Baked Pizza Fries are a fun twist on traditional fries, combining the familiar taste of pizza with crispy potato goodness. This dish is perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Not only do these Pizza Fries deliver an explosion of cheesy flavor, but they also bring a delightful crunch that makes them irresistibly snackable!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up these Pizza Fries in under an hour.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of marinara sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni offers a unique flavor that pizza lovers crave.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will love this fun finger food that’s great for sharing.
Perfect for Dipping: Serve with extra marinara or your favorite dipping sauces for added enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious Pizza Fries, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Oven mitts
Spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even baking and easy handling of the fries.
Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup after cooking.

Ingredients

For the Fries

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

For the Toppings

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 your oven to 375F. Line a large baking sheet (9×13-inch) with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

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, which usually takes about 20 minutes. If you’re 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. Spread an even layer of marinara sauce on top of the hot fries.

Step 4: Top with Cheese and Pepperoni

Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the marinara-covered fries. Finally, lay out the pepperoni slices evenly on top.

Step 5: Finish Baking

Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking until the cheese has melted, which should take about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Consider serving with extra marinara sauce or your favorite pizza dipping sauces on the side for an even more enjoyable experience.

How to Serve Pizza Fries

Pizza Fries are not just delicious on their own; they can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Serving them creatively can elevate your appetizer game and impress your guests.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

Marinara Sauce: The classic choice that complements the pizza flavor perfectly.
Ranch Dressing: A creamy option that adds a tangy twist to every bite.
Garlic Aioli: For those who enjoy a rich and garlicky flavor, this sauce is a must-try.

Add Extra Toppings

Fresh Basil: Sprinkle some fresh basil leaves on top for an herby freshness.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like heat, a sprinkle of these will spice things up.
Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, add some jalapeño slices for extra flavor.

Create a Pizza Fries Platter

Buffalo Chicken: Toss buffalo chicken bites around the fries for a hearty addition.
Vegetable Medley: Serve alongside roasted vegetables for a healthier balance.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Pair with cheesy garlic bread for an indulgent feast.

How to Perfect Pizza Fries

To make your Pizza Fries truly stand out, consider these simple tips for perfection.

Cut of Fries: Using thicker-cut fries will give you more texture and hold up better under toppings.
Crispy Finish: Ensure fries are crispy before adding toppings; this prevents sogginess.
Layering Cheese: Add cheese in layers rather than all at once for even distribution and melty goodness.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on them in the oven to avoid overcooking, especially when melting cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Pizza Fries

Pizza Fries can be complemented with several side dishes that enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Caesar Salad: A classic salad that provides a refreshing crunch against the cheesy fries.
Mozzarella Sticks: Double down on cheese! These are always a crowd-pleaser and pair well with marinara.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms can add variety to your appetizer spread.
Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce alongside your pizza fries.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the richness of the fries.
Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings provide another layer of crunch and flavor to your meal.
Bruschetta: Fresh tomato bruschetta adds brightness and acidity that balances the heaviness of pizza fries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pizza Fries, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

Ignoring Cook Time: Make sure to follow the cooking times for the fries carefully. Overcooking can lead to burnt edges and an unpleasant texture.
Skipping the Sauce: Don’t forget to spread marinara sauce evenly over the fries. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Overloading on Cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can make your Pizza Fries greasy. Stick to the recommended amounts for the best results.
Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps achieve that crispy texture you want in your Pizza Fries.
Neglecting Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Skipping this step can make your dish look less appealing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Pizza Fries in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Pizza Fries

For freezing, place cooled Pizza Fries in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pizza Fries

Oven: Preheat your oven to 375F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but note that this may soften the fries.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pizza Fries:

Can I use homemade fries for Pizza Fries?

Yes, homemade fries can add a fresh touch! Just ensure they are cooked properly before adding toppings.

What type of cheese is best for Pizza Fries?

Mozzarella and Parmesan work great together, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar.

How do I make my Pizza Fries spicier?

Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick!

Can I customize my Pizza Fries?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or even different meats according to your taste.

How long do Pizza Fries last in the fridge?

Pizza Fries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if kept in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Fries are not only a fun twist on traditional fries but also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a fun family meal, these cheesy delights are sure to impress everyone at the table. Give them a try today!

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Baked Pizza Fries

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Author: Amanda
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves about 4 people 1x

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Description

Baked Pizza Fries are a delicious and playful twist on traditional fries, combining the irresistible flavors of pizza with crispy potato goodness. Perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or a quick weeknight meal, these cheesy fries topped with marinara sauce and pepperoni deliver an explosion of flavor that’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike. With minimal prep time and endless customization options, they’re not just a snack—they’re a crowd-pleasing sensation! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds frozen french fries
1/2 cup marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
16 slices of pepperoni
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread the frozen fries evenly on the baking sheet and bake according to package instructions (about 20 minutes), until golden brown. For homemade fries, bake for 35-40 minutes until crispy.
Remove from oven and spread marinara sauce over the hot fries.
Top with mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and pepperoni slices.
Return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian