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Missing those crispy golden Taco Bell nacho fries? Make a batch at home right now. There's no line and they're fast. The flavors totally hit the spot and the cheese dip makes them unforgettable. Big plates are perfect for binge watching or when you need a salty fix.
I tried these at a friend's get together and everyone was fighting over the last handful. After that, my family started asking for them anytime we're in the mood for a playful snack.
Tasty Ingredients
- Ore Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries: these make fries crunchy like at the drive thru; pick a bag without icy clumps for better results
- Vegetable Oil for Frying: go for something plain with a high smoke point like peanut or canola oil
- Salt: makes flavors pop; try sea or kosher for a nice sprinkle
- Paprika: gives a mild smoky kick; Spanish sweet paprika is awesome for bold taste
- Garlic Powder: puts in a mellow heat and depth; toss any that looks lumpy
- Chili Powder: brings that classic nacho color and kick; fresher is better
- Onion Powder: gives extra savoriness; fine powder works best for coating
- Cayenne Pepper: turns up the spice; it's optional but a little adds a punch
- American Cheese: melts smooth and gooey; grab a creamy kind for best dip
- Milk: makes the sauce silky; whole is richest but any will do
- Liquid from a Jalapeño Jar: use this tangy juice for zing and gentle heat
Simple Steps
- Put Together the Seasoning:
- Stir your salt, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne in a little bowl. Smash any chunks flat so everything mixes really well.
- Warm Up the Oil:
- Fill a deep pot or pan with oil until it's about three inches high. Clip on a thermometer and heat over medium till you hit three-fifty. The oil gets hot pretty quick, so keep an eye on it.
- Cook Up the Fries:
- Carefully tip in the frozen fries in batches. Let them fry for six to eight minutes, giving them a gentle stir or two so they get evenly golden. Lift them out with a slotted spoon and set them on paper towels. Let them cool a sec so spices stick.
- Whip Up the Cheese Sauce:
- While fries are cooling, combine little torn cheese slices, milk, and jalapeño juice in a microwave safe bowl. Zap it for thirty seconds, give it a stir, repeat, until creamy and smooth.
- Season the Fries:
- Toss fried potatoes into a big bowl. Dust with your spice mix. Gently move them around so all sides get coated and shiny.
- Dive In:
- Stack fries on a tray and serve the warm cheese dip next to them or pour it right over the fries. Eat while they're fresh and hot.
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One of my best hacks is tossing a bit of jalapeño juice into the cheese dip. That tang really works magic. One time, my cousin and I swapped it for plain water and totally regretted it. That story still cracks us up every time we make these together.
Keeping Extras Fresh
They're best right from the fryer, but leftovers will keep in a sealed box in the fridge for two days. For reheating, spread fries on a baking sheet and bake at four hundred degrees for five minutes. They'll crisp up again. Microwave the cheese dip to warm it, add a stir, and you're set.
Change Things Up
No fast food fries at home? Just use whatever frozen fries you've got—they might be a bit less crunchy but they're still delicious. You can sub cheddar for American if you like more bite, or swap in pepper jack for a spicy twist. If you don't have jalapeño brine, a bit of pickle juice does the trick in a pinch.
Fun Ways to Serve
Pile them up for a snacking spread. Dip in guac, sour cream, or salsa for full nacho style. They're also a wild burger topper or a side for grilled chicken. Add some sliced scallions or a few pickled jalapeño rings for kick.
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Wild Nacho Fries Story
Taco Bell dropped nacho fries in 2018 and folks went wild for them. The spice blend nails that Tex Mex vibe and everyone comes back for the creamy dipping sauce. With a couple pantry staples, you can bring those tastes home anytime.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Why are these nacho fries so tasty?
The mix of spices—like chili, paprika, onion, garlic, a bit of cayenne, and salt—makes the fries super bold and tasty.
- → Tips for making fries really crunchy?
Toss frozen fries into oil at 350°F and cook till they turn a deep golden. Lay them on paper towels after to keep them crispy before seasoning.
- → What's the top cheese for melty nacho sauce?
American cheese is the way to go—it melts so smooth. Pair it with milk and a splash of jalapeño juice to make it saucy and zippy.
- → Can I change how spicy the fries are?
Sure—want less kick? Cut back or skip the cayenne. Want more? Sprinkle in extra to bring the heat up. Totally your call.
- → Could I bake the fries instead of frying?
Definitely—just bake them per the bag’s directions, then toss with the spice blend. You’ll get that tasty flavor without all the oil.