Taco Bell Nacho Fries

If you’ve ever craved Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries but didn’t feel like leaving home, this recipe has you covered. Crispy, golden fries coated in a bold, smoky seasoning blend paired with a creamy, spicy nacho cheese sauce it’s everything you love about the fast-food favorite, made right in your own kitchen.

Whether it’s a game-day snack, a side dish for a Tex-Mex feast, or a late-night indulgence, these Taco Bell Nacho Fries will hit the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Spiced Fries: A smoky, slightly spicy blend of seasonings takes your fries to the next level.
• Creamy Nacho Cheese Sauce: Rich, velvety, and just the right amount of heat, this sauce is the ultimate dipping companion.
• Easy and Affordable: With simple ingredients, you can make a batch of these crave-worthy fries at home for a fraction of the cost.

Ingredients

For the Fries:

• 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds smoky flavor and vibrant color.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings mild heat and depth.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory kick.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic for a well-rounded seasoning.
• 1 pound frozen French fries: The base for this delicious dish.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love extra heat.

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon salted butter: The base for a rich, creamy roux.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce.
• 1 cup whole milk: Provides the creamy texture.
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: The star of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño brine: Adds tanginess and a hint of spice.
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder: Enhances the cheesy, spicy flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Fries

Let’s start with the foundation of this dish crispy, perfectly seasoned fries.

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Season the Fries:
   • Spread the frozen French fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
   • In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
   • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the fries, tossing them to ensure an even coating.
3. Bake the Fries:
   • Place the fries in the oven and bake according to the package instructions, typically 25-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.

2. Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce

While the fries are baking, it’s time to whip up the creamy, cheesy sauce.

1. Prepare the Roux:
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. This step helps thicken the sauce.
2. Add the Milk:
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to eliminate any lumps.
3. Cook Until Thickened:
   • Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the Cheese:
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
   • Continue stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Flavor the Sauce:
   • Stir in the pickled jalapeño brine and chili powder for a tangy, spicy kick.
   • Keep the sauce warm on low heat until ready to serve.

3. Assemble and Serve

Now that everything is ready, let’s bring it all together!

1. Remove the Fries:
   • Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly for a few minutes.
2. Serve:
   • Arrange the seasoned fries on a platter or in individual servings.
   • Serve with the warm nacho cheese sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle it generously over the fries.

Tips for Perfect Nacho Fries

1. Use Frozen Fries for Convenience

• Frozen fries are a quick and easy option, but if you prefer, you can make homemade fries from scratch using fresh potatoes.

2. Adjust the Spice Level

• Want it milder? Skip the cayenne pepper and reduce the chili powder.
• Love heat? Add extra cayenne or even a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce Ahead of Time

• The cheese sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk if it needs to loosen up.

Serving Suggestions

These Taco Bell Nacho Fries are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• As a Snack or Appetizer: Perfect for game day, movie nights, or casual get-togethers.
• As a Side Dish: Serve alongside burgers, tacos, or any Tex-Mex meal.
• Loaded Nacho Fries: Top with seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream for a fully loaded experience.

Variations to Try

1. Cheese Blend

• Swap out the sharp cheddar for a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby for a different flavor profile.

2. Spicy Ranch Dip

• Instead of the cheese sauce, serve the fries with a spicy ranch dip made from ranch dressing mixed with hot sauce or chipotle seasoning.

3. Vegan Version

• Use plant-based butter, flour, and milk to make a vegan roux, and swap the cheese for your favorite vegan cheese.

Storage and Reheating

1. Store Leftovers

• If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store the fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

2. Reheat the Fries

• Reheat the fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.

3. Reheat the Cheese Sauce

• Warm the cheese sauce over low heat, stirring frequently, and add a splash of milk if needed to thin it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Air Fryer for the Fries?

Absolutely! Air fry the fries at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.

2. Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes! This recipe is easily scalable to feed a crowd. Just double the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed.

3. What’s the Secret to Smooth Cheese Sauce?

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Final Thoughts: A Fast-Food Favorite at Home

These Taco Bell Nacho Fries are proof that you can recreate your favorite fast-food indulgence right in your own kitchen. Crispy, boldly seasoned fries and a rich, tangy nacho cheese sauce what more could you ask for?

So, grab those fries, whip up the sauce, and enjoy a little taste of Taco Bell magic at home.