Louisiana Voodoo Fries Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Fries

01 - 28 to 32 ounces frozen French fries
02 - 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
03 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
05 - 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon paprika
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 4 tablespoons ranch dressing, plus more for serving

→ For the Cheese Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 - 2/3 cup whole milk
13 - 2 cups medium cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

# Instructions:

01 - Set oven temperature following directions on French fry packaging. Line two baking sheets with foil and coat with nonstick cooking spray.
02 - Combine brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
03 - Arrange frozen fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle with the seasoning blend, reserving about 1/2 teaspoon for later use.
04 - Toss fries to coat evenly. Bake as directed on the package, rotating trays halfway through, until fries are golden and crisp.
05 - While fries bake, melt butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat.
06 - Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden.
07 - Gradually pour in the milk, whisking until mixture is smooth and blended.
08 - Simmer sauce gently until slightly thickened, then add shredded cheddar cheese in portions, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
09 - Keep cheese sauce warm over low heat. If the sauce thickens too much, stir in an additional splash of milk.
10 - Place one quarter of the fries on a plate. Spoon about 1/4 cup cheese sauce evenly over fries.
11 - Drizzle fries with 1 tablespoon ranch dressing and sprinkle a pinch of reserved seasoning on top.
12 - Repeat layering process with remaining fries, cheese sauce, and ranch dressing to create three additional servings.
13 - Serve hot with extra ranch dressing, cheese sauce, or ketchup on the side for dipping.

# Notes:

01 - For the best melt and texture, opt for freshly shredded medium cheddar. Do not use pre-shredded cheese.
02 - Avoid overloading each portion with cheese sauce to preserve fry crispness.
03 - Louisiana Voodoo Fries are best when enjoyed immediately; do not freeze after preparation.