Taco Bell Nacho Fries (Printer-Friendly)
Crispy seasoned fries served with a smooth cheese sauce, perfect as a snack or side for any meal.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Spice Blend
01 -
1 tablespoon paprika
02 -
2 teaspoons kosher salt
03 -
1 teaspoon chili powder
04 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
06 -
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
07 -
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
→ Fries
08 -
26-ounce bag extra crispy fast food style frozen French fries
09 -
2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as avocado or light olive oil)
→ Nacho Cheese Sauce
10 -
15-ounce jar Cheez-Whiz cheese dip
11 -
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
12 -
1/4 cup pickled jalapeño juice (adjust to taste)
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Preheat a 6-quart basket air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes, or skip if your appliance does not require preheating.
02 -
In a bowl, combine paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using; mix thoroughly and set aside.
03 -
Place half of the fries in the air fryer basket. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of oil over the fries and toss or shake to coat evenly. Sprinkle half of the seasoning blend over the fries and toss again to ensure even coverage.
04 -
Air fry for 10 minutes at 400°F. Shake the basket to redistribute fries, then cook an additional 5 minutes or until fries achieve desired crispness.
05 -
Repeat seasoning and cooking steps with remaining fries, oil, and seasoning blend. Note that cooking time may be shorter due to residual heat. Add extra salt if desired after cooking.
06 -
While fries are cooking, combine Cheez-Whiz, shredded cheddar cheese, and pickled jalapeño juice in a small pot. Heat over medium flame, whisking continuously until smooth and all components melt together.
07 -
Remove cheese sauce from heat and serve immediately alongside the freshly cooked seasoned fries for dipping.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Use a basket style air fryer for best results and avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure fries become crispy. Adjust seasoning heat level by omitting cayenne pepper if preferred mild flavor.
02 -
Leftover fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat fries in air fryer at 350°F for 5-8 minutes and warm the cheese sauce in short microwave intervals.