Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Homemade Taco Bell nacho fries capture everything you love about the fast food favorite right in your own kitchen Packed with crave worthy seasoning and cheesy sauce these fries turn any night into a special treat or fun snack session

My family could eat these every game day and they disappear faster than anything else on the snack table One rainy afternoon I put these out and no one could believe how close they taste to the real deal

Ingredients

• Frozen extra crispy French fries: look for ones labeled as restaurant style for the closest match to fast food fries
• Vegetable oil: ensure it is fresh and neutral tasting for high heat frying
• Fine salt: choose pure salt without added anti caking agents for the cleanest taste
• Paprika: gives the fries their signature orange tint and earthy flavor I love Spanish paprika for a boost of aroma
• Garlic powder: opt for a new jar for brightest flavor
• Chili powder: try a mild blend if kids are sensitive to spice
• Onion powder: adds backbone and a classic savoriness
• Cayenne pepper: an optional kick for spice lovers
• Processed American cheese: using the individually wrapped slices ensures a velvety dipping sauce
• Whole milk: makes the cheese sauce smooth and scoopable I like whole milk for richness
• Pickled jalapeño brine: adds tang and tiny zesty pops use brine from jarred pickled jalapeños

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Seasoning:

In a small bowl combine fine salt paprika garlic powder chili powder onion powder and cayenne pepper Mix until the spices look completely blended and set aside for later

Heat the Frying Oil:

Pour a generous amount of vegetable oil into a deep heavy bottomed saucepan enough to cover the fries by several centimeters Place over medium high heat and gradually warm the oil to 180 degrees Celsius Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature steadily

Fry the Fries:

Add the frozen French fries carefully into the hot oil making sure to avoid overcrowding Fry for about 6 to 8 minutes stirring occasionally until golden brown and ultra crispy Remove with a slotted spoon and let rest on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

Unwrap the American cheese slices and tear them into smaller pieces for faster melting Place cheese pieces in a microwave safe bowl Add whole milk and pickled jalapeño brine Microwave the mixture in short thirty second intervals stopping to stir each time Continue until the sauce turns silky smooth and fully combined

Season the Fries:

Transfer the hot cooked fries into a large bowl Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture all over the fries Toss thoroughly until every fry takes on a vivid orange hue

Serve Up:

Spread the seasoned fries onto a large platter Set out the warm cheese sauce in a bowl for dipping Enjoy immediately while everything is hot and crispy

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The spice mix is my favorite part I always make extra to keep in a jar for popcorn or roasted potatoes Whenever my little brother visits he requests these fries and we have a running joke about who can eat the most cheese sauce

Storage tips

Leftover fries are best eaten right away but you can crisp them up in a hot oven if needed Store cooled fries in a paper towel lined container covered loosely in the fridge For the cheese sauce keep it airtight and reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving

Ingredient substitutions

No pickled jalapeño brine No problem A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness but you might miss the characteristic tang Try using Monterey Jack or mild cheddar if you prefer a less sharp cheese flavor

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Serving suggestions

These nacho fries are perfect next to grilled burgers loaded tacos or as an appetizer Spread them on a tray layer with seasoned ground beef and salsa for the ultimate nacho platter Sometimes I add extra pickled jalapeños on top for extra zing

Cultural historical context

Taco Bell launched nacho fries as a limited time menu item and they became an instant favorite Their unique blend of spices and creamy cheese sauce combine American fast food with a hint of Tex Mex inspiration Making them at home means you control the heat level and can enjoy them year round

Recipe FAQs

→ What's the best way to get fries extra crispy?

Heat oil to 180°C before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. Drain the fries well on paper towels immediately after frying to keep them crisp.

→ Can a different cheese be used for the sauce?

Yes, cheddar or Monterey Jack can add extra flavor, but American cheese ensures a smooth, creamy texture similar to classic nacho sauces.

→ What does the jalapeño brine add to the cheese sauce?

The brine introduces a subtle tang and mild heat, balancing the cheese’s richness and enhancing the sauce's overall flavor.

→ How long can the seasoned fries stay crisp after frying?

They are best enjoyed immediately, but holding them in a warm oven (not covered) for 10-15 minutes helps maintain their crispiness.

→ Is the cayenne pepper necessary?

The cayenne is optional—leave it out for a milder taste or increase it for extra heat, according to your spice preference.