Vegan Chili Cheese Fries
Crispy fries topped with hearty chili and creamy vegan cheese, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
For the Fries
- 1 bag French fries Frozen, for best results
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing
For the Chili
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness and aroma
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
- 1 medium carrot, diced Adds sweetness
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped Provides sweetness and color
- 1 medium fresh chili pepper, chopped Adjust according to heat preference
- 1 cup vegan meat alternative crumbles Mimics traditional chili meat
- 3 tablespoons chili powder Key spice for warmth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds earthy flavor
- 1 teaspoon oregano Enhances flavor
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds smokiness
- 1 teaspoon sea salt For seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes Forms the chili base
- 1 cup tomato sauce Adds richness
- 1 can red beans, drained and rinsed Adds heartiness
- 1 cup vegetable broth For depth
- 1 cup vegan cheddar cheese, shredded Melts beautifully
- Chopped scallions, cilantro, jalapeños, or vegan sour cream Optional garnishes
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread French fries evenly on a baking sheet and bake according to package directions for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Cooking the Chili
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, diced carrot, chopped red bell pepper, and fresh chili pepper; cook for another 5 minutes until tender.
- Mix in the vegan meat alternative crumbles and cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Add chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and sea salt; stir to combine.
- Mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, red beans, and vegetable broth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until thickened.
Assembly
- Once fries are crispy, transfer them to a cast-iron skillet or a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spoon chili evenly over the fries.
- Sprinkle vegan cheddar cheese generously on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
- Garnish with optional toppings like chopped scallions, cilantro, jalapeños, or vegan sour cream.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispy fries, consider using an air fryer. Adjust spice levels to your taste. You can customize toppings according to preferences.