Papas Locas (crazy fries)

Papas Locas, or crazy fries, are a hearty and savory dish that has become a favorite fry dish for many. Starting with a base of crispy fries, it’s topped with a variety of delicious and creamy toppings like cheese, creamy cheese, and saucy additions like spicy sauce, mild sauce, and salsa. You can customize the dish with spicy, savory, and juicy ingredients such as caramelized onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, and cooked bacon. The dish can also be made even more creamy by adding avocado or beans. This combination of flavors and textures is what makes it a comforting side dish or the perfect indulgence for when you’re craving something cozy.

Every time you make Papas Locas, you’re sure to love the crispy fries combined with the creamy and juicy toppings, all topped with cheese that melts to perfection. With toppings and sauces that make it uniquely your own, this dish is a great recipe for when you want something flavorful and customizable. Whether you adore cheese or prefer a spicy twist, Papas Locas can be tailored to make it your favorite comfort food. It holds a place in many people’s hearts for being both hearty and delicious.

What is Papas Locas?

Papas Locas is a fun and customizable dish made from crispy fries, topped with a variety of savory and flavor-packed ingredients like cheddar cheese, bacon, beans, and jalapeños. It’s a hearty dish that can be loaded with your favorite toppings and sauces, making it a unique and delicious meal or snackable treat. You can mix and match vegetables, melted cheese, and even cilantro to suit your personal taste, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Whether baked in the oven or served right on a plate, Papas Locas is a simple, hearty dish that brings a different spin to loaded fries, offering endless combinations of toppings for a meal that’s both fun and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes (or store-bought fries for convenience)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a rich and creamy melt)
• 1/2 cup salsa (for a tangy and spicy kick)
• 1 avocado, diced (for a creamy and fresh texture)
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional, for added heat and flavor)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, to add richness and balance)
• 1/2 cup cooked black beans (for a hearty and nutritious touch)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for freshness and brightness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying (or you can bake the fries for a healthier option)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• To prepare Papas Locas, you’ll need:
• Large frying pan (for frying the potatoes)
• Paper towels (to drain excess oil)
• Cutting board and knife (for chopping toppings)
• Baking sheet or oven-safe platter (for baking the fries)
• Oven (if baking the fries)

How to Make Papas Locas?

Step 1: 

Start by washing and peeling fresh potatoes. Cut them into thin strips or use frozen fries if you’re short on time. If you’re using fresh potatoes, soak them in water for 30 minutes to remove the excess starch, then drain and pat dry.

Step 2: 

Preheat your frying pan with vegetable oil over medium heat. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potato strips in batches, flipping occasionally until they’re golden and crispy. If baking, spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake until crispy.

Step 3: 

Once the fries are cooked, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: 

Top the crispy fries with shredded cheddar cheese and bake again until the cheese melts. Then, add salsa, diced avocado, pickled jalapeños, black beans, cilantro, and a creamy touch of sour cream for extra flavor and creaminess. Serve hot and enjoy the extra flavor with optional cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed bell peppers for added toppings.

Some Tips!

• Use homemade fries or thicker fries like steak fries or waffle fries for better crispy texture and to hold up better with toppings.
• For the best flavor, go for fresh melted cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese.
• Balance the dish with creamy elements like sour cream, fresh avocado, and homemade salsa.
• Add spicy jalapeños for heat, and use sour cream to balance the spicy flavors.
• If you want a less creamy dish, skip the sour cream and add melted cheese or a spicy sauce.
• You can also top with baked ham or chicken for extra protein.

How to Store Any Leftovers?

To store any leftovers of Papas Locas, place them in an airtight container and cover with a lid. Keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat them, bake the fries on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back that crispy texture. This method ensures your fries stay delicious and close to their original taste without losing too much flavor.

What to Eat with Papas Locas?

Papas Locas are perfect on their own, but pairing them with delicious sides can turn them into a full meal. A classic combo includes nachos and guacamole, bringing out that perfect mix of savory and creamy flavors. For a refreshing touch, serve with a black bean salad or some Mexican rice to complete the experience. If you’re looking for a sweet ending, try a slice of tea cheesecake. To drink, enjoy a cold glass of horchata or regular lemonade to balance the flavors and keep the meal exciting.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a drizzle of Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce to spice things up. And if you want to elevate your dipping sauces, a creamy Wingstop Blue Cheese pairs wonderfully with the crispy textures and bold tastes.

FAQs

What’s in a Papas Loca?

A Papas Loca is made with crispy french fries topped with pinto beans, flame-roasted corn, chicharrones, jalapeño peppers, fresh cilantro, queso fresco, Mexican crema, and a drizzle of tomatillo salsa for that extra spicy and savory kick.

Where Did Papas Locas Originate?

Papas Locas, or loaded fries, originated in the Canary Islands in the 1950s and are known as crazy potatoes. The dish features generous toppings and has since become popular across Latin America, especially in Peru. The Canarian version of papas locas is often made with varied toppings, making it a beloved dish in the region.

Can I Use Sweet Potatoes for Papas Locas?

Yes, sweet potatoes are a great idea to try for a different twist on Papas Locas, giving it a naturally sweet and savory flavor.

What Other Cheeses Can I Use?

Queso fresco works well, but you can also try Monterey Jack for a melty cheese that adds extra creaminess and flavor to your Papas Locas.

Conclusion

Papas Locas are a super delicious way to enjoy fries that are topped with many ingredients of your choice. The best part? You can make them at home, bringing those authentic Mexican flavors right into your kitchen. They’re easy to make, and you can customize them with your favorite toppings, making each batch unique. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or friends, they are always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and don’t forget to tell us how you liked them! The combination of crispy fries and the flavorful toppings will have everyone coming back for more. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings joy to any occasion.

Papas Locas (crazy fries)

Recipe by Emily HarperCourse: Appetizers, SidesCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Total time

30

minutes

Papas Locas is a fun, customizable dish of crispy fries loaded with savory toppings like cheese, bacon, beans, and jalapeños—perfect as a hearty meal or snack!

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes (or store-bought fries for convenience)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a rich and creamy melt)

• 1/2 cup salsa (for a tangy and spicy kick)

• 1 avocado, diced (for a creamy and fresh texture)

• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional, for added heat and flavor)

• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, to add richness and balance)

• 1/2 cup cooked black beans (for a hearty and nutritious touch)

• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for freshness and brightness)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Vegetable oil for frying (or you can bake the fries for a healthier option)

Directions

• Start by washing and peeling fresh potatoes. Cut them into thin strips or use frozen fries if you’re short on time. If you’re using fresh potatoes, soak them in water for 30 minutes to remove the excess starch, then drain and pat dry.
• Preheat your frying pan with vegetable oil over medium heat. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potato strips in batches, flipping occasionally until they’re golden and crispy. If baking, spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake until crispy.
• Once the fries are cooked, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Top the crispy fries with shredded cheddar cheese and bake again until the cheese melts. Then, add salsa, diced avocado, pickled jalapeños, black beans, cilantro, and a creamy touch of sour cream for extra flavor and creaminess. Serve hot and enjoy the extra flavor with optional cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed bell peppers for added toppings.

Notes

• Use homemade fries or thicker fries like steak fries or waffle fries for better crispy texture and to hold up better with toppings.
• For the best flavor, go for fresh melted cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese.
• Balance the dish with creamy elements like sour cream, fresh avocado, and homemade salsa.
• Add spicy jalapeños for heat, and use sour cream to balance the spicy flavors.
• If you want a less creamy dish, skip the sour cream and add melted cheese or a spicy sauce.
• You can also top with baked ham or chicken for extra protein.