Homemade Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever craved the famous Taco Bell Nacho Fries but didn’t want to make a trip to the restaurant, this easy homemade version is just what you need. Recreating fast-food favorites at home not only allows you to enjoy them anytime but also lets you control the ingredients, making them fresher and possibly even healthier.

Print

For beginner cooks, this recipe is a perfect starting point. It’s simple, requires minimal ingredients, and doesn’t demand any advanced cooking skills. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying to make something from scratch that tastes just as good—if not better—than the original. With a perfectly crisp texture, bold seasoning, and a creamy, cheesy dip, these nacho fries are guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Beginners

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. Frozen fries eliminate the need for peeling and cutting potatoes, while the seasoning mix is easy to put together with common pantry ingredients. The cheese sauce requires only three ingredients and melts together in the microwave, making it foolproof for even the most inexperienced cook.

Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the level of spice, swap ingredients based on what you have, or experiment with different dipping sauces. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these nacho fries are a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this dish, you will need just a few basic ingredients.

For the Fries:

• 1 pound Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries
• Vegetable oil for frying

While the store-bought frozen fries make this recipe quicker and easier, you can also use fresh potatoes. If using fresh potatoes, choose russet potatoes, cut them into thin strips, and soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This will help them crisp up better when fried.

For the Seasoning Mix:

• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)

This seasoning mix is what gives the fries their signature flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, try substituting smoked paprika for regular paprika.

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 16 slices American cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon liquid from the jar of jalapeño slices

American cheese is used in this recipe because it melts smoothly, creating a creamy sauce that closely resembles the one from Taco Bell. If you want a different flavor, you can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses. The jalapeño liquid adds a subtle heat, but you can replace it with regular milk if you prefer a milder sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine the salt, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a deep saucepan, ensuring that it is at least 3 inches deep to allow the fries to submerge fully. Heat the oil to 350°F (180°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature, as frying at the correct heat is key to achieving crispy fries. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of fry into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Step 3: Fry the Fries

Carefully place the frozen fries into the hot oil, frying them in batches to prevent overcrowding. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the fries to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them cool slightly while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

Unwrap the slices of American cheese and tear them into smaller pieces. Place the cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and add the milk and jalapeño liquid. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. This should take about 2 minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk and stir.

Step 5: Season the Fries

Place the cooked fries in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle the prepared seasoning mix over them. Toss the fries gently to coat them evenly in the seasoning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the seasoned fries immediately with the warm cheese sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy them while they’re hot and crispy.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Tell If the Fries Are Done

Fried potatoes should be golden brown and crisp on the outside. If they still appear pale after the suggested cooking time, leave them in the oil for an additional minute or two, but watch closely to prevent burning.

What to Do If the Cheese Sauce Is Too Thick or Thin

If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a small amount of milk and stir to reach the desired consistency. If it is too thin, microwave for an additional 15 seconds to allow it to thicken.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Air Fryer Method: If you prefer to avoid deep frying, cook the fries in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Oven-Baked Method: Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and spread the fries on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway for even crispness.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover fries, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or air fry them for a few minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the fries soggy.

The cheese sauce can also be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until smooth again.

Serving Suggestions

These nacho fries are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by adding toppings or pairing them with other dips. Here are some ideas:

• Loaded Nacho Fries: Top with cooked ground beef or shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and sliced jalapeños for a full meal.
• Additional Dips: Try serving the fries with guacamole, salsa, or a spicy ranch dip for variety.
• Side Dish Pairings: These fries go great with grilled chicken, burgers, or tacos for a complete fast-food-style meal at home.

Conclusion: Try It and Share Your Experience

Making Taco Bell Nacho Fries at home is not only easy but also a fun way to bring a restaurant favorite into your own kitchen. This beginner-friendly recipe requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. With a crispy texture, a bold seasoning mix, and a creamy cheese sauce, these fries are sure to impress family and friends.

Whether you stick to the recipe as is or experiment with different seasonings and toppings, you’ll love how customizable this dish can be. If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out. What toppings or dips did you add? Share your experience and any creative twists in the comments. Enjoy your homemade nacho fries!