If you’ve ever found yourself craving a batch of perfectly crisp, boldly seasoned fries smothered in creamy cheese sauce, then Taco Bell Nacho Fries are about to become your new at-home obsession. This iconic fast food favorite is surprisingly simple to make from scratch, right in your own kitchen! Golden-baked russet potatoes with layers of smoky spices, finished with a rich, melt-in-your-mouth nacho cheese sauce — these fries are made to share, but you’ll want to keep the whole plate just for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every great recipe starts with just a handful of reliable, flavor-packed ingredients. For Taco Bell Nacho Fries, each component plays a vital role, from the starchy potatoes to the spices and gooey cheeses. Let’s break down what makes these fries impossible to resist:
- Russet Potatoes: Their starchy texture turns delightfully fluffy inside and golden crisp outside — ideal for perfect fries.
- Olive Oil: Helps the spices cling to each fry and ensures even, golden roasting in the oven.
- Paprika: Delivers that signature orangey hue and smoky depth that makes every bite addictively good.
- Garlic Powder: Adds savory undertones, making the seasoning taste complex and irresistible.
- Onion Powder: Brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spices and cheese.
- Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For those who like their fries with a bold, spicy kick that lingers!
- Salt: Essential to lift all the flavors and make the fries sing.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The star of the nacho cheese sauce, for sharp, classic cheesy flavor.
- Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
- Whole Milk: Dials up the richness and makes the sauce velvety-smooth.
- Butter: The base for your creamy sauce — just a touch goes a long way.
- All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce to just the right consistency for drizzling.
- Ground Cumin: A subtle warmth that recreates that classic Taco Bell nacho flavor.
- Chili Powder: Brings gentle heat and beautiful color to the cheese sauce.
- Chopped Green Onions or Jalapeños (Optional): For a zesty, fresh finish and pop of color on top.
How to Make Taco Bell Nacho Fries
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes
Start by peeling your russet potatoes and slicing them into thin, fry-shaped strips. If you want extra-crispy fries (and who doesn’t?) soak them in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat them completely dry — this simple step draws out excess starch and helps achieve that crave-worthy crunch.
Step 2: Season and Toss
In a large mixing bowl, toss your fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne (if you like it spicy), and plenty of salt. Coat every fry thoroughly; this spice blend is what gives Taco Bell Nacho Fries their famous flavor.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Arrange your fries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop them in a preheated 425°F oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden and crisp on the outside, tender inside, and impossible not to sample straight from the tray.
Step 4: Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce
While the fries bake, get started on your irresistible nacho cheese sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a quick roux. Slowly pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens up. Lower the heat, then stir in your cheddar, Monterey Jack, cumin, and chili powder. Keep stirring until it’s all melted into a gloriously smooth, cheesy sauce.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Pile your hot, crispy fries onto a serving platter and pour the warm nacho cheese sauce liberally over the top. For a burst of freshness and an extra pop of heat, sprinkle with chopped green onions or jalapeños. Serve immediately while everything is hot and gooey — just like the real Taco Bell Nacho Fries.
How to Serve Taco Bell Nacho Fries
Garnishes
The finishing touch can take your Taco Bell Nacho Fries from snack to showstopper. Try a bright sprinkle of green onions for color and freshness or thinly sliced jalapeños for bold, spicy punch. Even a dusting of extra paprika makes every plate look (and taste!) stunning.
Side Dishes
These fries play well with a variety of sides. Think cool guacamole, chunky salsa, or a crisp garden salad to balance out the cheesy richness. They also work beautifully alongside your favorite Tex-Mex mains — tacos, burritos, or even loaded quesadillas for the ultimate feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready platter, serve your nacho fries in layers: fries, cheese sauce, repeat — like a cheesy fries lasagna! Or, try mini fry boats for an appetizer spread, each one loaded with toppings. For loaded Taco Bell Nacho Fries, add seasoned ground beef, black beans, or extra jalapeños.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Taco Bell Nacho Fries (though that’s pretty rare!), transfer them to an airtight container. Keep the fries and cheese sauce separate to prevent sogginess, and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze the baked fries. Cool them completely, then lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a resealable bag. Skip freezing the cheese sauce for best texture; dairy sauces don’t reheat as smoothly from frozen.
Reheating
To revive crispiness, bake the fries in a 425°F oven for 8–10 minutes or air-fry until hot. Gently reheat the cheese sauce on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen. Drizzle the warmed sauce over your fries, and they’ll taste as good as freshly made Taco Bell Nacho Fries.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Russets make the absolute best Taco Bell Nacho Fries thanks to their high starch and low moisture, but Yukon Golds are a good substitute for an extra creamy interior — just avoid waxy potatoes like reds.
How can I make these fries in an air fryer?
Absolutely! After tossing with oil and spices, air-fry the potatoes at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, shaking halfway through. They’ll come out crispy and golden every time.
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead?
Yes, you can make the sauce up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring often and adding a splash of milk if it gets too thick.
What toppings can I add for loaded nacho fries?
Get creative: seasoned ground beef or turkey, black beans, pico de gallo, sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or even a scoop of guacamole will take your Taco Bell Nacho Fries over the top.
Are Taco Bell Nacho Fries vegetarian?
The homemade version is completely vegetarian as written! Just double-check any cheese you use for veggie-friendly rennet if you’re strict about it.
Final Thoughts
There’s seriously nothing like sharing a fresh, cheesy platter of Taco Bell Nacho Fries made right at home. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a fast-food favorite without leaving the house, these fries will win over every single snack-lover at your table. Give them a try and get ready to fall in love with every crispy, cheesy bite!
Print
Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Taco Bell Nacho Fries are a delicious homemade version of the classic fast-food favorite. Crispy seasoned fries topped with a gooey, flavorful nacho cheese sauce, these are perfect for a fun snack or side dish.
Ingredients
Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt to taste
Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or jalapeños for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Fries: Toss the cut fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and salt. Bake for 25–30 minutes until crispy.
- Make Cheese Sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add milk. Stir in cheeses, cumin, and chili powder until smooth.
- Assemble: Drizzle the warm cheese sauce over the baked fries. Garnish with green onions or jalapeños.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak the cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking.
- You can also air-fry or deep-fry the fries for a different texture.
- Try adding seasoned ground beef for a loaded nacho fries experience.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *