Louisiana Voodoo Fries (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ French Fries

01 - 28-32 ounces frozen French fries
02 - 1 ½ teaspoons brown sugar
03 - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
04 - ¼ teaspoon onion powder
05 - ¼ teaspoon chili powder
06 - ¼ teaspoon paprika
07 - ¼ teaspoon salt
08 - ¼ teaspoon pepper
09 - 4 tablespoons ranch dressing, plus more for dipping

→ Cheese Sauce

10 - 2 tablespoons butter
11 - 2 tablespoons flour
12 - 2/3 cup milk
13 - 1 cup medium cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven as per package directions. Line 2 baking sheets with foil and spray with cooking spray. In a small bowl, combine all the seasonings except ranch dressing. Lay the fries on prepared baking sheets, dividing between the two trays. Sprinkle the seasoning over the fries, reserving ½ teaspoon for optional garnishing. Toss fries to coat evenly, then arrange in a single layer.
02 - Bake the seasoned fries according to package directions, rotating the pans in the oven if necessary.
03 - While the fries bake, melt butter in a medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add flour and whisk together, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in the milk until combined. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes to thicken, then gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, letting each portion melt fully before adding more. Reduce heat to the lowest setting to keep the sauce warm but not cooking further. Add a tablespoon or two of milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
04 - Place about ¼ of the fries on a plate. Top with approximately ¼ cup of cheese sauce. Drizzle with a tablespoon of ranch dressing, then sprinkle with reserved seasoning if desired. Repeat for all remaining fries.
05 - Serve immediately with additional cheese sauce, ketchup, and ranch dressing for dipping, if preferred.