Ingredients:

For the Fries:

4 large potatoes, cut into strips

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)

For the Chili:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup water or beef broth (adjust as needed)

For the Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup milk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

Chopped fresh cilantro

Sliced jalapeños

Diced tomatoes

Sour cream

Directions:

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Fries:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the potato strips with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden, turning them halfway through cooking.

Make the Chili:

While the fries are baking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and water or broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 20 minutes, or until thickened.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously, until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. Add the shredded cheese and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Mexican Chili Cheese Fries:

Once the fries are baked and crispy, arrange them on a serving platter. Spoon the chili over the fries, then pour the warm cheese sauce on top.

Add Toppings:

Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream.

Enjoy your homemade Mexican Chili Cheese Fries! This dish is perfect for sharing and can be customized with your favorite toppings or chili variations.