If you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries, you know just how irresistible they are—crispy, seasoned fries served with a side of warm nacho cheese sauce. The good news? You can make this fast-food favorite at home! With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a plate of nacho fries that rival the original.
Why Are Nacho Fries So Popular?
What sets Taco Bell Nacho Fries apart is the bold, Mexican-inspired seasoning paired with the creamy nacho cheese dip. It’s the perfect combination of crispy and cheesy, making them a crowd-pleasing snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Nacho Fries Recipe
Here’s how to recreate this fast-food favorite at home.
Ingredients
For the Fries:
- 2 large russet potatoes, cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt, to taste
For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Fries
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss the cut potatoes in olive oil, then sprinkle with the paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Ensure the fries are evenly coated.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
2. Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken slightly.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, paprika, chili powder, and salt until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
3. Serve
- Transfer the baked fries to a serving plate and sprinkle with additional seasoning if desired. Serve hot with a side of warm nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Nacho Fries
- Air Fryer Option: For extra crispiness, cook the fries in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Cheese Sauce Shortcuts: Use store-bought nacho cheese for convenience, but homemade always tastes better.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili powder to control the heat level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This copycat recipe brings the flavors of Taco Bell Nacho Fries right to your table. It’s a fun and satisfying way to enjoy a fast-food classic at home with fresh ingredients and customizable spice levels. Whether you’re serving these as a snack, side dish, or party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Did You Try This Recipe?
Let me know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends who love Taco Bell. Follow me for more delicious, easy-to-make copycat recipes!
Taco Bell Nacho Fries: How to Recreate This Fan Favorite at Home
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 teaspoons paprika
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin strips to make fries.
- Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
- In a small bowl, mix together paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Drain the fries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the potatoes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Remove fries from the oil and drain on paper towels. While hot, sprinkle the spice mixture over the fries and toss to coat evenly.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth to create nacho cheese sauce.
- Serve the seasoned fries hot with the warm nacho cheese sauce on the side.
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