Dessert

Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

ByIsabella Vance December 20, 2025December 20, 2025

Introduction

Taco Bell Nacho Fries are a crispy, flavorful twist on classic fries, seasoned with a bold spice blend and served with a creamy, cheesy dipping sauce. This recipe brings the excitement of a popular fast-food treat right into your kitchen.

A close-up image of a pile of golden-yellow French fries covered with a red seasoning powder, stacked unevenly on a white plate. The fries look crispy with a slightly rough texture due to the spice dusting. In the slightly blurred background, there is a white bowl filled with a smooth, bright yellow dipping sauce. The surface beneath the plate is white with a marbled pattern, adding a clean and light feel to the image. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 teaspoons Salt
2 Tablespoons Paprika
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
2 teaspoons Chili Powder
1 teaspoon Onion Powder
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)
16 slices American Cheese
1/4 cup Milk
1 Tablespoon Liquid from the Jar of Jalapeño Slices
1 pound Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries
Vegetable Oil for Frying

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, stir together salt, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) to create the seasoning mixture.
Step 2: Fill a saucepan with vegetable oil at least 3 inches deep and heat to 350°F (180°C).
Step 3: Carefully fry the frozen fries in the hot oil over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes or until crispy and golden. Drain on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Allow the fries to cool slightly while you prepare the cheese sauce.
Step 5: Tear the American cheese slices into smaller pieces and place in a microwave-safe bowl along with milk and the jalapeño liquid.
Step 6: Microwave the mixture uncovered in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the cheese is fully melted and combined into a smooth sauce.
Step 7: Transfer the fries to a large mixing bowl and toss them well with the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
Step 8: Serve the seasoned fries with the warm cheese sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade Nacho Fries!

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add more jalapeño liquid or some diced jalapeños directly to the cheese sauce.
Use a flavorful cheese like Pepper Jack for a spicy twist on the cheese sauce.
If you prefer baked fries, cook according to package instructions, then toss with seasoning before serving with cheese sauce.

Storage

Store any leftover fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fries in a hot oven or air fryer to help retain crispness, and warm the cheese sauce gently in the microwave, stirring to restore smoothness.

How to Serve

The image shows a clear glass bowl full of golden-yellow French fries coated evenly with red chili powder, giving them a spicy look. Next to the bowl is a white bowl filled with smooth, bright yellow cheese sauce that has a thick texture. Above them is a small clear jar filled with coarse white salt. All items are placed on a white marbled surface with a white and black striped cloth partly visible on the left side. The scene is bright and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use freshly cut potatoes, but be sure to soak and dry them well before frying to achieve the best crispiness and coat evenly with the seasoning.