Description

Craving that bold Taco Bell Nacho Fries flavor? Now you can make them at home—crispy, seasoned fries with a spicy kick, topped with gooey melted cheddar and creamy nacho cheese sauce. These homemade nacho fries are oven-baked (or air fried!) and totally customizable with your favorite toppings. Ultimate comfort food in under an hour!

Ingredients

Scale

2 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into fry shapes
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice level)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce (store-bought or homemade!)

Instructions

Cut potatoes into thin fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat very dry with paper towels.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the dry fries with vegetable oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Spread fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes, flip fries, then bake another 15–20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
While fries are baking, warm the nacho cheese sauce in the microwave or on the stove. As soon as fries come out of the oven, sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with warm nacho cheese sauce. Serve immediately!

Notes

Want them extra crispy? Use an air fryer at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway through. Homemade Nacho Cheese Sauce: Melt 2 tbsp butter, whisk in 2 tbsp flour, add 1 cup milk, stir until thick, then add 1 cup shredded cheddar + a pinch of chili powder. Add toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, seasoned beef (pork-free), or guac for loaded fries!

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT40M
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/3 of recipe)
Calories: 410
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: nacho fries, Taco Bell copycat, crispy fries, nacho cheese, homemade fries