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Taco Bell Nacho Fries at Home

  • Author: Judy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish, Snack
  • Method: Baking, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy, seasoned fries paired with a creamy, zesty nacho cheese sauce, reminiscent of the fast-food favorite but made even better at home.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Fries:

2 teaspoons paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 pound frozen French fries

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

1 tablespoon salted butter

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 cup whole milk

8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño brine (from jarred jalapeños)

¼ teaspoon chili powder


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fries:

    • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
    • Spread the frozen fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
    • In a small bowl, mix the paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
    • Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the fries, tossing to coat.
    • Bake according to package instructions (usually 25-30 minutes), until crispy and golden brown.
  2. Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
    • Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
    • Cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
    • Reduce heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
    • Mix in the pickled jalapeño brine and chili powder for extra flavor. Keep warm.
  3. Assemble & Serve:

    • Remove the fries from the oven and let them cool slightly.
    • Serve the seasoned fries with the warm nacho cheese sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
  • For a smoother cheese sauce, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded.
  • Feel free to add additional toppings like diced jalapeños, sour cream, or guacamole.