Why You’ll Love Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe
This homemade version of Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries brings all the crave-worthy flavor of the original right into your kitchen. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate the iconic taste, complete with the zesty seasoning blend and that smooth, cheesy dip. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these fries are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Russet potatoes
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Paprika
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Chili powder
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Cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
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Salt
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All-purpose flour (for dusting, optional for extra crisp)
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Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the nacho cheese sauce:
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Cheddar cheese
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Whole milk
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Butter
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All-purpose flour
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Jalapeño juice (optional for extra flavor)
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Salt
Directions
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Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into thin fries.
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Soak the fries in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry.
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In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne (if using), and salt.
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Toss the fries with a light dusting of flour, then coat with the seasoning blend.
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Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pan to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
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To make the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to make a roux, then slowly whisk in milk.
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Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Add jalapeño juice and salt to taste.
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Serve the hot fries immediately with the warm nacho cheese sauce on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Additional soaking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
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Baked Version: For a healthier take, bake the seasoned fries at 425°F for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Air Fryer Method: Cook the seasoned fries in an air fryer at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.
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Loaded Nacho Fries: Add cooked ground beef, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and green onions on top.
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Spicy Cheese Sauce: Stir in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the cheese dip.
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Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Store the cheese sauce separately in a microwave-safe container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring frequently until smooth.
FAQs
How do I get the fries extra crispy?
Soaking the fries in cold water and patting them dry removes starch, which helps them crisp up. Lightly coating with flour also adds to the crunch.
Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, you can use frozen fries. Just cook them according to package instructions and toss them in the seasoning mix while hot.
Is the nacho cheese sauce spicy?
It has a mild kick from the jalapeño juice, but you can adjust the spice level by adding or omitting it.
Can I make the fries ahead of time?
It’s best to serve them fresh, but you can cut and soak the fries ahead of time. Keep them in the fridge in water until ready to fry.
What kind of cheese is best for the nacho sauce?
Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor and melt consistency, but you can mix in some Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend for the cheese sauce and skip the flour coating on the fries.
Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well, though they will have a slightly different flavor and texture.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all great choices due to their high smoke points.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just fry the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding and lowering the oil temperature.
How do I store the cheese sauce?
Let it cool completely, then store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Reheat slowly to maintain the smooth texture.
Conclusion
Making Taco Bell Nacho Fries at home is easier than you think and delivers the same addictive taste as the original. With crispy, seasoned fries and a luscious cheese dip, this recipe satisfies every time. Whether served as a snack, party food, or indulgent side, these fries are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Taco Bell Nacho Fries
Craving that bold, zesty Taco Bell flavor at home? These Taco Bell Nacho Fries are crispy, seasoned to perfection, and served with a creamy nacho cheese sauce—just like your fast food favorite. Make this irresistible snack or side dish in under 30 minutes!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex, Fast Food Copycat
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Fries:
- 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
- For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and American cheese)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Fries:
- Soak cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch (optional but recommended for extra crispiness).
- Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Toss fries with cornstarch to coat lightly.
- 2. Seasoning Mix:
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
- 3. Cook the Fries:
- For deep frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry fries in batches until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per batch.
- For baking/air frying: Preheat to 425°F (220°C), toss fries with a bit of oil, and bake/air fry for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- 4. Season the Fries:
- Immediately after frying or baking, toss fries in the seasoning mix while still hot.
- 5. Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheese, salt, chili powder, and cayenne. Stir until smooth and melty.
- 6. Serve:
- Plate the fries and serve with warm nacho cheese sauce on the side or drizzled over the top.
Notes
- 1. Prepare the Fries:
- Soak cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch (optional but recommended for extra crispiness).
- Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Toss fries with cornstarch to coat lightly.
- 2. Seasoning Mix:
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper.
- 3. Cook the Fries:
- For deep frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry fries in batches until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per batch.
- For baking/air frying: Preheat to 425°F (220°C), toss fries with a bit of oil, and bake/air fry for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- 4. Season the Fries:
- Immediately after frying or baking, toss fries in the seasoning mix while still hot.
- 5. Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheese, salt, chili powder, and cayenne. Stir until smooth and melty.
- 6. Serve:
- Plate the fries and serve with warm nacho cheese sauce on the side or drizzled over the top.
