Pizza Fries

Baked Pizza Fries are a delightful fusion of crispy fries and classic pizza flavors. This dish is perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a fun and cheesy treat. The combination of rich marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and savory pepperoni elevates ordinary french fries into an irresistible snack that everyone will love.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Fries
• For the Topping
• How to Make Pizza Fries
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Bake the Fries
• Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce
• Step 4: Cheese it Up
• Step 5: Final Bake
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Pizza Fries
• Dipping Sauces
• Toppings
• Drinks
• How to Perfect Pizza Fries
• Best Side Dishes for Pizza Fries
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Pizza Fries
• Reheating Pizza Fries
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Pizza Fries?
• Can I customize my Pizza Fries?
• How do I make homemade marinara sauce?
• Are Pizza Fries suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and simple steps, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and parmesan creates a melty, flavorful topping that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy these Pizza Fries as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course – they fit any meal!
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a unique twist.
• Perfect for Sharing: These fries are great for parties or gatherings where everyone can dig in together.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Pizza Fries quick and easy. Gather the essentials before you start your culinary adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Oven mitts
• Grater (if using block cheese)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking your fries evenly without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Grater: Ensures your cheeses melt beautifully by shredding them into fine pieces.

Ingredients

For the Fries

• 2 pounds french fries, frozen (store-bought) or homemade

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 16 slices pepperoni
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Pizza Fries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375F. Line a large baking sheet (9×13-inch) with parchment paper to prepare for baking your fries.

Step 2: Bake the Fries

Place frozen fries evenly in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. Bake until crispy and golden brown according to the package instructions, about 20 minutes. If making fries from scratch using freshly sliced potatoes, adjust the cook time to 35-40 minutes.

Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce

Remove the fries from the oven and spread an even layer of marinara sauce on top. Be generous – this is what gives your Pizza Fries that delicious flavor!

Step 4: Cheese it Up

Sprinkle both mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the marinara-covered fries. Top with pepperoni slices for that classic pizza taste.

Step 5: Final Bake

Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking until the cheese has melted and is bubbly, about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy immediately with extra marinara sauce or your favorite pizza dipping sauces on the side!

How to Serve Pizza Fries

Pizza Fries are a fun and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply indulging in a late-night snack, these cheesy delights can be served with an array of tasty options.

Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, marinara adds additional tomato flavor and moisture.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch provides a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy fries.
• Buffalo Sauce: For spice lovers, buffalo sauce offers a zesty kick that elevates each bite.
• Garlic Aioli: This rich sauce adds depth and a garlicky punch to your pizza fries.

Toppings

• Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil gives a burst of freshness and enhances the pizza flavor.
• Olives: Sliced black or green olives can introduce a briny flavor that complements the cheese.
• Jalapeños: For those who like it hot, sliced jalapeños add spice and crunch.

Drinks

• Soda: A fizzy drink pairs perfectly with the salty goodness of pizza fries.
• Beer: A light lager or ale can balance the richness of the dish.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, iced tea is refreshing alongside this cheesy treat.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Pizza Fries

To make your Pizza Fries truly unforgettable, consider these handy tips that will take your dish to the next level.

• Flavoring: Season your fries with Italian herbs like oregano or thyme before baking for extra flavor.
• Layering Cheese: Use both mozzarella and parmesan for different textures; mozzarella melts beautifully while parmesan gives a nice crust.
• Crispiness Is Key: Bake fries until golden brown before adding toppings to ensure they stay crispy underneath all that cheese.
• Quality Marinara: Opt for a high-quality marinara sauce or make your own for richer flavors.
• Experiment with Meats: Try adding other toppings like crumbled sausage or diced bell peppers for variety.
• Serve Hot: Enjoy them right out of the oven for the best experience; reheating can make them soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Fries

Pizza Fries can be complemented by several tasty side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing provides a fresh contrast to cheesy fries.
3. Mozzarella Sticks: Double down on cheese with crispy mozzarella sticks served alongside marinara sauce for dipping.
4. Buffalo Wings: Spicy wings bring heat and flavor that pairs well with the savory pizza fries.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs add an elegant touch to your meal.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the pizza fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pizza Fries can be a fun and rewarding experience, but common mistakes can lead to disappointment. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Skipping the Preheating: Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to ensure perfectly baked fries.

• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing too many fries on one sheet will cause them to steam instead of crisp. Bake in batches if necessary.

• Using Low-Quality Sauce: A bland marinara sauce can ruin the flavor of your Pizza Fries. Opt for a flavorful homemade or high-quality store-bought sauce.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each brand of frozen fries has different cooking times. Follow package instructions closely for the best results.

• Neglecting Cheese Variety: Only using mozzarella can make the dish one-dimensional. Mix in various cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a richer taste.

PIN THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Pizza Fries in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pizza Fries

• Freeze any extra Pizza Fries in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Pizza Fries

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), but expect softer fries.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Pizza Fries.

What are Pizza Fries?

Pizza Fries are a delicious fusion of crispy french fries topped with marinara sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. They make an irresistible appetizer!

Can I customize my Pizza Fries?

Yes! You can add toppings like olives, bell peppers, or even sausage based on your preference for an added twist.

How do I make homemade marinara sauce?

You can easily make marinara by simmering crushed tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, basil, and oregano for about 20 minutes.

Are Pizza Fries suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for quick snacks or meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Fries are not only cheesy and delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and sauces to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for gatherings or simply satisfying those late-night cravings!