8ounceswhite cheddar cheeseshredded on the large holes of a box grater (2 cups shredded)
Instructions
Preheat an oven or an air fryer to 400°F.
Arrange French fries in a single layer on a large rimmed baking sheet or in air fryer basket. Bake them in preheated oven according to the time shown on package, or according to air fryer instructions.
Place butter in a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat, cooking until melted and bubbly. Whisk in the flour to combine, then cook for about 2 minutes, until mixture is thick and pasty.
Gradually whisk in milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well in between additions to create a smooth sauce. Add salt, pepper, ranch powder, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder, then stir to combine.
Reduce burner heat to medium-low and continue cooking, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes, until the sauce is thick enough to cling to the back of a spoon.
Using a silicone spoon, gently stir in shredded cheese to combine. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes, until Cajun cheese sauce is thick and creamy. Remove from the heat and set aside until the French fries are ready.
When French fries are cooked through and golden brown, transfer them to a serving platter. Pour the Cajun ranch cheese sauce evenly over the them, then sprinkle remaining 1/4 teaspoon cayenne evenly over the top. Serve while warm.
Video
Notes
Rather than using pre-shredded cheese, we recommend buying an 8-ounce block. Shred it using the large holes of a box grater. Pre-shredded cheeses include an anti-caking agent that affects the consistency of the cheese, preventing it from melting well.
Storing Instructions:
Fries are not the best to store. You lose that crisp texture almost immediately — especially if the sauce has already been added.
However, if you do have leftovers you wish to reheat, do so in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes or air fryer for just 5 minutes at 350°F. If you have any leftover sauce, reheat them on the stove and pour over the reheated spuds.
If you have any leftover sauce, reheat it on the stove on low until it's heated through.
Make Ahead Insructions:
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. We do not recommend freezing, in consideration of all of the fat it contains.
To reheat, return to the stovetop and stir on medium-low until warmed through.