Taco Bell Nacho Fries

This copycat version of Taco Bell Nacho Fries delivers crispy, perfectly seasoned fries paired with a rich nacho cheese sauce that brings the fast food favorite right into your kitchen. Whether you miss them on the menu or want a homemade snack, this recipe hits the spot every time.

I first tried making these during a weekend craving and was amazed how close they tasted to Taco Bell. Now they’re a staple whenever game day rolls around or I want easy comfort food.

Ingredients

• Paprika: Paprika for that smoky warmth choose a bright, fragrant variety for best flavor
• Kosher salt: Kosher salt to enhance all the other seasonings and balance the taste
• Chili powder: Chili powder adds classic Tex Mex earthiness use mild if you prefer less heat
• Garlic powder: Garlic powder for a savory punch that complements the fries
• Onion powder: Onion powder deepens the flavor profile avoid onion salt to control saltiness
• Black pepper: Black pepper for a mild sharpness that brings it all together
• Cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper is optional but adds a gentle kick leave it out if you’re sensitive to spice
• Neutral oil: Neutral oil such as avocado or light olive oil helps seasonings stick and crisps the fries nicely
• Frozen fries: Extra crispy fast food style frozen fries create the perfect crunchy base
• CheezWhiz cheese dip: CheezWhiz cheese dip for the authentic creamy nacho cheese sauce
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is optional but gives extra cheesy goodness
• Pickled jalapeno juice: Pickled jalapeno juice thins the sauce and adds tangy heat adjust according to your taste

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

(Although in this recipe there is no actual sauteing, the premixing of seasonings builds a flavor foundation.) Mix paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper thoroughly in a bowl. This ensures even seasoning on fries.

Prepare the Air Fryer:

Preheat your 6 quart basket air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for five minutes if yours recommends preheating. This will help achieve crispy fries faster.

Season the Fries Batch One:

Place half of the frozen fries in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Drizzle one tablespoon of oil over them, then shake the basket or toss to coat fries evenly with oil. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mix over the fries, then shake again to spread the spices well.

Cook the Fries:

Air fry for about ten minutes. Pause and shake the fries around to ensure even cooking. Continue cooking for five more minutes or until fries are golden and crisp.

Season the Fries Batch Two:

Repeat the oil and seasoning process with the remaining fries for the second batch. This batch often cooks faster since the air fryer is already hot. Add extra salt at the end if needed.

Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

While fries cook, combine the CheezWhiz cheese dip, shredded cheddar cheese, and pickled jalapeno juice in a small pot over medium heat. Whisk frequently until the mixture is smooth and melted to perfect dipping consistency. Adjust jalapeno juice for desired spiciness and tang.

Serve:

Remove fries from air fryer and immediately serve with the warm nacho cheese sauce. Enjoy while hot for the best flavor and crisp texture.

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My favorite ingredient has to be the paprika it gives the seasoning blend such a rich, smoky undertone that feels indulgent without being overpowering. Serving these at family gatherings always brings back nostalgic smiles and requests for seconds.

Storage Tips

Leftover fries stay best in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three to four days. The cheese sauce tastes better when stored separately and gently reheated. Reheat fries in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for five to eight minutes to regain crispiness. Microwave the cheese sauce in short bursts, stirring often.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer not to use CheezWhiz, you can substitute your favorite storebought nacho cheese sauce or make a homemade version with melted Velveeta and milk. For the fries, crinkle cut or regular frozen fries from brands like Walmart also work well if you cannot find extra crispy ones. Oil can be swapped for any neutral light oil but avoid strong flavored oils that may overpower the seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

These nacho fries shine as a snack or appetizer alongside other Taco Bell inspired dishes such as Mexican pizza, enchiritos, or chili cheese burritos. Pair them with a cold soda or your favorite margarita for a fun twist on fast food at home. Adding chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime brightens the flavors even more.

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Enjoy these addictive copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries anytime you crave crispy, cheesy goodness that rivals your favorite fast food.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What type of air fryer works best for these fries?

A 6-quart basket-style air fryer is ideal as it allows even cooking and space for shaking the fries. Other models may require timing adjustments.

→ Can I cook the fries using oil fryers or baking instead?

Yes, fries can be pan-fried in hot oil or baked at 425°F for 15-20 minutes to achieve crispiness, though baking takes longer.

→ What can I use if I don't have Cheez Whiz cheese dip?

Homemade nacho cheese sauce, melted Velveeta, or other smooth cheese sauces are great alternatives for the dipping sauce.

→ Are these fries spicy?

They have a mild heat from the chili powder and optional cayenne pepper, which can be omitted to reduce spiciness.

→ How should leftover fries and cheese sauce be stored?

Store fries in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days and keep the cheese sauce separate. Reheat fries in the air fryer and warm sauce in short microwave intervals.