Name: Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: Mexican‑inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb frozen extra‑crispy straight‑cut fries; Vegetable oil for frying (or as needed); 2 Tbsp paprika; 2 tsp chili powder; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 16 slices American cheese (or about 10 oz nacho cheese); ¼ cup milk; 1 Tbsp pickled jalapeño liquid

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I’m excited to share this homemade version of Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries. I’ve tested and tweaked it so that it’s as close as possible to the real thing—crispy seasoned fries with a creamy nacho cheese sauce that hits the spot every time.

Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because I can enjoy Taco Bell-style Nacho Fries anytime—no waiting for them to reappear on the menu. It’s customizable—spice levels, toppings, cooking method—and easy to scale up for parties or down for snacks. Making the cheese sauce from scratch gives it a freshness pre-made versions just can’t match.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

French Fry Seasoning
• 2 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Nacho Cheese Sauce
• 1 tbsp salted butter
• ½ cup whole milk
• 8 oz American cheese (sliced or block)
• 1 tbsp jalapeño juice or green hot sauce

Fries
• 1 lb extra-crispy frozen French fries
• Oil for frying (or use oven or air fryer)

directions

I combine the spices for the fry seasoning—paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic and onion powders, and optional cayenne—and mix well.
I heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F, or I preheat the air fryer or oven following package directions.
I fry the frozen fries for about 6–8 minutes until crispy and golden, then place them on a paper towel or rack to drain.
While the fries rest, I melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, then stir in milk and jalapeño juice. I slowly add the cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
I immediately toss the hot fries with the seasoning blend while they’re still warm so the spices stick well.
I serve the fries hot with the nacho cheese sauce on the side or poured over the top.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10–15 minutes
Total time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

I make loaded nacho fries by adding taco-seasoned ground beef, guacamole, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and jalapeño slices on top.
For a lighter version, I bake or air-fry the fries instead of deep-frying them.
If I want a vegetarian or vegan version, I use plant-based cheese and skip the dairy in the sauce.
I sometimes switch up the seasoning by using taco seasoning, Cajun spices, or smoked paprika for different flavor twists.

storage/reheating

I store leftover fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Fries keep for up to 3 days, and the sauce lasts about 5 days.
To reheat fries, I use the oven or air fryer to bring back their crispiness. I reheat the cheese sauce on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to make it smooth again.
I avoid microwaving the fries if I want to keep their texture.

FAQs

How can I make fries crispier without deep-frying?

I use an air fryer or oven at a high temperature. Preheating to 400°F and not overcrowding the tray helps the fries get extra crispy.

Can I use fresh-cut potatoes instead of frozen fries?

I can, but I make sure to soak and dry them well first to remove excess starch and get a crispier result.

What cheese works best if I don’t have American cheese?

I like using Velveeta or processed cheddar. They melt smoothly and have the right texture for a nacho cheese sauce.

Is this recipe very spicy?

I control the heat. The seasoning and cheese sauce can be made mild or spicy based on how much cayenne or jalapeño juice I use.

Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the sauce a few days in advance and reheat it gently before serving. I store it in the fridge and stir in a bit of milk when warming up to keep it creamy.

Conclusion

I love how easy and delicious these Taco Bell-style Nacho Fries are to make at home. The seasoned fries and creamy cheese sauce come together in under 30 minutes and taste just like the fast-food favorite. Whether I’m making them as a snack, side dish, or a full meal with toppings, this recipe always satisfies my craving.