If you’re craving those crispy, seasoned fries smothered in cheesy nacho sauce, this copycat recipe will hit the spot—no drive-thru needed!
Ingredients
For the Fries:
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1 lb (450g) frozen steak fries (or fresh-cut russet potatoes)
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2 tbsp vegetable oil (if baking from fresh)
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1½ tsp Taco Bell seasoning (or make your own blend below⬇️)
Homemade Taco Bell-Style Seasoning:
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp cumin
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½ tsp chili powder
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
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1 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for GF)
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¾ cup milk (or unsweetened almond milk)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese for extra creaminess)
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¼ tsp paprika
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¼ tsp garlic powder
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Salt to taste
Optional Toppings:
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Warm nacho cheese sauce (above)
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Diced tomatoes
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Sour cream
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Pickled jalapeños
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Taco Bell hot sauce or Fire sauce
Instructions
1. Make the Fries:
1️⃣ Bake or Air Fry:
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Frozen fries: Cook according to package (usually 20-25 mins at 425°F / 220°C).
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Fresh-cut fries: Toss in oil, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 mins, flipping halfway.
2️⃣ Season: While hot, sprinkle with Taco Bell seasoning and toss.
2. Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
1️⃣ Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Whisk in flour to make a roux (1 min).
3️⃣ Slowly pour in milk, whisking until smooth.
4️⃣ Reduce heat, stir in cheese and spices until melted and creamy (~3-4 mins).
3. Assemble Like Taco Bell:
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Pile fries on a plate, drizzle with cheese sauce, and add toppings.
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Serve immediately for maximum crispiness!
Pro Tips:
🔥 Extra Crispy Fries? Air fry or broil for the last 2-3 mins.
🧀 No Cheese Sauce? Melt Velveeta + a splash of milk for a quick fix.
🌶 Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese.
This tastes even better than the original because you control the cheesiness and spice level!