Crispy Bacon Cheddar Fries Made in the Air Fryer

Bacon cheddar fries made in the air fryer are an easy, crowd-pleasing snack or side. Crispy fries are layered with melted cheddar and crunchy bacon bits for a satisfying combination of salty and savory flavors.

These loaded cheddar fries are simple to make in the air fryer. Customize the toppings to suit your mood—add jalapeños, pico de gallo, seasoned ground beef, or a drizzle of nacho cheese for a nacho-style version. For easier cleanup, line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment to prevent melted cheese from sticking and burning.

Frozen fries are one of the easiest items to cook in an air fryer. I typically use 400°F for 12 minutes for many frozen foods, but this recipe uses slightly lower heat for the loaded version so the cheese melts without scorching.

Ingredients for Loaded French Fries

• Frozen french fries – Any variety works; crinkle cut or steak fries are both great.
• Cheddar cheese – Shredded cheddar melts well; substitute your favorite cheese if desired.
• Bacon – Use pre-cooked bacon, chopped. Microwave-ready bacon or leftover cooked bacon both work.
• Optional toppings – Chopped tomatoes, scallions or chives, sour cream, pico de gallo, taco-seasoned ground beef, or nacho cheese sauce.

See the recipe card below for exact amounts and nutrition information.

How to Make Air-Fried Bacon Cheddar Fries

Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Line the basket with aluminum foil or parchment for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Spread frozen fries in a single layer on the lined basket. Cook for 12 minutes.

Note: If your fries are unseasoned, toss them with salt, pepper, or your preferred seasoning before cooking.

Step 3: Open the basket and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar (or your preferred cheese) over the fries. Return to the air fryer and cook an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.

Finish by sprinkling the chopped cooked bacon over the melted cheese and garnish with chives or scallions. Serve immediately.

Best Air Fryer Tips

• Avoid overcrowding: Arrange fries in a single layer so hot air can circulate and everything crisp evenly.
• Use oil spray lightly: A quick mist of cooking spray helps fries crisp without adding much fat.
• Protect the basket: Lining the basket with foil or parchment simplifies cleanup when cheese melts.

Recipe FAQs

Other Air Fryer Recipes to Try

If you make these Air Fryer Bacon Cheddar Fries, I’d love to hear how they turned out—leave a star rating and a comment. Follow along on TikTok for more quick air fryer ideas.

Air Fryer Bacon Cheddar Fries