If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave-worthy snacks, Taco Bell Nacho Fries are about to become your new obsession! These seasoned fries are crispy, golden, and loaded with irresistible spices, served alongside a rich, cheesy dipping sauce. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even the main event—this recipe lets you recreate the fast-food favorite right at home!
Why You’ll Love These Nacho Fries
- Perfectly Seasoned: A blend of spices gives the fries that signature bold flavor.
- Crispy & Golden: Oven-baked or fried to perfection, these fries deliver crunch with every bite.
- Cheesy Goodness: The creamy nacho cheese sauce takes it over the top!
- Simple & Fun: Easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients for Taco Bell Nacho Fries
For the Fries:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ 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
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or frying pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Saucepan for the cheese sauce
- Whisk
- Spatula
How to Make Taco Bell Nacho Fries
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with olive oil, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt. Make sure the fries are evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Fries
- For Baking: Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
- For Frying: Deep fry the fries in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a smooth paste (roux).
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Serve
- Pile the hot fries onto a plate or serving tray.
- Serve with the warm nacho cheese sauce on the side for dipping—or drizzle it right on top for extra indulgence!
Serving Suggestions
- Add toppings like sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, or crumbled ground beef to turn this snack into a loaded nacho fries platter.
- Pair with your favorite burritos or tacos for the ultimate Taco Bell-inspired meal.
Tips for the Best Nacho Fries
- Even Slicing: Cut the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Extra Crispy Fries: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning.
- Cheese Sauce Hack: Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
Storage Instructions
- Fries: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Cheese Sauce: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk to thin it out if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?
A: Absolutely! Simply season the frozen fries with the spice blend and cook according to package instructions.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes! Use a plant-based butter and milk for the cheese sauce, along with vegan cheddar. Opt for an oil spray instead of butter for seasoning the fries.
Q3: Can I air-fry the fries?
A: Definitely! Toss the fries with the spice blend and cook in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Snack!
Homemade Taco Bell Nacho Fries are a fun, flavorful treat that’s just as satisfying as the fast-food version—maybe even better! Whether you’re snacking solo or serving them at your next party, these fries are sure to be a hit. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your creations—we’d love to see how yours turn out!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 16g
Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite of these delicious Nacho Fries!
Print
Taco Bell Nacho Fries
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave-worthy snacks, Taco Bell Nacho Fries are about to become your new obsession! These seasoned fries are crispy, golden, and loaded with irresistible spices, served alongside a rich, cheesy dipping sauce. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or even the main event—this recipe lets you recreate the fast-food favorite right at home!
Ingredients
For the Fries:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ 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
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with olive oil, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt. Make sure the fries are evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Fries
- For Baking: Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
- For Frying: Deep fry the fries in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a smooth paste (roux).
- Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Serve
- Pile the hot fries onto a plate or serving tray.
- Serve with the warm nacho cheese sauce on the side for dipping—or drizzle it right on top for extra indulgence!
Notes
- Even Slicing: Cut the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Extra Crispy Fries: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning.
- Cheese Sauce Hack: Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Mexican
