Copy Cat Outback Aussie Cheese Fries: A Surprising Flavored Nostalgia

Ever think about how the smell of crispy fries mingling with melted cheese and dustings of savory spices can trigger a flood of memories? It’s not just junk food, it’s a tiny slice of a shared experience. When I saw this recipe pop up, I realized I’d been craving those weirdly addictive cheese fries more than I’d admit.

I’ve always loved how the smell of warm, stretchy cheese pulls apart in that perfect cheesy stretch. But here’s the weird part — it’s not just the cheese. It’s the tang of that special seasoning dust, almost smoky, with a hint of garlic powder that sticks on your fingertips. This dish matters now because comfort food is having its moment again, and somehow, these greasy, cheesy bites hit the spot better than anything else right now.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)

• It’s simple enough for any weeknight, but feels totally indulgent.
• There’s a nostalgic rush every time you smell that cheesy garlic smell filling the kitchen.
• You get that satisfying crunch from the fries paired with molten cheese — a combo that’s hard to beat.
• It’s perfect for sharing or even just keeping all to yourself, no judgment.

Honestly, this recipe makes me feel like I’m sneaking a cheeky cheat meal without the guilt. Sometimes it’s just little bites of comfort in the chaos.

Cheese Fries with Savory Seasoning Dust

This dish features crispy fries topped with melted cheese and a fragrant seasoning dust. The fries are baked until golden and crunchy, then generously coated with gooey cheese and a smoky garlic seasoning, resulting in a flavorful, crunchy, and cheesy final appearance.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 4 large Russet potatoes for fries, cut into sticks
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for melting over fries
• 1 tablespoon olive oil to toss with fries
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika part of seasoning dust
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder adds savory aroma
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for a slight kick
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Medium saucepan
• Spatula

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly-sized fries, about 1/4 inch thick. Rinse the cut fries in cold water to remove excess starch, then dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
3. In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix until the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.
4. Arrange the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overlapping for maximum crispiness.
5. Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.
6. While the fries are baking, pour the shredded cheese into a medium saucepan and heat over low, stirring constantly until melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and transfer to a serving dish or keep on the baking sheet.
8. Pour the melted cheese generously over the hot fries, ensuring all pieces are covered with ooey-gooey cheese.
9. While the cheese is still warm and gooey, sprinkle the seasoning dust made from the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne over the top for an extra savory kick.
10. Serve the cheese fries immediately while hot and enjoy their crispy texture combined with melted cheese and flavorful seasoning.

And maybe I’ll keep tweaking this and see if I can make it even cheesier or spicier. Because really, that’s the fun part — turning a simple snack into something slightly more personal. Plus, the smell alone might make you forget about whatever crappy day you had.