Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mouthwatering Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries deliver crispy, spice-coated potato magic straight from your kitchen. Mexican-inspired seasoning and cheesy sauce bring restaurant-quality crunch you’ll devour in minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Seasoning Blend:

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper

Nacho Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup nacho cheese sauce
  • 0.25 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions
  • 0.25 cup diced tomatoes
  • 0.25 cup pickled jalapeños

Instructions

  1. Slice russet potatoes into thin, uniform french fry shapes using a sharp knife, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking.
  2. Mix chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish to create the signature seasoning blend.
  3. Create a dredging station with all-purpose flour in one bowl and buttermilk in another, positioning them side by side for easy coating.
  4. Dip each potato fry first into buttermilk, then thoroughly coat with seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess for a light, crispy exterior.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 375°F, carefully maintaining consistent temperature for optimal crispiness.
  6. Fry potato strips in small batches for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve a golden brown and crispy texture, avoiding overcrowding.
  7. Remove fries with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, and immediately sprinkle with additional seasoning blend.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F and arrange crispy fries on a baking sheet, then generously top with shredded cheddar cheese.
  9. Drizzle nacho cheese sauce over the fries and bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts completely.
  10. Garnish with diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, pickled jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes uniformly to guarantee consistent cooking and crispy texture throughout each fry.
  • Experiment with different spice blends like smoked paprika or cayenne for a personalized flavor profile that matches your heat preference.
  • Use a candy thermometer to monitor oil temperature precisely, preventing soggy or burnt fries during the deep-frying process.
  • For a healthier alternative, consider air frying the seasoned potato strips at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, rotating halfway through cooking to achieve similar crispiness.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 580
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 70 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg