Description
This Taco Bell Nacho Fries recipe delivers crispy, seasoned fries smothered in a creamy, spicy nacho cheese sauce. Perfect as a shareable side or indulgent snack, these fries are coated in a flavorful spice blend and topped with a homemade cheese sauce combining sharp cheddar and pepper jack for the authentic Tex-Mex taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Fries
- 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Nacho Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Soak and Prepare Fries: Soak the cut russet potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain them and pat thoroughly dry to ensure crispiness when frying.
- Season the Fries: In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with cornstarch, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper until each fry is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Heat Oil and Fry Fries: Heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they turn golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, ground cumin, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Serve: Serve the hot crispy fries immediately with the warm nacho cheese sauce poured over or on the side for dipping. Enjoy fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle additional seasoning over the fries immediately after frying.
- Frozen fries can be used for convenience, though the spice coating may adhere less effectively.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness according to your preference.
