar or paprika.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or seasoned lentils for a meatless version.
- → What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack, American, or mozzarella are good alternatives that melt well and complement the flavors.
- → How do I keep the fries from getting soggy?
Serve immediately and add the sauce just before serving. Also, make sure fries are crisped well beforehand.
- → Can I prep any ingredients in advance?
Yes, cook the beef and chop the toppings ahead. Store separately and assemble just before serving.