Description
Louisiana Voodoo Fries are a delicious and indulgent snack featuring thick-cut russet potatoes steamed and baked to perfection, then topped with a spicy Cajun seasoning, creamy cheese sauce, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. This Southern-inspired recipe balances crispy fries with smooth, cheesy goodness and zesty flavors, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a comfort food treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Fries
- 6 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 3 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
Cheese Sauce and Toppings
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup creamy ranch dressing (plus extra for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the fries: Wash and scrub your potatoes thoroughly, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Peel the potatoes to remove the skin, then slice them into thick fries approximately 3/4 inch by 3 inches.
- Boil seasoned water: Fill a pot with 1 quart of water and season it with 3 tablespoons of salt. Bring the water to a simmer to prepare for steaming the fries.
- Steam the potatoes: Using a basket or colander, place the sliced potatoes above the simmering water, cover with a lid, and steam for about 10-12 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a knife; it should come out clean but the potatoes should not be fully cooked or mushy.
- Toss fries in olive oil: Transfer the steamed potatoes to a large bowl and drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Toss gently to coat each fry evenly with oil.
- Arrange fries for baking: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the potatoes to a nonstick baking sheet, spreading them out in a single, even layer to ensure crispiness during baking.
- Bake the fries: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Bake the fries for about 10 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet to promote even cooking. Continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes while watching carefully to avoid burning, until fries are golden and crispy.
- Make the cheese sauce: While fries bake, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour followed by 2/3 cup of milk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is creamy.
- Season the fries: Once baked, remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning over them. Toss well to evenly coat the fries with seasoning.
- Add toppings: Drizzle the fries with about 1/4 cup of creamy ranch dressing and spoon over approximately 1/4 cup of the cheese sauce. Reserve the remaining cheese sauce for dipping alongside the fries.
Notes
- For best results, use medium russet potatoes for their ideal texture and starch content.
- Steaming the fries before baking helps achieve a crispy exterior without drying out the inside.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- If you want extra crispy fries, you can broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover cheese sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently before using.
