Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • Salt, to taste

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar + a bit of American cheese for extra creaminess)
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prep the Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Toss the potato fries in vegetable oil, then sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne (if using), and salt. Mix well to coat evenly.
  3. Arrange fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, or in the air fryer basket.
  4. Bake or air fry for 20–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
  5. Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  6. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).
  7. Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth. Add chili powder, paprika, and salt; stir to combine.
  8. Serve: Pile the hot fries on a plate and drizzle generously with warm nacho cheese sauce. Enjoy immediately!

If you’d like, I can help you make a copycat seasoning blend closer to Taco Bell’s exact taste too — just let me know!

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