Dinner

Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

Bylina Carter February 7, 2026February 7, 2026

Introduction

Taco Bell Nacho Fries are a crispy, flavorful snack perfect for satisfying your salty and cheesy cravings. This homemade version captures the iconic taste with a spicy seasoning blend and creamy cheese sauce. Enjoy making this fun treat right in your kitchen!

A white plate filled with a mound of golden-yellow French fries covered in a light layer of dark seasoning, giving them a speckled brown and black look; the fries are crispy with some rough edges and scattered bits of seasoning on and around them; behind the plate, there is a white bowl blurred in the background and a dark textured cloth draped to the side, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries
Vegetable Oil for frying

2 Tbsp paprika
2 tsp salt

2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
16 slices American cheese

1/4 cup milk
1 Tbsp liquid from the jar of jalapeño slices

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, stir together paprika, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create the seasoning mix. Set aside.

Step 2: Pour vegetable oil into a saucepan to about 3 inches deep and heat to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Fry the frozen fries in the hot oil for 6-8 minutes until crispy and golden. Remove fries and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: While the fries cool slightly, prepare the cheese sauce. Tear the American cheese slices into smaller pieces and combine them with milk and jalapeño liquid in a microwave-safe bowl.

Step 5: Microwave the cheese mixture uncovered in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Place the drained fries in a large bowl and toss them thoroughly with the prepared seasoning blend to coat evenly.
Step 7: Serve the seasoned fries alongside the warm cheese sauce for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy immediately!

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
Use a skillet to shallow fry the fries if you don’t have a deep saucepan.
Substitute American cheese with a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a different cheese sauce texture.

Add chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for extra heat.

Storage

Store any leftover seasoned fries and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fries in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness, and warm the cheese sauce gently in the microwave before serving.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with one layer of golden brown French fries, generously coated with a mix of dark brown and black seasoning powder that adds texture and specks all over the fries. The fries are slightly crunchy and piled in a casual way, showing some flaky bits of seasoning around them. In the background, there is a blurred white bowl filled with a light cream-colored dipping sauce placed on a white marbled surface. A dark gray cloth napkin is partially visible on the left side next to the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake the fries instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake frozen fries according to package instructions for a healthier option, then toss them with the seasoning and serve with cheese sauce. While not as crispy as deep-fried, it’s a convenient alternative.

What can I use instead of jalapeño liquid in the cheese sauce?

If you don’t have jalapeño liquid, use a little milk mixed with a small amount of hot sauce or finely chopped jalapeños to add similar flavor and heat to the cheese sauce.