Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe
If you have ever craved that perfect balance of crispy, seasoned fries smothered in creamy, dreamy cheese sauce, you are going to fall head over heels for this Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe. This copycat delight captures the spirit of the fast-food favorite with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create fries that are golden and crispy on the outside, tender inside, and perfectly spiced. The luscious nacho cheese sauce pulls everything together for a dish that’s way better than takeout and practically made to share (or keep all to yourself, because we don’t judge). Whether you’re making a snack for game day or a casual dinner star, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite that feels indulgent yet homemade in the best way possible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe lies in the straightforward ingredients that each add their own special something — from the perfectly seasoned fries to the wonderfully creamy cheese sauce. Every component is essential for flavor, texture, and that irresistible look.
- 2 large russet potatoes: Ideal for fries due to their starchy interior and ability to crisp up beautifully after baking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the fries bake to golden perfection while adding a subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth to the seasoning mix.
- ½ teaspoon chili powder: Brings a gentle kick without overpowering the fries.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Lent subtle savory undertones that pair perfectly with the cheese.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides an aromatic hint that complements the spices.
- ¼ teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness to round out the spices beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: For a mild, spicy finish to the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons butter: The base for a creamy, luscious cheese sauce with great mouthfeel.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Creates the roux that thickens the cheese sauce perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk: Provides a rich and smooth texture for the sauce.
- 1 ¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, this is the star ingredient of the sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the cheese sauce flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or taco seasoning (optional): Adds a subtle spicy punch that makes the sauce exciting.
How to Make Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Fries
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, slice the russet potatoes into thin fries. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend is what takes these fries from basic to show-stopping. Make sure every fry is evenly coated in this flavorful mix.
Step 2: Bake to Golden Crispness
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the fries out in a single layer. Baking them in one layer ensures they crisp up instead of steaming. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through to make sure they brown evenly on all sides. The result? Fries that are perfectly crisp on the outside with a tender inside, just like Taco Bell’s beloved nacho fries.
Step 3: Prepare the Nacho Cheese Sauce
While your fries bake, start on that creamy cheese sauce that will elevate the dish. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in the flour until you get a smooth roux. Cook this for 1 to 2 minutes to get rid of any raw flour flavor. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and optional cayenne or taco seasoning until the sauce is silky, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned.
Step 4: Serve the Fries and Cheese
Once baked, transfer the fries to a serving dish and either pour the cheese sauce over them generously or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. This part is all about your preference, but honestly, you can’t go wrong either way!
How to Serve Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe
Garnishes
To take these nacho fries over the top, consider topping with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of diced green onions. Each adds a fresh or spicy pop of flavor and gives a colorful contrast that brightens the dish visually and taste-wise.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as the star of any casual meal, but pairing it with tangy coleslaw, a fresh garden salad, or even some zesty guacamole and salsa can bring balance and variety to your table.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or game day, serve your Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe in individual mini baskets or on small plates lined with parchment paper for that authentic fast-food vibe everyone loves. Alternatively, layer them in a casserole dish for a cheesy nacho fries bake that’s fun to share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover fries and cheese sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. Fries are best enjoyed within two days, as they can lose their crispness, but the cheese sauce will keep for up to three days without any issue.
Freezing
While the baked fries don’t freeze well since they tend to get soggy after thawing, the nacho cheese sauce freezes beautifully. Store the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Defrost it slowly in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove while stirring.
Reheating
To bring leftover fries back to life, reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until they regain some crispness. Warm the cheese sauce separately on low heat, stirring often to prevent it from breaking or becoming grainy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch for the roux when making the cheese sauce to keep this Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe gluten-free without sacrificing that creamy texture.
Can I bake the fries instead of frying?
Yes! The recipe is designed for oven baking to keep it simple and healthier while still getting that crisp, golden exterior that mimics the original Taco Bell experience.
What type of cheese is best for the sauce?
Sharp cheddar works best for its melty texture and bold flavor, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or a blend for a milder taste if preferred.
Can I prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time?
You can! Make the sauce a few hours ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and gently reheat it when ready to serve. Just whisk it well to bring back the smooth consistency.
Is it possible to air fry these fries?
Definitely! Air frying at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking halfway through, is a wonderful alternative that also results in crispy fries perfect for this nacho fries recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe is such a fantastic way to bring a fast-food favorite home without compromising on flavor or satisfaction. From the crispy, well-seasoned fries to the dreamily cheesy sauce, every bite is a celebration. Don’t hesitate to try it out — you might just find it’s your new go-to comfort food that’s perfect for sharing or indulging solo. Happy cooking and, of course, happy eating!
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Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe for Taco Bell Nacho Fries offers a delicious homemade version of the popular fast-food favorite. Crispy baked russet potato fries are seasoned with a blend of smoky and spicy spices and topped with a creamy, cheesy nacho sauce. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or snack, these fries combine the satisfying crunch of oven-baked potatoes with a rich, melty cheddar cheese sauce that’s easy to make from scratch.
Ingredients
Fries
- 2 large russet potatoes, cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Nacho Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or taco seasoning (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, toss the cut russet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until all fries are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Bake the Fries: Spread the seasoned fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through the cooking time to ensure they crisp and brown evenly on all sides.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: While the fries are baking, prepare the nacho cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Cheese: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and is smooth, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until thoroughly melted and creamy. Season with salt and cayenne pepper or taco seasoning if using.
- Serve: Once the fries are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a plate or serving dish. Pour the warm nacho cheese sauce over the fries or serve it on the side as a dip. Enjoy immediately for the best crispy-cheesy combination.
Notes
- For extra crispy fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch, then thoroughly dry them before seasoning.
- If preferred, you can cook the fries in an air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Substitute whole milk with any milk of choice, but whole milk offers the creamiest texture for the cheese sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
