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Recreate the Outback’s Iconic Aussie Fries

I’ll never forget my first job at a local burger joint. The sizzling aroma of fries always filled the air, but it wasn’t until I tried a copycat version of Outback Steakhouse’s Aussie Fries that I truly understood the art of elevated fries. The crispy potatoes, blanketed in melted cheese and crispy bacon, were a revelation – a savory symphony that transformed humble fries into an unforgettable experience. Now, I’m excited to share a recipe that captures the magic of those Aussie Fries, allowing you to create this delicious treat at home.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Yield: 1-2 pounds of fries with cheese
Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

1 (2 lb) bag of frozen French fries
1 cup shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese (or “Taco Cheese”)
6 pieces bacon, cooked

Equipment Needed

Deep fryer or large skillet
Paper towels
Platter
Oven (optional, for keeping fries warm and melting cheese)

Instructions

Divide the frozen French fries into two batches. This ensures even cooking and prevents overcrowding the fryer. Reserve the other half for later.
Heat your cooking oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large skillet. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil’s temperature by carefully placing a single French fry into the oil.
Observe the fry: If it immediately begins to bubble vigorously, the oil is ready. If the French fry sinks to the bottom and barely bubbles, the oil is not hot enough. Wait a few more minutes for the oil to reach the correct temperature.
Fry the potatoes in small batches. Overcrowding the fryer will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy fries.
Cook until the French fries are golden brown and float to the top of the skillet, indicating they are cooked through. This should take approximately 3-5 minutes per batch, depending on the thickness of the fries and the oil temperature.
Remove the cooked French fries from the oil using a slotted spoon or fryer basket and place them on a platter lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
To maintain optimal temperature, you can keep the fried potatoes warm in a preheated oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F/95°C) while you finish frying the remaining French fries.
Once all the French fries are cooked and drained, arrange them on a serving platter.
Season the French fries with salt to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor.
Sprinkle the shredded Colby-Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the French fries.
Crumble the cooked bacon into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle them over the cheese-covered fries.
Place the platter of fries back into the warm oven until the cheese begins to melt and become gooey, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can broil the fries for a minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Oil Temperature is Key: Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is crucial for crispy fries. Use a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy.
Don’t Overcrowd: Frying in small batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping and ensures even cooking.
Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For ultra-crispy fries, fry them once at a lower temperature (325°F/160°C) until slightly softened, then fry them again at 350°F/175°C until golden brown.
Cheese Placement: Sprinkle the cheese while the fries are still hot so it melts easily.
Bacon Perfection: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven on a wire rack at 400°F (200°C) until it reaches your desired crispness.
Seasoning Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese before melting for a smoky flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Aussie Fries immediately while the cheese is melted and the bacon is crispy. They are best enjoyed hot and fresh.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the fries will lose some of their crispness. To reheat, spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is melted. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a crispier result. Reheating in the microwave is not recommended as it can make the fries soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	450 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	153 g	34%
Total Fat	17.1 g	26%
Saturated Fat	7.1 g	35%
Cholesterol	25.1 mg	8%
Sodium	997.4 mg	41%
Total Carbohydrate	61.4 g	20%
Dietary Fiber	5.9 g	23%
Sugars	0.7 g	2%
Protein	12.7 g	25%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free frozen French fries. Check the ingredient list carefully.
Vegetarian: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. You can add other toppings like chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or jalapenos.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the fries before adding the cheese and bacon.
Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the fries for a sweet and savory twist.
Loaded Fries: Add more toppings, such as chili, sour cream, guacamole, or pulled pork, for an even more indulgent experience.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen French fries?
A: Yes, you can use fresh potatoes, but you’ll need to cut them into fry shapes and soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch before frying.

Q: Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?
A: While baking will reduce the fat content, it won’t achieve the same crispy texture as frying. However, you can bake them at a high temperature (450°F/230°C) and toss them with a little oil for a crispier result.

Q: How can I prevent the fries from getting soggy?
A: Make sure the oil is hot enough and don’t overcrowd the fryer. Also, drain the fries thoroughly on paper towels after frying.

Q: Can I prepare the bacon ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just crumble it over the fries when you’re ready to assemble them.

Q: What kind of oil is best for frying?
A: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all good choices for frying because they have a high smoke point.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: a delicious, crowd-pleasing recipe for Outback Steakhouse Aussie Fries that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and seasonings to create your own signature version. Gather your friends and family, turn on some music, and enjoy this indulgent treat together. I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with, so please share your feedback and experiences in the comments below. Happy frying!

Outback Steakhouse Aussie Fries Recipe