Pizza Fries Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when your two biggest cravings collide, let me introduce you to PIZZA FRIES. We’re talking about golden, crispy fries layered with tangy marinara, oozy mozzarella, punchy pepperoni, and a fluttering of fresh parsley. This is the ultimate party snack, midnight treat, or just-because dinner. Each forkful is a cheesy, saucy, salty masterpiece—and you don’t need to be a culinary wizard to pull it off. Once you try these fries, you’ll never look at pizza or fries the same way again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

PIZZA FRIES are all about the magic that happens when you bring together just a few all-star ingredients. Each one brings its own special something, whether it’s crunch, creaminess, or that classic pizza flavor you love. Here’s what you’ll need, and why it matters:

• French fries (2 pounds, frozen or homemade): The crispy foundation that holds up all the toppings—store-bought fries save time, but homemade ones offer that extra love and crunch!
• Marinara sauce (1/2 cup): This rich, tomatoey layer is what transforms ordinary fries into a brilliant PIZZA FRIES experience.
• Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): The star of the cheese show—gooey, melty, and perfect for stretching between bites.
• Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): Adds a punch of sharp, nutty flavor with gorgeous golden color as it bakes.
• Pepperoni (16 slices): Hits every nostalgic pizza note; bake until crispy for maximum flavor.
• Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Lifts every bite with a pop of color and freshness—don’t skip this finishing touch!

How to Make PIZZA FRIES

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a large baking sheet (a 9×13-inch size works perfectly) with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step makes sure your fries won’t stick when it’s time to pile on those dreamy toppings.

Step 2: Bake the Fries

Spread the frozen fries in a single layer over your lined pan. Give them a bit of space so they can crisp up evenly. Bake according to the package instructions—usually around 20 minutes—until golden and delicious. If you’re using homemade fries, they’ll need extra time, about 35–40 minutes, to get that irresistible crunch.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheeses

Pull your fries out of the oven and immediately spoon on the marinara sauce, spreading it evenly. Pile on the shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan. No judgment if you add a little extra cheese—this is your PIZZA FRIES moment!

Step 4: Pepperoni Perfection

Arrange your pepperoni slices on top of all that luscious cheese. You want them peeking out from every bite, getting crisp around the edges as they bake. Trust me, they’re the secret to that classic pizzaria flavor.

Step 5: The Final Bake

Pop your loaded pan back into the oven for about 15 minutes. Watch for that glorious cheese pull and bubbling sauce, plus slightly crispy, curled-up pepperoni. When the cheese is melted and everything smells like a pizzeria, you’re ready!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Scatter over freshly chopped parsley just before serving. It adds a fresh, vibrant note to contrast all that melty, savory indulgence. Serve immediately for maximum melty goodness, and keep napkins handy—things might get deliciously messy!

How to Serve PIZZA FRIES

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a tiny pop of herbaceous flavor that lightens up the cheesy, salty layers. If you like, a pinch of crushed red pepper or an extra dusting of parmesan takes things into superstar territory.

Side Dishes

Balance out the rich, crave-worthy flavors of PIZZA FRIES with a fresh, crisp salad or a cup of extra marinara for dipping. A little coleslaw or a bright cucumber salad also pairs beautifully, making this snack into a true meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Pile your fries high on a wooden board for the ultimate shareable snack, or divide them into ramekins for individual portions—perfect for game day or movie night. For parties, try serving them in small paper cones with extra sauce on the side!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover PIZZA FRIES can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The fries might lose some of their initial crispiness, but they’re still absolutely satisfying the next day!

Freezing

It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled and cooked PIZZA FRIES since the fries can turn soggy upon thawing. Instead, freeze the separate, unassembled components: fries, cheese, sauce, and pepperoni. Store them in single layers in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months, then assemble and bake fresh whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat leftover fries in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes, until everything is bubbly and the fries regain some crispness. Avoid microwaving, which can lead to chewy cheese and limp fries—oven baking returns them to their former glory!

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella is classic for that glorious stretch, but feel free to add provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist on traditional PIZZA FRIES. Mixing in a variety of cheeses can really amp up the flavor.

What if I want to make it vegetarian?

Just leave off the pepperoni—or swap for your favorite veggie toppings. Sliced bell peppers, olives, mushrooms, or even spinach make delicious, meatless alternatives that are just as comforting as the original PIZZA FRIES.

How do I make homemade fries for this recipe?

Slice russet potatoes into even strips, soak them in cold water for half an hour, dry thoroughly, then toss with a bit of oil and bake at 400°F until golden and crisp—usually 35 to 40 minutes. Homemade fries make your PIZZA FRIES extra special!

Are PIZZA FRIES gluten free?

They can be! Just make sure the fries and marinara sauce you use are labeled gluten free. Most plain frozen fries are safe, but always check the packaging to be certain if you’re cooking for someone with celiac or gluten sensitivity.

Can I make PIZZA FRIES in the air fryer?

Yes! Start by air frying the fries until golden, then assemble and return them to the air fryer basket with the toppings for a few minutes, just until the cheese is perfectly melted. This method is quicker and makes your PIZZA FRIES extra crisp.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food mashup, PIZZA FRIES are your answer. They’re quick to throw together, endlessly versatile, and guaranteed to be the highlight of your next get-together or cozy night in. Go on—pile up a plate and see for yourself why this combination is pure joy!

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