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Skip the drive-through and make crispy bold Taco Bell Nacho Fries right at home This recipe unlocks those craveable fries with a smoky savory spice blend and tastes like you snagged a fresh batch Hot off the pan they bring back every memory of late-night fry runs with friends but even better since your kitchen will smell incredible all evening
I still remember the first time I made a giant tray before movie night My family devoured them faster than any restaurant version and now we make these fries together every rainy weekend
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: Choose large firm potatoes for ideal crispiness and fluffy interiors
- Vegetable oil: Helps the spices stick and gives fries a golden color
- Garlic powder: Delivers deep flavor Choose fresh powdered garlic for best taste
- Onion powder: Brings a little sweetness and rounds out the savoriness
- Smoked paprika: Provides that signature smoky fry flavor Use Spanish smoked paprika if you can find it
- Cayenne pepper: For a spicy kick Go easy if you prefer mild fries
- Salt: Essential for potato flavor Using a fine sea salt helps every bite pop
- Ground cumin: Adds warm earthiness and a subtle depth
- Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish: Makes the fries bright and adds a fresh herbal note Choose perky crisp leaves
- Nacho cheese sauce for dipping: Delivers creamy contrast Make or buy your favorite version
Instructions
- Prep and Cut the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt Set up a large bowl of cold water with a few ice cubes Slice the potatoes lengthwise into even sticks about a half inch thick Submerge the cut fries in the cold water to draw out excess starch which ensures maximum crispiness Soak for at least 30 minutes
- Dry and Season the Fries:
- Drain the potatoes and lay them out on clean kitchen towels Pat each fry completely dry Moisture stops them from crisping Mix together the garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika cayenne pepper salt and cumin in a small bowl Toss dried fries with oil coating evenly and then sprinkle over the spice blend making sure every fry is well coated
- Bake Until Crispy:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit Line a large baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat Arrange the fries in a single layer leaving space between each stick This stops steaming and enhances crispiness Bake in the center of the oven for twenty five to thirty minutes flipping once halfway through Fries are ready when golden brown and the edges are crisp
- Finish and Serve:
- Transfer the hot fries from the baking sheet to a serving platter Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top for brightness Serve immediately with warm nacho cheese sauce on the side for dipping
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Russet potatoes are the real secret here Nothing crisps quite like them I always keep extra in my pantry for emergency fry nights My kids love making their own dipping sauces and every batch reminds us of endless laughter at the table alongside a mountain of fries
Storage Tips
Keep any leftover fries in an airtight container Refrigerate up to three days For best results reheat in a hot oven or an air fryer to bring the crisp back rather than in the microwave
Ingredient substitutions
You can use Yukon Gold potatoes if russets are not handy and still get good results For extra flavor dust finished fries with a little nutritional yeast or swap parsley for chives in the garnish
Serving suggestions
These fries are a total crowd pleaser next to burritos or tacos Stack them high with extra cheese and sliced jalapenos for loaded fry platters or serve alongside crisp cold drinks for game night
Cultural context
Taco Bell Nacho Fries are inspired by Mexican street food but with an all-American fast food twist Their popularity comes from the perfect combo of fries and bold spices plus that cheesy dip
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Once you try homemade Nacho Fries you might decide to skip takeout for good These will turn any casual night into something special
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of potato works best?
Russet potatoes are ideal for crisp fries due to their starchy texture and firm structure.
- → How do you get fries extra crispy?
Soak sliced fries in cold water, dry thoroughly, and don’t overcrowd when frying or baking.
- → What gives the fries their unique flavor?
A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, and salt brings bold flavor.
- → Can these be baked instead of fried?
Yes, toss fries in oil and spices, then bake at high heat on a parchment-lined tray until crispy.
- → What dipping sauce pairs well?
Classic nacho cheese sauce is the popular choice, but spicy ketchup or chipotle sauce also work well.