Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries with Cheese Sauce

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Who needs to hit the drive-thru when you can bring the flavor of Taco Bell Nacho Fries straight to your kitchen? This easy recipe is perfect for when you’re craving that crispy, seasoned goodness but want to skip the line.

Whether you’re whipping them up for a quick snack or adding them to your game day spread, these fries are guaranteed to hit the spot. Plus, with a kick of spice and a side of creamy cheese sauce, they’re the kind of comfort food that everyone can get behind.

Ingredients for Copycat Nacho Fries

• French Fries: The base of the dish, providing that classic crispy texture to hold the seasoning and dip into the cheese sauce.
• Seasonings: Use salt, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to recreate the tasty flavor of the restaurant version.
• Milk: Thins out the cheese sauce to a creamy consistency, perfect for dipping.
• Liquid from the Jar of Jalapeño Slices: Introduces a tangy, spicy element to the cheese sauce, enhancing the overall flavor with a subtle kick.
• Nacho Cheese: The star of the dipping sauce, offering that rich, cheesy flavor that pairs perfectly with the seasoned fries.

How to Make Taco Bell Nacho Fries at Home

Make your fry seasoning: Mix together the salt, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.

Prepare the cheese sauce: Combine the milk, jalapeño liquid, and nacho cheese in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in the microwave until warm and smooth.

Season the fries: Toss the cooked French fries in a large bowl with the seasoning mix until they’re evenly coated.

Serve and enjoy: Plate the seasoned fries and serve them with the warm cheese sauce on the side for dipping.

Seasoned Fries Tips and Tricks

Cheese sauce texture: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk or jalapeño liquid until you reach your desired consistency.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch of seasoning and store it in an airtight container for quick and easy future use.

Alternative dipping options: Serve with guacamole, ranch dip, or salsa alongside the cheese sauce for a variety of dipping flavors.

Additions and Variations

Diced Tomatoes and Onions: Create a loaded fries version by adding fresh diced tomatoes and onions on top.

Sweet Potato Fries: Swap regular fries for sweet potato fries for a sweeter alternative.

Low-Sodium Seasoning: Reduce the salt or use a low-sodium salt substitute in the seasoning mix.

Dairy-Free Cheese Sauce: Use a plant-based cheese sauce or a homemade cashew-based cheese sauce for a vegan version.

Nacho Fries FAQ

Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen fries work perfectly for this recipe and save time.

Does it matter what type of fries I use?

Nope. We like crinkle cut fries because they hold on to more of the seasoning, but steak fries, shoestring fries, or restaurant-style fries are all great choices. Waffle fries could be fun, too!

Can I make the fries in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Just follow the air fryer instructions for crispy fries and then season them as directed.

How can I make the cheese sauce spicier?
Add more jalapeño liquid or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

What if I don’t have cayenne pepper?
You can substitute it with a pinch of red pepper flakes or simply skip it if you prefer less heat.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, any meltable cheese can work, but nacho cheese gives the most authentic flavor.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.