Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

Introduction

If you love the crispy, seasoned fries from Taco Bell, you’ll enjoy making these Nacho Fries at home. They’re perfectly crunchy and coated with a flavorful spice blend, served with a creamy cheese sauce that’s easy to whip up.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries
• Vegetable Oil for Frying
• 2 Tbsp Paprika
• 2 tsp Salt
• 2 tsp Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional)
• 16 slices American Cheese
• 1/4 cup Milk
• 1 Tbsp Liquid from the Jar of Jalapeño Slices

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, stir together paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to make the seasoning mix. Set it aside.
2. Step 2: Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan to a depth of about 3 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C).
3. Step 3: Fry the frozen fries in the hot oil for 6 to 8 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Step 4: While the fries cool slightly, prepare the cheese sauce.
5. Step 5: Tear the American cheese slices into smaller pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl along with the milk and jalapeño liquid.
6. Step 6: Microwave the mixture uncovered in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
7. Step 7: Place the fries in a large mixing bowl and toss them thoroughly with the seasoning blend to coat evenly.
8. Step 8: Serve the seasoned fries with the cheese sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy your homemade Taco Bell-style Nacho Fries!

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Use fresh jalapeño slices and their juice for a fresher flavor in the cheese sauce.
• To bake instead of fry, cook the fries according to package instructions, then toss with seasoning and serve with cheese sauce.
• Try adding chopped green onions or cilantro on top for a fresh garnish.

Storage

Store any leftover fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fries in a hot oven or air fryer to restore crispiness, and warm the cheese sauce gently in the microwave, stirring well before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different fries instead of Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fries?

Yes, any firm, frozen fries that hold up well to frying or baking will work. Just adjust cooking time as needed to get them crispy.

How do I make the cheese sauce smooth without clumps?

Microwave the cheese mixture in short bursts, stirring between each interval to ensure even melting and prevent clumps. Using American cheese helps because it melts smoothly.

Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

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4.7 from 74 reviews

Enjoy a delicious copycat version of Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries with crispy seasoned fries paired with a creamy, spicy American cheese sauce. This recipe uses frozen crispy fries fried to perfection and a quick homemade cheese dip that mimics the iconic fast-food favorite.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Fries and Seasoning

• 1 lb Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries
• Vegetable Oil for Frying (enough to fill pan 3 inches deep)
• 2 Tbsp Paprika
• 2 tsp Salt
• 2 tsp Chili Powder
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional)

Cheese Sauce

• 16 slices American Cheese
• 1/4 cup Milk
• 1 Tbsp Liquid from the Jar of Jalapeño Slices

Instructions

1. Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir well and set aside.
2. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan to reach about 3 inches in depth and heat it to 350°F (175°C) for frying the fries.
3. Fry the Fries: Carefully add the frozen Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Fries into the hot oil and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the fries and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Prepare Cheese Sauce: While the fries are cooling, unwrap the American cheese slices and tear them into smaller pieces. Place the cheese pieces into a microwave-safe bowl along with milk and jalapeño liquid.
5. Melt Cheese Sauce: Microwave the cheese mixture uncovered in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and well combined.
6. Season the Fries: Transfer the cooled fries to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture over the fries and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly.
7. Serve: Plate the seasoned fries and serve with the warm cheese sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell Nacho Fries!

Notes

• You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount or omit it for less heat.
• Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for perfect crispiness.
• Do not overcrowd the oil while frying to ensure fries cook evenly and stay crispy.
• For a smoother cheese sauce, stir well between microwaving intervals.
• This recipe uses frozen fries to replicate the fast-food style texture.

Keywords: Taco Bell Nacho Fries, copycat recipe, crispy fries, cheese sauce, fast food fries, snack recipe