Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Perfection: Achieve the signature Taco Bell crispiness with extra crispy frozen fries.

• Flavorful Seasoning: A blend of spices that mirrors the original’s bold taste.

• Creamy Cheese Sauce: A homemade nacho cheese sauce that complements the fries perfectly.

• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like sour cream or jalapeños.

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a snack or side dish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Fries:

• 1 lb Extra Crispy Frozen Fries

• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Seasoning Mixture:

• 2 tablespoons paprika

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 2 teaspoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon salted butter

• ½ cup whole milk

• 8 ounces American cheese (slices or block)

• 1 tablespoon jalapeño sauce or juice from jarred pickled jalapeños

Directions

1. Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

2. Heat the Oil: In a large saucepan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C).

3. Cook the Fries: Add the frozen fries to the hot oil and fry for 6–8 minutes until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

4. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add milk, American cheese, and jalapeño sauce. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Season the Fries: While the fries are still hot, toss them in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.

6. Serve: Place the seasoned fries on a plate and serve with the warm cheese sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Loaded Nacho Fries: Top with seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and guacamole.

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the fries.

• Cheese Blend: Mix cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for the sauce for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating:

  • Fries: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until crispy.

  • Cheese Sauce: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use regular frozen fries instead of extra crispy ones?

While you can use any frozen fries, extra crispy fries provide the desired texture and hold up better with the cheese sauce.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian. Ensure that the cheese sauce is made with vegetarian-friendly ingredients.

Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the fries according to the package instructions. However, frying them gives the best crispy texture.

How can I make the cheese sauce spicier?

Increase the amount of jalapeño sauce or add finely chopped fresh jalapeños to the cheese sauce.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?

You can use other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, but American cheese provides the smooth, creamy texture typical of nacho cheese sauce.

Are these fries gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the seasoning mix and cheese sauce ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

How do I prevent the seasoning from clumping on the fries?

Ensure the fries are hot when seasoning them, as this helps the spices adhere better.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

What can I use instead of jalapeño sauce?

You can use the juice from jarred pickled jalapeños or a mild hot sauce as a substitute.

How do I make these fries spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or include chopped fresh jalapeños in the cheese sauce.

Conclusion

Recreating Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries at home is simple and rewarding. With crispy fries seasoned to perfection and a creamy, spicy cheese sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a personalized twist.