Growing up, my family always gathered around the table for hearty meals, but it was the snacks that truly brought us together. One of my favorite memories is from a summer barbecue when my uncle whipped up his infamous loaded fries. They were crispy, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy. That’s why I can’t help but get excited about making Louisiana Voodoo Fries! This recipe is a delightful twist on those childhood favorites, blending the indulgence of loaded fries with a zesty kick that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a game night or just looking for a cozy snack to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite show, Louisiana Voodoo Fries are an absolute winner. They’re easy to whip up, and the combination of creamy cheese sauce with a hint of heat is simply irresistible. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making these mouthwatering fries that’ll have everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love "Louisiana Voodoo Fries"

Quick prep and cook time, ready in just 35 minutes!
Minimal ingredients, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
Customizable spice levels to suit everyone’s taste buds.
Leftover friendly—great for lunch the next day!
Vegetarian option that even meat-lovers will enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

26 ounces frozen French fries (or make homemade fries using your favorite recipe)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (for creaminess, but you can use 2% if that's what you have)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper if that's what you prefer)
2 teaspoons ranch seasoning powder (or adjust to taste—it's all about your flavor preference)
½ teaspoon cayenne powder (divided, because we don’t want to overdo it all at once)
8 ounces white cheddar cheese (shredded; feel free to use a block and shred it yourself for fresher flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Fries

Start by preparing the fries according to the package instructions if you're using frozen fries, or you can whip up a batch of homemade fries if you’re up for it! Just remember to get them crispy and golden, because nobody wants sad, soggy fries. Bake them on a tray lined with parchment paper for extra easy cleanup!

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Get that delicious buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen! Once it’s melted, add the flour and whisk for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux—this is where the magic begins. It should be bubbling a bit but don't let it brown too much!

Now, slowly add the milk while whisking continuously. This part is key; you want to avoid lumps like they’re a bad date! Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. It should take about 5 minutes of gentle cooking.

Once thickened, add the salt, white pepper, ranch seasoning, and half of the cayenne powder. This is where the flavor really kicks in. Stir it well and let it simmer for another minute or so. Finally, toss in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it's melted and smooth. If it looks too thick, don’t panic; you can always add a splash more milk to loosen it up!

Assemble the Dish

Once your fries are cooked to perfection, place them on a serving plate. This is the fun part—drizzle that luscious cheese sauce all over the fries like a warm hug! Don’t be shy; go for it! And for the final touch, sprinkle the remaining cayenne powder over the top to give it that gorgeous pop of color and a little extra kick. Now, step back and admire your creation before diving in!

Variations

For a spicy twist, add sliced jalapeños or diced green chilies on top.
Try using a blend of cheeses, like pepper jack and gouda, for a rich flavor.
Go gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Make it lighter by using a low-fat cheese or even a cheese alternative.
Add seasonal toppings like caramelized onions or roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Louisiana Voodoo Fries hot, drizzled with cheese sauce and garnished with fresh herbs or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Pair them with a side of ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. They’re perfect for game day or movie nights!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or use a microwave if you're in a hurry. For longer storage, freeze the cheese sauce separately from the fries for up to a month.

Helpful Notes

Feel free to add cooked crumbled bacon or diced chicken for a heartier option.
If you’re dairy-free, try using a plant-based cheese alternative.
For a creamier sauce, whisk in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Ranch seasoning can be homemade by mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder.
Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less cayenne depending on your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you freeze Louisiana Voodoo Fries?

Yes, you can freeze Louisiana Voodoo Fries! However, it’s best to freeze the cheese sauce separately from the fries. The fries can be frozen after cooking; just make sure they cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat the fries in the oven until crispy and warm up the cheese sauce on the stovetop or microwave.

How do I make Louisiana Voodoo Fries spicier?

To amp up the heat in your Louisiana Voodoo Fries, simply increase the amount of cayenne powder in the cheese sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños or sliced serrano peppers on top for an extra kick. If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating some hot sauce into the cheese sauce for a tangy and spicy flavor!

What can I substitute for white cheddar cheese?

If you don’t have white cheddar cheese on hand, don’t worry! You can substitute it with sharp cheddar for a similar taste or even try pepper jack for a spicy twist. Other great options include gouda or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses. Just ensure it’s a cheese that melts well for that gooey, cheesy goodness!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Louisiana Voodoo Fries is not just about making a tasty dish; it’s about the joy and excitement of sharing good food with friends and family. I hope you feel the same thrill as you whip up this delicious recipe, watching everyone’s faces light up with every cheesy bite. Whether it’s game day, movie night, or just a casual weeknight treat, these fries are sure to bring smiles all around. So roll up your sleeves, get in that kitchen, and make some unforgettable memories. Trust me, they’ll be gone before you know it!

Louisiana Voodoo Fries

Author: Emily Parker
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Louisiana Voodoo Fries are a delicious and spicy take on loaded fries, perfect for a snack or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

26 ounces frozen French fries (or homemade fries)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground white pepper (or black pepper)
2 teaspoons ranch seasoning powder (or more, to taste)
½ teaspoon cayenne powder (divided)
8 ounces white cheddar cheese (shredded)

Instructions

Prepare the fries according to package instructions or make homemade fries.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes.
Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
Add salt, white pepper, ranch seasoning, and half of the cayenne powder.
Continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Once the fries are cooked, place them on a serving plate.
Drizzle the cheese sauce over the fries.
Sprinkle the remaining cayenne powder over the top.

Notes

Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne and ranch seasoning.
For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños on top.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking and Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Louisiana Voodoo Fries, Wingstop Copycat, loaded fries, cheese fries