Step 1: Bake the Fries

1. Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the bag of frozen fries.
2. Spread the fries evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly and get crispy.
3. Bake according to package instructions, flipping halfway through if needed.

Beginner Tip: To achieve extra crispy fries, consider placing the baking sheet on the lowest oven rack. This allows the heat to circulate and crisp the bottom of the fries.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef

1. While the fries are baking, preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add 1–2 teaspoons of olive oil to the skillet.
3. Add the ground beef and break it into chunks using a spatula.
4. Sprinkle the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the meat.
5. Continue breaking the beef into smaller pieces and cook until no longer pink. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
6. Once fully cooked, cover the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.

Beginner Tip: If the beef releases excess grease, carefully drain it before covering the skillet. If using leaner ground meat, such as ground chicken, add a little extra oil to prevent it from drying out.

Step 3: Make the Special Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, honey, mustard, and hot sauce.
2. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the hot sauce.
4. Place in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Beginner Tip: This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also works as a great dip for fries or even as a burger topping.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about one minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly pour in about one-third of the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
4. Gradually add the remaining milk, continuing to whisk until smooth.
5. Add the mustard and mix well.
6. Reduce the heat to low and start adding the shredded cheese in small handfuls, stirring after each addition until melted.
7. Once the cheese sauce is smooth, remove it from heat. If needed, add a pinch of salt to taste.

Beginner Tip: If the cheese sauce thickens too much, add a splash of warm milk and stir to loosen it up.

Step 5: Assemble the Loaded Fries

1. Remove the fries from the oven and transfer them to a large serving dish or individual plates.
2. Drizzle the hot cheese sauce evenly over the fries.
3. Sprinkle the cooked ground beef on top.
4. Add the shredded lettuce, diced tomato, chopped pickles, and red onion.
5. Drizzle the special sauce over everything, using as much or as little as desired.
6. Serve immediately while warm.

Beginner Tip: For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to mimic a classic cheeseburger bun.