Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries bring a perfect balance of crispy, spiced fries with creamy, cheesy dip. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick to make at home in under 40 minutes. With customizable spice levels and variations, these nacho fries are perfect for any Tex-Mex craving.

Ingredients

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

For the Fries

• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 lb frozen French fries
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce

• 1 tbsp salted butter
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tbsp pickled jalapeño brine
• 1/4 tsp chili powder

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Spread frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. Mix seasoning (paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne) in a bowl, then toss fries to coat.
3. Bake fries for 25-30 minutes, until crispy.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour for 1 minute to make a roux.
5. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened (3-5 minutes). Stir in cheese and jalapeño brine, cook until smooth.
6. Serve fries with cheese sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Variations

• Loaded Nacho Fries: Add seasoned beef, chicken, or beans with guacamole, sour cream.
• Spicy Twist: Use pepper jack cheese and more cayenne.
• Healthier: Air fry or use baked fries, and opt for low-fat cheese.
• Vegan: Use plant-based cheese, butter, and dairy-free milk.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fries and sauce separately in airtight containers. Reheat fries in the oven or air fryer for best crispiness. Reheat sauce gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries?

Yes, slice and bake fresh potatoes for a homemade touch.

2. Can I prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store it in the fridge for up to a day and reheat gently.

3. Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with rice flour or cornstarch in the sauce.

4. Can I use a different cheese for the sauce?

Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend works well.

5. Can I make these fries spicier?

Add more cayenne or extra jalapeños for more heat.

6. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, with plant-based cheese and butter.

7. How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use air-fried fries, low-fat cheese, and reduce salt in the seasoning.

8. How do I store the leftovers?

Store fries and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

9. Can I use a different milk for the cheese sauce?

Yes, you can use any milk substitute like almond or oat milk.

10. What should I serve these fries with?

These nacho fries pair well with tacos, burritos, or a salad.

Conclusion

Taco Bell Nacho Fries bring all the bold flavors of a beloved fast-food snack right into your home kitchen. Perfectly spiced fries combined with creamy, cheesy sauce make a delectable treat for any occasion. Enjoy this customizable recipe with your favorite toppings!