Gravy Fries (Poutine-Style)
I have learned the weekend dinners don’t have to be complicated. Sometimes bringing simplicity and flavor together is all that my family needs to get excited about something just a bit different. In our house weekends are pack with errands, homework, sports, and a good bit of the unknown. This creation is all about landing on the table without stress and something everyone’ll dig into.
This here is a recipe that leans on comforting, familiar ingredients (nothing that I can’t find without asking my wife) pulled together in a way that feels fresh and smart. I like to think that this gives everyone the sense of homemade cooking without the dreaded long preparation time. Grab your apron, enlist some willing helpers in the kitchen, and let’s get this dinner done!
Difficulty Level: easy
Ingredients
- 1 lb (16 oz) frozen French fries
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup fresh cheese curds (or mozzarella pearls as substitute)
- Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Spread frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through. Tip: For extra crispiness, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
- While fries bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden (this is a roux). Gradually pour in beef broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Taste and add salt if needed. Tip: If gravy thickens too much, add 1-2 tbsp water.
- Divide hot fries between plates. Scatter cheese curds evenly over the fries. Immediately ladle hot gravy over the top. Let sit 1-2 minutes to soften the cheese slightly. Serve immediately. Tip: Fresh cheese curds will soften but not fully melt—this is normal!