Ingredients

For the Fries:

  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), cut into 1/4-inch fries
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño brine (or 2 tbsp for milder flavor)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder

Toppings:

  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup shredded lettuce (optional)

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Medium saucepan
  • Skillet
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fries

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash and cut potatoes into 1/4-inch fries. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. In a large bowl, toss fries with vegetable oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
  4. Spread fries evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Make the Nacho Cheese Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
  3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened (about 2–3 minutes).
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  5. Add jalapeño brine, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder. Stir until combined. Keep warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes).
  2. Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and 2 tbsp water. Cook for 2 more minutes, stirring until well-coated. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Nacho Fries

  1. Arrange baked fries on a large platter or individual plates.
  2. Drizzle warm nacho cheese sauce generously over the fries.
  3. Sprinkle seasoned ground beef over the cheese.
  4. Top with diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, green onions, and shredded lettuce (if using).

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve immediately while fries are hot and crispy.
  • Pair with a side of guacamole or salsa for extra flavor.
  • For a vegetarian version, swap ground beef with black beans or seasoned tofu.

Tips

  • For extra crispy fries, soak cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning to remove excess starch.
  • Adjust jalapeño brine in the cheese sauce for desired spice level.
  • Store leftover cheese sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Prep Time

  • Prep: 20 minutes
  • Cook: 30 minutes
  • Total: 50 minutes

Servings

  • Serves 4–6

Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell Nacho Fries, loaded with cheesy, spicy goodness!