CHEESE-CRUSTED FRIES RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack

• ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the potatoes:
   Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the potatoes if desired, then cut them into evenly sized fries about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Place the fries in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps achieve crispier fries.

2. Dry and season:
   Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Transfer them to a large bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.

3. Bake the fries:
   Spread the fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip the fries and return to the oven for another 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

4. Add the cheese:
   Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the cheddar, mozzarella (or Monterey Jack), and Parmesan evenly over the fries, making sure some cheese touches the pan around the fries.

5. Melt and crisp:
   Return the fries to the oven and bake for an additional 5–8 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. For extra crispiness, switch to the broiler for the final 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.