Preheat the oven according to the instructions on the package of frozen fries, usually 425°F.

Spread the frozen French fries in a single layer on a large baking sheet and bake until crisp and golden, following the package time, about 20 to 25 minutes, turning once halfway through.

While the fries bake, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and cook, stirring often, until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it into small crumbles, until browned and no pink remains, about 5 to 7 minutes.

If there is excess grease in the skillet, carefully spoon off most of it, leaving a thin coating in the pan.

Sprinkle the paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper over the beef mixture and stir well to coat evenly.

Let the seasoned beef simmer over medium low heat for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Reduce the heat to low, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the hot beef, and let it melt, stirring gently once or twice, until the cheese is fully melted and creamy, 1 to 2 minutes.

When the fries are crisp and golden, transfer them to a large serving platter or shallow baking dish.

Spoon the cheesy ground beef mixture evenly over the hot fries and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if using.

Serve immediately while the fries are crisp and the cheese is still melted.