Taco Bell Nacho Fries at Home

Crispy, seasoned fries paired with a creamy, zesty nacho cheese sauce just like the fast-food favorite, but even better made at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade Taco Bell Nacho Fries are the ultimate comfort food—crispy fries tossed in bold, flavorful seasoning and paired with a rich, creamy nacho cheese sauce. Whether you’re craving a snack or a fun side dish for Taco Night, these fries hit the spot. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this beloved fast-food favorite in the comfort of your kitchen. Plus, the nacho cheese sauce is completely customizable for extra spice or flavor!

Ingredients

For the Fries:

• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 pound frozen French fries
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño brine (from jarred jalapeños)
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder

Directions

Prepare the Fries:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, mix the paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the fries, tossing to coat.
5. Bake according to package instructions (usually 25-30 minutes) until crispy and golden brown.

Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
5. Mix in the pickled jalapeño brine and chili powder for extra flavor. Keep warm.

Assemble & Serve:

1. Remove the fries from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Serve with the warm nacho cheese sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Add Extra Spice: Stir in some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick!
• Cheese Combo: Try mixing different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack, to change the flavor of the sauce.
• Sweet & Spicy: Add a drizzle of honey over the fries for a sweet-spicy contrast to the cheese sauce.
• Loaded Fries: Top the fries with extras like chopped green onions, sour cream, or cooked ground beef for a more hearty version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat fries in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Warm the cheese sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to thin it out.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can cut fresh potatoes into fries, season them, and bake them at 450°F (230°C) for about 30-35 minutes until crispy.

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

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop with a little milk to thin it out before serving.

3. Can I make these fries in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the seasoned fries in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispiness.

4. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use any meltable cheese, such as mozzarella or Gouda, but cheddar gives the sauce its classic nacho flavor.

5. How can I make these fries vegan?

To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based cheese and butter alternative. You can also skip the sour cream topping and serve with vegan-friendly sides instead.

6. Can I freeze the fries?

While the fries themselves freeze well, it’s best to make the cheese sauce fresh. If you have leftover sauce, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

7. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting lumpy?

Be sure to whisk the milk in gradually and cook the sauce over low heat to prevent it from becoming too thick too quickly. Stir constantly while adding the cheese.

8. Can I make this a full meal?

Yes! Add some seasoned ground beef, grilled chicken, or sautéed vegetables to the fries for a more substantial dish.

9. Can I make the sauce spicier?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, extra jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to increase the heat in the cheese sauce.

10. How long will the cheese sauce stay fresh?

The cheese sauce will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, but it’s best served fresh for the creamiest texture.

Conclusion

Taco Bell Nacho Fries at home are the ultimate indulgence—crispy, flavorful fries topped with a creamy, zesty cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe brings the iconic fast-food favorite to your kitchen, and with simple ingredients, you can enjoy this irresistible snack any time you like. Whether as a side, snack, or loaded up with extras, these nacho fries are sure to become a new favorite!

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