Description
Louisiana Voodoo Fries are crispy, golden fries topped with spicy Cajun seasoning, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. These loaded fries combine steamed then oven-baked russet potatoes for a perfect texture and bold flavors inspired by Louisiana Cajun cuisine, making a delicious appetizer or snack for gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- Medium russet potatoes, about 4 large (starchy potatoes work best for crisp edges)
Coating and Seasoning
- 2 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust heat to taste)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 ½ tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Additional
- ⅓ cup creamy ranch dressing, plus extra for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Dry them well with a towel, peel off the skin, and cut into thick fry shapes about ¾-inch wide for ideal texture.
- Steam Potatoes: Bring about 1 quart of water to a simmer in a pot and season generously with salt. Place the cut potatoes in a steamer basket set over the simmering water, cover with a lid, and steam until just tender when pierced with a fork, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Coat Potatoes: Transfer the steamed potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over them and gently toss to ensure all fries are evenly coated for crispiness during baking.
- Arrange and Bake: Spread the fries in a single layer on a nonstick or lined baking sheet. Place in a preheated oven at 450°F and bake for 10 minutes. Rotate the pan, then bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the fries look golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Make Cheese Sauce: While the fries are baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and gradually whisk in the warmed milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking until thickened, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Season Fries: Once the fries are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Immediately toss with the Cajun seasoning until all fries are well coated with the spicy flavoring.
- Assemble and Serve: Drizzle the seasoned fries with creamy ranch dressing. Spoon about ¼ cup of the warm cheddar cheese sauce over the fries, serving the remaining cheese sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy warm as a flavorful appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Use starchy russet potatoes for the best crispy texture after baking.
- Freshly shredding the cheddar cheese helps it melt smoothly in the sauce.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount based on preferred spice level.
- Steaming before baking softens the fries internally while allowing a crisp exterior after baking.
- Ranch dressing can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
- Keep cheese sauce warm while serving for the best creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Louisiana Cajun
Keywords: Louisiana Voodoo Fries, Cajun fries, loaded fries, cheesy fries, spicy fries, ranch dressing, appetizer, snack, baked fries
