- Preheat oven to 425 degrees or air fryer to 400 degrees. 
- Cut off ends of rutabaga, then slice into 4 quarters. Peel skin off the outside. 
- Cut quarters into smaller sections and then into sticks. 
- Toss in vegetable oil and sprinkle with sea salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika. 
- Cook in oven for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through (bake until crispy on the outside). - OR -Cook in air fryer for 15-20 minutes, tossing them frequently. Check to make sure they do not burn. 
- While the fries are finishing, make Cheesy Cheddar Sauce with 4 ounces of water. Microwave for 1 minute, stir, then heat for one more minute. Sauce will be hot. 
- Remove fries from air fryer and place on a large plate. Top with Cheesy Cheddar and a dash of black pepper. 
- Optional: Add slices of jalapeno peppers or banana pepper rings for some heat. 
- Step 3 ONLY: Sprinkle Bacon Bits on top.