Description
Taco Bell Nacho Fries at home are easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. These crispy, seasoned fries paired with a rich nacho cheese sauce are the perfect snack or side dish. Whether you’re craving the bold flavors of Taco Bell’s famous fries or want to try a fun recipe at home, this step-by-step guide will help you make the delicious fries from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Fries:
- 3 large russet potatoes
- 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño juice (for a tangy kick)
Instructions
Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Afterward, cut them into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick, to resemble the size of fast-food fries. You can use a fry cutter if you have one for consistent sizing.
Pro tip: Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This step will help the fries achieve that desirable crispiness.
After soaking the fries, drain and pat them dry with paper towels. Heat your vegetable oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer to 300°F (150°C). Working in batches, fry the potatoes for about 3-4 minutes. This step is not meant to fully cook them but to soften the inside of the fries without browning them yet. Once done, remove the fries and let them rest on a paper towel-lined tray.
While the fries rest, prepare the seasoning mix. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Now, heat the oil to 375°F (190°C). Fry the par-cooked potatoes again, working in batches, for 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. After frying, place them on paper towels to drain the excess oil.
Immediately toss the hot fries in your prepared seasoning mix to ensure they get coated evenly while the fries are still warm. The cornstarch in the seasoning helps the spices adhere better, enhancing the flavor.
While the fries are frying, start working on the nacho cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it brown.
Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens. Lower the heat and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, black pepper, and pickled jalapeño juice.
Pro tip: If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can strain it through a fine sieve to remove any clumps or lumps.
Arrange the seasoned fries on a serving plate and generously drizzle the nacho cheese sauce over the top. You can also serve the cheese sauce on the side for dipping if you prefer.
Notes
- This recipe allows you to recreate Taco Bell’s famous Nacho Fries at home, ensuring crispy fries and a delicious nacho cheese sauce.
- You can adjust the seasoning and spice levels according to your preference, and feel free to explore variations such as loaded fries or vegan alternatives.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes (including soaking time for potatoes)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Side Dish, Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired, Fast-Food Copycat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion of fries with cheese sauce (based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg