Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

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Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

If there’s one snack that disappears the moment it hits the table in our house, it’s these Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries. I originally whipped them up on a whim after one of my kids begged for “those spicy cheesy fries from Taco Bell.” We weren’t in the mood for a drive-thru run (plus, I had potatoes to use up), so I decided to recreate them at home. Let’s just say… they vanished faster than I could make another batch. The bold seasoning and crispy exterior are everything you’d expect from the fast-food version—only better because you know exactly what’s going into them. And that nacho cheese sauce? Velvety, gooey perfection.

What I love most about these fries is how easy they are to pull off, even on busy weeknights. Whether we’re hosting game night or just craving something indulgent after a long day, these fries deliver every single time. They’re incredibly family-friendly, yet feel like such a treat for grown-ups too. My husband actually declared these better than the original, which, if you know him, is a pretty big deal.

I find myself reaching for this recipe again and again—not just because of how delicious it is, but because of how happy it makes everyone. You’ll be amazed at how these humble fries can turn into a fast-food-style favorite right in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll want to keep the seasoning mix on hand at all times.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I bake the fries instead of frying them?
Yes! While frying gives them that fast-food crisp, you can absolutely bake them at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crunchy, but still delicious.

What kind of potatoes should I use?
Russet potatoes work best because of their high starch content. They crisp up beautifully and hold onto that seasoning.

Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?
Totally! If you’re pressed for time, just toss frozen fries in the spice mix once they’re cooked and serve with warm nacho cheese.

Is the cheese sauce homemade or store-bought?
I include a quick stovetop nacho cheese sauce in the recipe below, but if you’re in a pinch, a good-quality store-bought one works too.

How spicy are these fries?
They have a mild-to-moderate kick. You can tone it down by reducing the chili powder or amp it up with cayenne.

What You Need to Make Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

For the Fries:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin fries

1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp chili powder

¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

½ tsp salt

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

2 tbsp butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 cup whole milk

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)

½ tsp chili powder

Tools:

Deep frying pan or Dutch oven

Slotted spoon or spider strainer

Medium saucepan (for cheese sauce)

Mixing bowl

Paper towels for draining

How to Make Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Prep the Potatoes: Peel and cut the russet potatoes into thin fries. Soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to remove excess starch.

Make the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne, and salt. Set aside.

Fry the Fries: Heat the oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Drain the potatoes and pat them very dry with paper towels. Fry in batches for 4–5 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Toss in Seasoning: While the fries are still hot, toss them with the seasoning mix in a large bowl until well coated.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and stir until thickened. Add cheese, salt, paprika, and chili powder. Stir until smooth and melted.

Serve: Plate the seasoned fries and serve with warm nacho cheese sauce for dipping.

Tips for Making the Best Nacho Fries

Double-fry for crispier fries: Fry once at 325°F to cook the potatoes through, then again at 375°F for that perfect crunch.

Air fryer option: Cook fries at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked chipotle powder for extra flavor depth.

Make ahead: You can prep the fries and seasoning mix ahead and fry just before serving.

Cheese sauce shortcuts: Use Velveeta or American cheese slices for a smoother melt, especially if serving kids.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These were spot-on! My teens couldn’t stop raving about them. The cheese sauce was next-level!” – Karen M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really tasty, though I baked mine instead of frying. Still turned out great but a bit softer.” – Tony S.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “SO good! I made a double batch and there were no leftovers. Definitely going on our snack rotation.” – Rachel L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavor but next time I’d cut the cayenne for my younger kids. Too spicy for them.” – Amanda J.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Better than Taco Bell! And I love knowing exactly what’s in them.” – Jen W.

Printable Recipe

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