Description

This homemade version captures the essence of Taco Bell’s beloved Nacho Fries, balancing the crispy texture of the fries with the warmth and spice of the seasoning and the smooth, rich cheese sauce. It’s an ideal recipe for those seeking to enjoy a fast food favorite with the added satisfaction of DIY, or for anyone looking to bring a bit of culinary creativity to their snack or mealtime routines.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries
Vegetable Oil for Frying

FOR THE SEASONING MIXTURE:

2 Tbsp Paprika
2 tsp Salt
2 tsp Chili Powder
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional)

FOR THE CHEESE SAUCE:

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

Instructions

Stir together the seasoning mixture ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Fill a saucepan with the oil to at least 3 inches deep and heat the oil to 350 degrees F.
Cook the fries in the hot oil for 6-8 minutes or until they are crispy. Then move the fries to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up the extra oil.
While the fries cool slightly, make the cheese sauce by unwrapping the cheese and tearing the slices into smaller pieces. Place the cheese and the other cheese sauce ingredients into a microwave-safe bowl.
Microwave the mixture uncovered in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the cheese has melted and is well combined with the other ingredients.
Then place the fries in a large mixing bowl and toss them with the seasoning blend.
Serve the fries with the cheese sauce on the side and enjoy!

Notes

Customization: The recipe allows for easy customization. Adjust the spice levels to suit your preference, or experiment with additional toppings like sour cream, chives, or ground beef for extra flavor and texture.
Vegan Adaptations: For a vegan version, substitute the cheese sauce with a plant-based cheese and milk alternative. There are also numerous vegan seasoning blends that can mimic the taste of the original spices used.
Storage and Reheating: If you have leftovers, storing them properly and reheating as recommended can help maintain the fries’ crispiness and flavor. Using an oven or air fryer for reheating is preferable to the microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: 633 kcal