Grilled Chili Cheese Fries Recipe
These Grilled Chili Cheese Fries are a high-protein, comfort food favorite made clean. Crisp potato or sweet potato wedges are grilled instead of deep-fried, then topped with lean turkey chili and melted cheese for a satisfying and macro-balanced treat. Ideal for weekend grilling, post-workout cravings, or healthy game day snacking, this recipe delivers bold flavor with zero guilt.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes or russet potatoes, cut into wedges
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 200 g lean ground turkey or chicken
- ½ cup canned kidney beans, rinsed
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped jalapeños (optional)
For the Fries
For the Chili
Toppings
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Toss potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place on a grill pan or foil-lined tray.
- Step 2: Grill wedges 15 – 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy outside and tender inside.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Step 4: Add ground turkey. Cook 5 – 6 minutes, breaking it up, until browned.
- Step 5: Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beans, cumin, and chili powder. Simmer 8 – 10 minutes until thick. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 6: Transfer fries to a heat-safe dish. Top with hot chili and sprinkle cheese.
- Step 7: Return to grill (or broiler) 2 – 3 minutes until cheese melts. Garnish with green onions and jalapeños. Serve immediately.
Notes
- These fries balance carbs and protein, perfect for post-workout recovery.
- Sweet potatoes add extra fiber and antioxidants.
- Swap in lentils or meatless crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Use a cast-iron skillet or grill tray to keep wedges from falling through grates.
- Top with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fries?
Yes, grill them on a tray to avoid burning. Adjust cook time per package directions.
What protein can I use besides turkey?
Ground chicken, lean beef, or meatless crumbles all work well.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely—use plant-based ground meat or extra beans in place of turkey.
How do I keep the fries crispy?
Avoid overcrowding the grill tray and flip wedges for even browning.
Is this meal prep friendly?
Yes—prep chili and fries ahead. Reheat and assemble just before serving for best texture.