Description
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.
Ingredients
- 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.
Instructions
- Build the Chili Base:
- Place chopped onion and carrot in a 5-qt. slow cooker.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prepare the Fries:
- Bake or air-fry frozen French fries according to package directions until golden and crisp.
- Assemble:
- Pile fries onto plates.
- Spoon hot chili over fries.
- Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar.
- Add sour cream and jalapeños if desired.
