Pin
Bring the taste of Taco Bell’s nacho fries home. Crunchy, spiced fries and a dreamy cheese dip come together in minutes. It’s the snack everyone wants when hangouts or late night cravings hit.
Every game day these fries vanish instantly in my house. Rainy afternoon, I dropped them on the counter and everyone crowded around. My crew swears they taste just like takeout.
Irresistible Ingredients
- Frozen extra crispy fries: Go for restaurant style to nail that signature crunch
- Vegetable oil: Fresh, neutral oil is key—stand up to high heat without odd taste
- Paprika: Gives a bold orange color and smoky kick; smoked Spanish type pops
- Garlic powder: Crack open a new jar for a max punch
- Chili powder: Use a milder type if spice isn’t your thing or for kids
- Onion powder: Layers on extra savory notes
- Fine salt: Pure is better for classic flavor—skip additives
- Cayenne: Sprinkle in if you want a spicy hit—it’s not required
- American cheese slices (processed): Unwrap the singles for silkiest dip
- Whole milk: Makes everything creamy and scoopable—use full fat for best taste
- Pickled jalapeño brine: Splash in brine for a zingy twist—grab juice from jarred jalapeños
Easy Hands-On Steps
- Serve It:
- Dump seasoned fries onto your favorite tray, then set out your cheesy dip while everything’s still piping hot and golden. Dig in quick so nothing gets soggy.
- Season the Fries:
- Once the fries are hot, move them to a big bowl. Shower on all that spice mix and toss lots, so the fries get a nice orange color all over every side.
- Make the Cheese Dip:
- Tear up cheese slices for quicker melting and put in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour in whole milk and some jalapeño brine. Warm in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time, mixing after each round, until it gets creamy and totally smooth.
- Fry the Fries:
- Carefully place your frozen fries into the hot oil without jamming too many in at once. Fry for 6 to 8 minutes, give them a stir now and then, until they’re crunchy and deeply golden. Scoop finished fries out and rest on paper towels so they aren’t greasy.
- Heat Up the Oil:
- Get your deep, sturdy pot and add enough oil so your fries can float. Medium-high heat is perfect—aim for 180°C and check with a thermometer as you go.
- Whip Up the Spice Blend:
- Mix salt, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a small bowl till totally combined. Set aside—you’ll need it after frying.
Pin
The spice blend is hands down my favorite part. I stash extra in the cupboard for jazzing up popcorn or potatoes. My brother always demands I make a batch—with us, it’s a contest who can finish the cheese dip first.
Tips for Leftovers
Fries taste best right out of the fryer, but you can crisp them up again in a really hot oven. If you have to stash leftovers, store fries in a paper towel-lined box covered loosely in the fridge. Cheese dip hangs out in a closed container—reheat slow with an extra splash of milk before you use it again.
Switching it Up
No jalapeño brine in your fridge? Squeeze in a little lemon for brightness—you’ll miss some tang but it works. Swap in Monterey Jack or mild cheddar if you’re not into a sharp cheese bite.
Pin
How to Serve Them
Best with loaded tacos, next to juicy burgers, or in a party spread. Layer with seasoned beef and salsa for a nacho tray upgrade. For even more kick, throw extra pickled jalapeños on top.
Fun Backstory
When Taco Bell brought out nacho fries, everyone freaked out. They hit the sweet spot between American fast food comfort and Tex-Mex flavor with that spice blend and cheese. At home you can turn up the spice or have them whenever—not just a limited time thing.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make fries turn out extra crunchy?
Crank your oil up to 180°C. Don’t crowd the pot. Scoop your fries out and let them rest on paper towels right after, so they stay snappy.
- → Can I switch up the cheese for the dip?
Totally—try cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different taste. But American cheese stays smooth and creamy just like the classic dip.
- → Why add the juice from pickled jalapeños to the cheese dip?
It gives the dip a tiny bit of heat and a tangy kick that cuts through the cheese, making everything taste brighter.
- → How long will the fries stay crunchy after frying them?
Best to eat them right away, but if you need to wait, pop them in a warm oven uncovered for up to 15 minutes to keep that crispy bite.
- → Is cayenne a must here?
You can skip the cayenne for less spice or toss in more if you like things hotter—it’s up to your taste buds.