Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

Name: Taco Bell Nacho Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
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

Posted on January 4, 2026

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Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re anything like me, you’ve definitely had a craving for those delicious Taco Bell Nacho Fries. Well, I’m here to tell you that you can whip up a homemade version that’s just as tasty and comes together in about 30 minutes! You’ll be using a deep frying method to get those fries perfectly crispy for a quick and easy weeknight meal that your family will love! Best of all, you can easily switch up the toppings and ingredients to suit your taste, or even use this recipe as a fun way to clean out the fridge. Let’s dive in!

Ingredient Breakdown

Before we get started, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make these Crispy Taco Bell Nacho Fries at home. This delicious recipe requires simple ingredients that you likely have on hand or can easily pick up at your grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need:

2 teaspoons Salt : For seasoning the fries to perfection.
2 Tablespoons Paprika : Adds that lovely color and flavor.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder : A must-have for that savory kick.
2 teaspoons Chili Powder : For a bit of heat!
1 teaspoon Onion Powder : Adds depth to your seasoning.
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional) : Only if you like it spicy!
16 slices American Cheese : Yes, the classic! Creamy and melty goodness.
1/4 cup Milk : Helps create the cheesiest sauce.
1 Tablespoon Liquid from the Jar of Jalapeño Slices : This brings a bit of tang and heat.
1 pound Ore-Ida Extra Crispy Frozen Fast Food Fries : Perfectly crispy and so easy!
Vegetable Oil for Frying : Use a neutral oil for frying.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Step 1: Mix Up Your Seasoning

First things first, let’s prepare that amazing seasoning mix! In a small bowl, stir together 2 teaspoons of salt, 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and if you’re feeling spicy, a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Give it all a good mix so it’s well combined. It should smell amazing, like a warm hug in spice form!

Step 2: Heat Your Oil

Next, grab a heavy-bottomed saucepan and fill it with vegetable oil, make sure it’s deep enough (at least 3 inches) so your fries can float freely while frying. Heat the oil to 350°F (180°C). If you don’t have a thermometer handy, just drop a little piece of bread in there, if it bubbles up and turns golden brown, you’re ready to fry!

Step 3: Fry Those Fries!

Now comes the fun part! Cook the frozen fries in the hot oil over medium-high heat for about 6 to 8 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Seriously, they’re going to look so good! Once they’re done, move them to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up that extra oil. Let them cool for just a minute patience, my friend!

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Goodness

While your fries are cooling off, let’s whip up that dreamy cheese sauce! Unwrap the 16 slices of American cheese and tear them into smaller pieces. Place the cheese into a microwave-safe bowl along with 1/4 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of that jalapeño juice. Pop it in the microwave uncovered for 30-second intervals stirring in between each interval, until melted and creamy. The cheese should be ooey-gooey and just irresistible!

Step 5: Season Your Fries

Once your fries have slightly cooled, it’s time to season them! In a large mixing bowl, add those crispy fries and sprinkle your homemade seasoning mixture over the top. Toss gently but well until they’re all coated with flavor. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Finally, serve those delicious nacho fries with your cheesy sauce on the side. I love adding a few jalapeño slices on top for a little extra kick too! Trust me, this is where the magic happens. And remember: enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Taco Bell Nacho Fries recipe has become my go-to when I’m in the mood for some comforting late-night food or a craving hits. It’s seriously like magic how something so simple can be so delicious! And I’m a real sucker for those cheesy fries. My kiddos ask for these all the time, and the best part is you can just throw in whatever toppings you have lying around, think sour cream, guacamole, or even ground beef. Enjoying something that’s so customizable makes it feel like a new meal every time!

If you loved this easy Taco Bell Nacho Fries recipe, be sure to check out my Nebraska Runzas, my Arayes Lebanese Stuffed Pita, or my Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad for more family-friendly favorites!

Why This Recipe Works

Quick & Easy

You’re in for a treat, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for those busy weeknights! Seriously, you won’t believe how quick it is!

Comfort Food

These nacho fries are just loaded with tons of flavor and will surely satisfy your cravings. It’s like a cozy blanket on a chilly night, delicious and oh-so comforting.

Customizable

The secret to a delicious nacho fry experience is how customizable this dish is. You can throw in whatever toppings you have or even get creative with your cheese sauce! The possibilities are endless, use leftover chicken, sprinkle over some green onions, or maybe even your favorite salsas. It’s a dream!

Budget-Friendly

This dish uses affordable, everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank. With just some frozen fries and a few pantry staples, you’ve got an awesome meal ready to go. Who doesn’t love an easy budget-friendly recipe?

Crowd-Pleaser

Let me tell you, this will be a hit with everyone in your family! Kids and adults alike, everyone will be reigning in for more fries. You might just find yourself making these nacho fries every week!

Serving Suggestions

Want to make this meal an even bigger hit? Here are some fun serving suggestions!

Add Protein: Toss in some shredded chicken, crumbled ground beef, or even black beans for a heartier meal.
Side Dips: Serve with some salsa, sour cream, or homemade guacamole for dipping. That extra flavor takes it to the next level!
Salads: Serve alongside a light salad for a well-rounded dinner or lunch.

Storage and Reheating

Got leftovers? No problem! You can store any leftover nacho fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: The best way to reheat them is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they’re crispy again, just like new!

Freezer-Friendly

These nacho fries are not exactly freezer-friendly due to their crispy nature. Fries tend to lose their charm when frozen and reheated. However, all your additional ingredients like the cheese sauce and seasoning can be prepared in advance.

Now, there you have it! An incredibly delicious, quick, and comforting Taco Bell Nacho Fries recipe that you can easily whip up at home. Trust me, your family will be raving about it, and who knows, this might just become your go-to recipe, too! Happy cooking! For more Recipes Follow Us in our Pinterest.