Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries are a fan-favorite snack that combines crispy fries with a spicy and cheesy twist. Inspired by the popular fast food chain’s famous offering, this recipe brings the restaurant’s flavors to your kitchen. Crispy fries are seasoned with a special blend of spices and served with a rich, creamy cheese sauce for dipping. Whether you’re hosting a game day or craving a fun snack, Taco Bell Nacho Fries will satisfy your taste buds with their perfect balance of spice and cheese.
Quick Facts
| Course | Snack/Side Dish |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Mexican-American |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4 |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Calories | 300-400 per serving |
Equipment Needed
To make these tasty nacho fries, you will need the following:
- Frying pan (or deep fryer if you prefer)
- Large bowl for mixing the seasoning
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula for turning fries
- Saucepan for preparing the cheese sauce
- Paper towels for draining excess oil
Ingredients
For the fries:
- 4 large potatoes (cut into fries)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt (to taste)
For the cheese sauce:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the fries:
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Cut them into thin, uniform fries. Soak them in cold water for about 15 minutes to remove excess starch, ensuring they’ll crisp up well when fried. - Season the fries:
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Once the fries are drained, pat them dry with a paper towel. Toss the fries in the seasoning mix until they’re evenly coated. - Fry the fries:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the fries in small batches, frying until golden and crispy (about 4-6 minutes). Once cooked, place the fries on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. - Make the cheese sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve and enjoy:
Plate the crispy fries and drizzle the warm cheese sauce over them. You can also serve extra cheese sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell Nacho Fries!
Note: If you want an extra kick, sprinkle some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce over the fries.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving Size | 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 22g (28% DV) |
| Saturated Fat | 5g (25% DV) |
| Cholesterol | 20mg (7% DV) |
| Sodium | 600mg (26% DV) |
| Carbohydrates | 35g (12% DV) |
| Fiber | 4g (14% DV) |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Vitamin A | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 15% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To make your nacho fries extra crispy, be sure to fry the potatoes in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps them cook evenly. If you’re short on time, you can also bake the fries at 425°F for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a more authentic Taco Bell flavor, add a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the fries after frying. If you want to make the cheese sauce spicier, stir in some diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce for an extra kick!
Conclusion
Making Taco Bell Nacho Fries at home is easier than you think, and the taste is just as satisfying as the original. With crispy fries, seasoned to perfection, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a snack or pairing it with a meal, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy these homemade nacho fries with your favorite toppings or simply indulge in the cheesy goodness on their own. Give this recipe a try today and bring the Taco Bell experience straight to your kitchen!
