Ingredients

For the Waffle Fries:

  • 2 large russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs), washed and peeled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (for baking)

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon diced pickled jalapeños (optional, for extra flavor)

Toppings (Optional):

  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons sliced green onions
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup guacamole or diced avocado
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • Waffle maker
  • Mandoline slicer or sharp knife
  • Large bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Oven

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Waffle Fries

  1. Slice the Potatoes: Using a mandoline slicer set to 1/4-inch thickness or a sharp knife, cut the potatoes into thin slices. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking.
  2. Soak the Potatoes: Place the potato slices in a large bowl of cold water and soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps achieve crispier fries.
  3. Dry the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
  4. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Waffle Fries

  1. Preheat the Waffle Maker: Preheat your waffle maker to medium-high heat. Lightly coat the plates with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Form the Waffle Fries: Place 4-6 potato slices (depending on the size of your waffle maker) in a single layer on the waffle maker. Close the lid and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fries are golden brown and crispy. Check for doneness, as cooking times may vary.
  3. Bake for Extra Crispiness: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Transfer the cooked waffle fries to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes to ensure extra crispiness.
  4. Keep Warm: Keep the fries warm in the oven at 200°F (93°C) while preparing the cheese sauce.

Step 3: Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce

  1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Create the Roux: Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
  3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the warmed milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Season the Sauce: Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir in diced pickled jalapeños for extra flavor, if desired. Keep the sauce warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Assemble the Nacho Waffle Fries

  1. Plate the Fries: Arrange the crispy waffle fries on a large serving platter or individual plates.
  2. Add Cheese Sauce: Drizzle or spoon the warm nacho cheese sauce generously over the fries.
  3. Add Toppings: Sprinkle diced tomatoes, green onions, black olives, and cilantro over the top. Add dollops of sour cream and guacamole or diced avocado, if using.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve immediately while the fries are hot and the cheese sauce is gooey. Pair with extra napkins and your favorite beverage!

Tips

  • Make Ahead: You can slice and soak the potatoes in advance. Store them in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
  • Cheese Sauce Storage: Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore smoothness.
  • Customize Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or black beans for a heartier dish.
  • Waffle Maker Alternative: If you don’t have a waffle maker, you can bake the seasoned potato slices on a baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Servings: 4

Enjoy your crispy, cheesy nacho waffle fries!