You’ve heard of Louisiana Voodoo Fries, right? If not, it’s time to change that. These fries are a game-changer, loaded with Cajun seasoning, cheese sauce, and ranch dressing.
And I’m about to show you how to make them easily at home. Trust me, you’ll be craving them every game day, BBQ, or lazy weekend.
Key Takeaways
- Voodoo Fries mix Cajun seasoning, ranch, and cheese sauce on baked fries for a crazy good flavor combo.
- Steaming the fries first makes them crispy, and baking keeps them healthier than frying.
- They’re perfect for game day, and you can throw on extras like bacon, jalapeños, or chicken to make them even better.
Louisiana Voodoo Fries
Equipment
- 1 Colander
- 1 Large pot For Streaming
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Fries
- 4 Russet Potatoes Large
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil Store-Bought or Homemade
- 2 Tbsp Cajun Seasoning
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- 2 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup Milk
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese Shredded
For Topping
- ½ Cup Ranch Dressing Preferably Buttermilk Ranch
Optional Extras:
- Cooked bacon bits
- Sliced jalapeños
- Grilled chicken strips
Instructions
- Prepare The PotatoesPeel and slice the Russet potatoes into thick-cut fries. Place them in a colander and steam over boiling water for about 10 minutes until they are soft on the outside but firm inside.
- Bake The Fries:Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).Toss the steamed fries in olive oil and spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Make The Cheese Sauce:While the fries are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.Gradually add the milk while whisking, ensuring there are no lumps.Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, then add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
- Assemble The Fries:Once the fries are done, transfer them to a serving plate and sprinkle them with Cajun seasoning.Drizzle ranch dressing and cheese sauce generously over the fries.Add any optional toppings you prefer, such as bacon bits, jalapeños, or chicken strips.Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.
Video
Notes
- Crispy Fries: Steaming the potatoes first helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when baking.
- Balance the Sauces: Don’t go overboard with the cheese sauce and ranch – too much can make the fries soggy.
- Extra Heat: For an added kick, sprinkle more Cajun seasoning or drizzle hot sauce on top.
What To Serve With Voodoo Fries?
These fries are a star on their own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, they go great with:
- Grilled wings
- BBQ pork sandwiches
- Burgers
- Philly cheesesteaks
The Story Behind Louisiana Voodoo Fries
Drawing from Louisiana’s culinary history, the Cajun spices bring a taste of home cooking, fused with comfort food. Originating from French and African influences, Cajun cuisine involves earthy, flavorful spices like paprika, garlic, and cayenne.
Fries were the perfect canvas for such intense flavors, which explains how Voodoo Fries became a hit at Wingstop. What started as a regional favorite quickly spread across the country as people fell in love with these loaded fries.
While Wingstop gets credit for making them mainstream, the combination of fries, Cajun seasoning, cheese, and ranch is something you can find in Southern kitchens everywhere. It’s not just fast food—it’s a way to enjoy flavors that have been passed down for generations.
Variations of Louisiana Voodoo Fries
Everyone likes to add their own twist to a recipe. You can customize these fries to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas to make them unique:
- Spicy Voodoo Fries: Add more cayenne or sprinkle jalapeños on top for some extra heat. You can also stir a bit of hot sauce into the cheese sauce if you like things fiery.
- Loaded Voodoo Fries: For a heartier version, add toppings like crumbled bacon, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. The protein boost turns these fries into a meal.
- Vegetarian Voodoo Fries: Want to keep it meat-free? Load the fries up with diced avocado, grilled veggies, or even black beans for a satisfying, plant-based option.
- Cheesy Overload: Use multiple types of cheese for an even richer experience. Mixing sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda can bring another layer of flavor.
Baking vs. Frying: What’s Better?
You might wonder if baking the fries will give you the same crispy result as frying. Here’s the good news: with the right technique, baked fries can be just as crispy and satisfying. The trick? Steaming the potatoes before baking them. This step softens the outer layer, allowing them to crisp up beautifully in the oven without drying out.
While frying gives you instant crunch, baking keeps things healthier, cutting down on grease and calories. Plus, it’s easier to clean up after baking. No oil splatters everywhere!
Make Your Own Cajun Seasoning
Store-bought Cajun seasoning works fine, but there’s something satisfying about making your own blend. Plus, you can tweak the ingredients to match your taste.
Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Mix these together, and you’ve got yourself a versatile seasoning that’s perfect not just for fries but also for chicken, shrimp, or veggies.
How To Store and Reheat Voodoo Fries?
Fries are best enjoyed fresh, but sometimes leftovers happen. If you find yourself with extra fries, here’s how to keep them crispy:
- Storing: Place the fries in an airtight container. If the sauce is already on the fries, you’ll need to reheat them carefully to avoid sogginess.
- Reheating: Preheat your oven to 380°F. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Heat for 10-15 minutes, checking to make sure they don’t overcook. Avoid the microwave—it will make the fries soft and soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fries instead of homemade?
Yes, you can use frozen fries to save time. Just bake them according to the package instructions and proceed with the recipe. While homemade fries are delicious, frozen ones still get the job done.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the cheese sauce with a plant-based alternative. Many brands make dairy-free cheese, or you can make a cheese-like sauce using nutritional yeast, cashews, and almond milk.
Here you can read more about BBQ sauces.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own using spices you likely have in your pantry. See the Cajun seasoning recipe above for details.
How spicy are these fries?
The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use and how much you sprinkle on. If you prefer mild heat, go easy on the cayenne and paprika.
Final Thoughts
Louisiana Voodoo Fries are simple, but they’ll impress anyone you serve. Whether you’re making them for a game-day snack or a weekend meal, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. Give it a try, and you’ll see why they’re worth the hype.