Texas Chili Fries

Introduction: What happens when crispy fries meet hearty chili?

You get Texas Chili Fries—a comfort food classic with a bold Southern twist. This dish combines tender beef chili, melted cheddar cheese, and golden fries into a plate that’s smoky, spicy, and downright satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving an indulgent meal, these loaded fries deliver flavor in every bite.

Overview: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Texas Chili Fries are the perfect mix of crunchy, cheesy, and meaty. It’s like your favorite chili bowl and your go-to snack food had the ultimate food baby.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (slow cooker)
• Skill Level: Easy
• Perfect For: Game day, casual dinners, comfort food cravings

Essential Ingredients and Why They Matter

• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds depth and sweetness to the chili base.
• Carrot (1, finely chopped): Adds natural sweetness and body to the chili.
• Beef Stew Meat (2 lbs, ½-inch pieces): Hearty chunks of beef that get tender with slow cooking.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 tbsp, divided): Helps thicken the chili.
• Canola Oil (2 tbsp): Used for browning the beef.
• Mexican Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can): Adds bold tomato flavor with mild spice.
• Chili Seasoning Mix (1.25 oz envelope): Shortcut to classic chili flavor.
• Pinto Beans (15 oz can, rinsed and drained): Adds fiber, texture, and heartiness.
• Green Pepper (1, chopped): Bright, fresh contrast to the rich chili.
• Jalapeño Pepper (1, seeded and finely chopped): Brings a kick of heat.
• Frozen French-Fried Potatoes (2 packs, 32 oz each): The base for your chili mountain.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts over the hot chili for gooey perfection.
• Optional Toppings: Sour cream, sliced jalapeños—for extra heat and creaminess.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Build the Chili Base:
   • Place chopped onion and carrot in a 5-qt. slow cooker.
2. Brown the Beef:
   • Toss stew meat with 2 tablespoons of flour.
   • In a Dutch oven, heat canola oil over medium heat.
   • Brown beef in batches until deeply colored.
   • Transfer beef to slow cooker.
3. Mix the Sauce:
   • Drain the diced tomatoes, reserving the liquid.
   • In a bowl, whisk reserved tomato liquid with chili seasoning and remaining 1 tablespoon flour.
   • Pour over the beef in the slow cooker.
4. Add the Veggies and Beans:
   • Stir in the drained tomatoes, pinto beans, green pepper, and jalapeño.
   • Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours, or until meat is tender and sauce is thick.
5. Prepare the Fries:
   • Bake or air-fry frozen French fries according to package directions until golden and crisp.
6. Assemble:
   • Pile fries onto plates.
   • Spoon hot chili over fries.
   • Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar.
   • Add sour cream and jalapeños if desired.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

• Serve on a sheet pan or platter for a dramatic party presentation.
• Use oven-safe plates and broil briefly to melt cheese if needed.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Chili: Store separately in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
• Fries: Best made fresh, but leftover fries can be crisped in an oven or air fryer.
• Make-Ahead: Cook chili in advance and reheat while baking fries.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Use meatless crumbles or extra beans.
• Spicy Upgrade: Add chipotle peppers in adobo or use hot chili seasoning.
• Tex-Mex Style: Top with guacamole, salsa, or pickled red onions.
• Different Cheese: Try pepper jack or queso blanco for a twist.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mash-Up

Texas Chili Fries bring together everything we love about comfort food—crispy fries, bold chili, and gooey cheese—all in one bite. It’s fun to make, satisfying to eat, and a guaranteed hit whether you’re lounging on the couch or hosting friends.

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FAQs

1. Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat? Yes, brown it and reduce cooking time by 1–2 hours.

2. Are these fries spicy? Mild to medium. Adjust jalapeños and chili seasoning to taste.

3. Can I cook the chili on HIGH? Yes, for 3–4 hours, but low and slow is best for tenderness.

4. What fries work best? Thick-cut or steak fries hold up best under the chili.

5. Can I make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour and chili seasoning.

6. What sides go well? Cornbread, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.

7. Can I add cheese directly to the chili? Yes! Stir it in during the last 10 minutes.

8. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Microwave or stovetop for chili; crisp fries in oven or air fryer.

9. Can I use sweet potato fries? Definitely! They add a delicious sweet contrast.

10. How do I make it kid-friendly? Use mild chili mix and skip the jalapeños.