copycat taco bell nacho fries recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
copycat taco bell nacho fries recipe
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The Best copycat taco bell nacho fries recipe

I am absolutely thrilled to share with you my favorite copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries recipe. As a busy mom of three, I’m always on the lookout for delicious and easy-to-make meals that my family will love.

These nacho fries are a game-changer – they’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. My kids go crazy for them, and I love how quickly they can be made in under 30 minutes.

The best part? They’re healthier than traditional fries thanks to the use of sweet potatoes and a drizzle of olive oil instead of deep-frying them.

It’s a win-win for everyone involved! The first time I tried these nacho fries was at Taco Bell, where I was immediately hooked on the combination of crunchy fries and gooey cheese.

But when I realized how simple it was to make them at home, I knew I had to share the recipe with my fellow foodies. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy these tasty treats in the comfort of your own home.

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or using them as a fun snack for your kids, these nacho fries are sure to be a hit. So go ahead, get creative with your toppings, and enjoy every bite of this mouthwatering recipe.

Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

4.5 from 1635 votes

Crispy seasoned fries topped with warm nacho cheese sauce, just like the fast food favorite. This homemade version uses simple ingredients to recreate the iconic Taco Bell flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Fries

4 large russet potatoes, cut into thin fries
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3In a large bowl, toss the potato fries with vegetable oil until evenly coated.
4Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the fries and toss again to distribute the seasoning.
5Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
7While the fries bake, make the cheese sauce.
8In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
9Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until it forms a paste.
10Gradually whisk in the milk and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 3 to 4 minutes.
11Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
12Stir in salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using.
13Keep the sauce warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally, until the fries are ready.
14Remove the fries from the oven and let them cool for 2 minutes.
15Serve immediately with the warm nacho cheese sauce on the side or drizzled over the top.

🔧Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Large bowl
Small saucepan
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 12g

📝Notes

For extra crispy fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning. Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level of the cheese sauce.

Watch Video Of How Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries Works

These copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries are always a good idea – whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a delicious side dish to accompany your favorite meals.

My family loves how easy they are to make and how versatile they are when it comes to toppings.

Plus, they’re so much healthier than traditional fried foods thanks to the use of sweet potatoes and olive oil instead of deep-frying them.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Q: What is the secret ingredient that makes these nacho fries taste like Taco Bell’s?

A: The secret ingredient is actually quite simple – it’s a blend of spices that gives the nacho fries their distinctive flavor. You can find this blend in most grocery stores or online. Simply sprinkle it over your fries before baking for an authentic taste.

Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

A: While regular potatoes will work in a pinch, sweet potatoes are definitely the preferred choice for this recipe. They hold their shape better when baked and have a naturally sweeter flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and spices.

Q: How do I get my nacho fries to stay crispy after baking?

A: To keep your nacho fries crispy after baking, try broiling them for an extra minute or two until they’re golden brown. This will help preserve their crunchiness even after they’ve cooled slightly.

Q: Can I make these nacho fries in advance and store them in the fridge?

A: Yes, you can definitely make these nacho fries ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to serve these nacho fries?

A: The best way to serve these nacho fries is as a side dish at your next family gathering or party. They’re perfect for snacking on while watching movies or sports events too!

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