Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe Perfect for Parties Recipe
This Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries recipe delivers crispy, seasoned fries paired with a creamy, spicy nacho cheese sauce, perfect for parties and game days. Thinly sliced russet potatoes are fried to golden perfection, then tossed in a flavorful seasoning blend and served with a homemade cheddar cheese sauce that adds a deliciously rich and spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fries
- 2–3 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into thin fries
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Nacho Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and slice them into thin fries, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Soak the fries: Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch and ensure crispiness.
- Dry the fries: Drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to prevent oil splatter and promote crispness while frying.
- Mix the seasoning blend: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and ground black pepper.
- Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for frying.
- Fry the potatoes: Carefully add the dried potato slices in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying each batch for about 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Drain the fries: Remove the fries using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Toss fries with seasoning: While still warm, toss the fries in the prepared seasoning blend until evenly coated to distribute the flavors perfectly.
- Make the nacho cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add milk and cheese: Gradually whisk in whole milk, avoiding lumps, then add grated sharp cheddar cheese and stir continuously until the sauce is melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce: Stir in cayenne pepper and a pinch of salt to enhance the spicy and savory flavor of the cheese sauce.
- Serve: Serve the seasoned fries hot with the nacho cheese sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling for a perfect party snack.
Notes
- Soaking the fries in cold water is key to achieving crispy fries by removing excess starch.
- Patting the fries dry before frying prevents oil splatters and helps achieve a crisp texture.
- Do not overcrowd the fryer to maintain the oil temperature and ensure fries cook evenly.
- The cayenne pepper in the seasoning and sauce can be adjusted or omitted depending on spice preferences.
- Sharp cheddar cheese provides a robust flavor, but you can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack if desired.
- For best results, serve the fries immediately after frying and seasoning to enjoy maximum crispiness.
