Skyline Fries from Skyline Chili feature crispy golden fries topped with savory Cincinnati chili, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped onions, delivering a flavorful blend of spicy, cheesy, and crunchy elements in every bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Fry basket
- Tongs
- Baking sheet or tray
- Ladle
- Saucepan
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese)
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Serving plates or bowls
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) frozen crinkle-cut fries
- 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups Cincinnati-style chili
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small yellow onion
Ensure your frozen crinkle-cut fries are completely thawed before frying to achieve a crispier texture. Use a high-quality Cincinnati-style chili to capture the authentic savory and slightly spicy flavor essential for this dish. Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts better and provides a richer taste compared to pre-shredded alternatives. Finely chopped yellow onions add a sharp contrast that balances the cheesy and chili components perfectly. You can recreate the iconic Skyline Fries from Skyline Chili at home and enjoy this classic Cincinnati treat any time.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel and finely chop the yellow onion on a cutting board using a chef’s knife.
- If needed, shred cheddar cheese with cheese grater and set aside.
- Place the frozen crinkle-cut fries into the fry basket.
- Lower the fry basket into the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes, or until fries are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove fries with tongs and drain on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.
- Heat Cincinnati-style chili in a saucepan over medium heat until hot.
- Arrange hot fries on serving plates or bowls.
- Ladle hot Cincinnati chili evenly over the fries.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili-topped fries.
- Scatter chopped onions over the cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Skyline Fries from Skyline Chili copycat menu offers a delicious way to recreate the iconic dish at home using crispy crinkle-cut fries, generous Cincinnati-style chili, sharp shredded cheddar cheese, and finely chopped onions. If you don't have Cincinnati chili on hand, you can substitute with a homemade chili seasoned with cinnamon, cocoa powder, and chili spices to approximate the unique flavor profile. Frozen crinkle-cut fries work best for texture, but you can also use freshly cut potatoes as a fresh alternative. When shredding cheese, pre-shredded cheddar can save time, though freshly grated cheese melts more evenly. You can bake the fries instead of deep-frying if you want a lighter version, but the deep fryer gives the signature crunch.
Tips
Ensure your vegetable oil reaches a consistent 350degF (175degC) before frying to achieve perfectly crispy and golden fries without absorbing excess oil. Use fresh, finely chopped onions to add a sharp contrast that complements the rich chili and cheddar cheese. Avoid overcrowding the fryer basket to maintain the oil temperature and promote even cooking. Your Skyline Fries are best served immediately to enjoy the ideal balance of crunchy fries, warm chili, melted cheese, and fresh onions.
Nutritions
Skyline Fries provide a hearty combination of carbohydrates from the crispy crinkle-cut fries and protein from the Cincinnati-style chili, complemented by calcium and fat from the shredded cheddar cheese. The dish also includes dietary fiber and vitamins from the small yellow onions, contributing to digestion and immune support. Be mindful that the deep-frying process and cheese add significant calories and saturated fats, which may impact your dietary goals if consumed frequently. Enjoy your Skyline Fries in moderation as a flavorful and satisfying meal option.
Storage
Store leftover Skyline Fries in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Reheat in an oven set at 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness in the fries and melt the cheddar cheese evenly. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the fries to become soggy and the chili to lose its desired texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the frozen crinkle-cut fries with fresh hand-cut potatoes for a more rustic texture and flavor. Swap shredded cheddar cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack to add a creamier, milder cheese profile. For a quicker cooking method, bake the fries on a baking sheet at 425degF (220degC) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure crispiness without deep frying. Adding jalapeno slices or hot sauce on top will give your Skyline Fries an extra kick to suit your spice preference.
Allergies
Skyline Fries contain common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and potential sensitivity to onions. The Cincinnati chili may also include spices or ingredients that trigger allergies, including gluten or soy, depending on the specific recipe used. Always check ingredient labels carefully to ensure your safety if you have allergies.
Why this recipe?
Skyline Fries from Skyline Chili restaurant are beloved for their unique combination of crispy fries topped with savory Skyline chili, melted cheddar cheese, and diced onions, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile. This signature dish blends traditional Cincinnati chili with comfort food, offering a hearty, indulgent experience that appeals to a wide range of taste preferences. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize the flavors and enjoy this iconic regional specialty anytime. Your taste buds will appreciate the authentic taste and comforting texture that make Skyline Fries a must-try dish.