Nacho Fries Taco Bell: Are They Back & Worth the Hype?

Nacho Fries Taco Bell: Prepare to have your taste buds tantalized! Remember the frenzy when Taco Bell first introduced Nacho Fries? The internet exploded, and for good reason. These aren’t just fries; they’re a culinary experience, a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your palate. I’m thrilled to share a fantastic copycat recipe that lets you enjoy this iconic fast-food treat right in the comfort of your own home.

While Taco Bell’s menu is constantly evolving, their ability to create crave-worthy combinations is undeniable. The introduction of Nacho Fries Taco Bell tapped into our collective love for both crispy fries and the cheesy, spicy goodness of nachos. It’s a brilliant fusion that’s both familiar and exciting. The cultural significance lies in its accessibility and affordability, making it a beloved indulgence for people of all ages and backgrounds.

What makes these fries so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of crispy, seasoned fries, the warm, gooey nacho cheese sauce, and the optional kick of jalapeños. The texture is a delightful contrast – the satisfying crunch of the fries against the smooth, creamy cheese. Plus, let’s be honest, they’re incredibly convenient! But with this recipe, you can elevate the experience, using fresh ingredients and customizing the toppings to your liking. Get ready to recreate this fast-food favorite and impress your friends and family!

Ingredients:

• For the Fries:
• 2 large russet potatoes, peeled
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
• For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeño juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Seasoned Ground Beef:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tbsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ½ tsp oregano, ½ tsp cayenne pepper, salt and pepper to taste)
• ½ cup water
• For the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce:
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste
• For the Toppings:
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Diced tomatoes
• Diced green onions
• Pickled jalapeños (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Guacamole (optional)

Preparing the Fries:

1. Prepare the Potatoes: First, peel your russet potatoes. Then, cut them into fry shapes – about ½ inch thick. Try to keep them relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.
2. Rinse the Fries: Place the cut fries in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Rinse them thoroughly, changing the water a few times, until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps them get crispy.
3. Parboil the Fries (Optional but Recommended): This step is optional, but it really helps achieve that perfect Taco Bell fry texture. Place the rinsed fries in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the fries are slightly softened but not fully cooked. Drain the fries well and let them cool completely. This can be done ahead of time.
4. Season the Fries: In a large bowl, toss the fries with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.
5. First Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 325°F (160°C). Fry the fries in batches for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and slightly softened. Don’t overcrowd the fryer, or the oil temperature will drop, and the fries will be soggy. Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain.
6. Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the fries again in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. This second fry is what gives them that perfect crunch! Remove the fries with a slotted spoon and place them back on the wire rack to drain.

Making the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

1. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture forms a smooth paste (a roux). This will help thicken the cheese sauce.
2. Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, making sure to incorporate it fully into the roux before adding more. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and there are no lumps.
3. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Season the Sauce: Stir in the pickled jalapeño juice, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you want a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
6. Keep Warm: Keep the nacho cheese sauce warm over low heat while you prepare the other components. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top. You can also keep it warm in a slow cooker on the warm setting.

Preparing the Seasoned Ground Beef:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain the Fat: Once the ground beef is fully browned, drain off any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add the Taco Seasoning: Add the taco seasoning (or your homemade blend) to the ground beef and stir well to coat.
4. Add Water and Simmer: Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated and the beef is nicely seasoned. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Making the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, finely chopped pickled jalapeños, pickled jalapeño juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and season with salt to taste. If you want a spicier sauce, add more cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños.
4. Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the sauce and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assembling the Nacho Fries:

1. Arrange the Fries: Spread the crispy fries on a large platter or individual plates.
2. Top with Cheese Sauce: Generously drizzle the warm nacho cheese sauce over the fries. Make sure every fry gets a good coating of cheesy goodness!
3. Add the Ground Beef: Spoon the seasoned ground beef over the cheese-covered fries. Distribute it evenly.
4. Drizzle with Jalapeño Sauce: Drizzle the creamy jalapeño sauce over the ground beef and cheese sauce. You can use a squeeze bottle for a neat presentation.
5. Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, and diced green onions over the top. Add pickled jalapeños if you like extra heat.
6. Serve Immediately: Serve the nacho fries immediately while they are hot and the cheese is melted. Offer sour cream and guacamole on the side for dipping, if desired. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary adventure, a chance to recreate a beloved fast-food fantasy right in your own kitchen. I truly believe this Nacho Fries Taco Bell inspired creation is a must-try for anyone who craves that perfect blend of crispy, savory, and cheesy goodness. The combination of seasoned fries, warm nacho cheese, tangy tomatoes, and creamy sour cream is simply irresistible. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. But the best part? You’re in control! Feel free to customize this recipe to your heart’s content. Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the fry seasoning or a few slices of jalapeño to the toppings. Craving a heartier meal? Ground beef, shredded chicken, or even black beans would be fantastic additions. For a vegetarian option, consider using seasoned lentils or crumbled tofu. The possibilities are endless! Beyond the basic recipe, think about serving these loaded fries in different ways. They make an amazing appetizer for game night, a fun and casual dinner, or even a late-night snack. Imagine serving them in individual bowls for easy sharing, or piling them high on a platter for a truly impressive presentation. You could even create a “Nacho Fries Bar” with a variety of toppings, allowing everyone to customize their own perfect plate. Think shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, guacamole, different types of cheese, and various hot sauces. The sky’s the limit! And don’t forget the dipping sauces! While the nacho cheese provides plenty of flavor, a side of creamy avocado ranch, spicy chipotle mayo, or even a classic salsa can take these fries to the next level. Experiment with different combinations to find your personal favorite. I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a fun, easy, and incredibly satisfying way to enjoy a classic fast-food favorite without ever leaving your home. Plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing exactly what ingredients are going into your food. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or fire up your air fryer!), and get ready to experience the magic of homemade Nacho Fries Taco Bell style. I promise, you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? What variations did you make? What toppings did you add? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I’m always eager to see your culinary creations and learn from your experiences. Let’s build a community of nacho fry enthusiasts and share our love for this delicious dish! Happy cooking (and eating)! I can’t wait to see what you create!

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