Taco Bell Nacho Fries (Printer-Friendly)
Crispy fries seasoned with bold spices and paired with a creamy cheese sauce for dipping.
# What You'll Need:
→ Seasoning 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 black pepper
07 -
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
→ Fries
08 -
2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado or light olive oil preferred)
09 -
26 oz bag extra crispy fast food style frozen fries
→ Nacho Cheese Sauce
10 -
15 oz 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, if preheating is required.
02 -
In a bowl, combine paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir to blend thoroughly.
03 -
Place half of the fries into the air fryer basket. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of oil over the fries, then shake the basket to distribute evenly. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mix on the fries and shake again to coat uniformly.
04 -
Air fry the fries for 10 minutes. Remove and shake the basket to turn the fries, then cook an additional 5 minutes or until fries reach desired crispness.
05 -
Repeat the previous steps with the remaining fries, oil, and seasoning. Note the second batch may cook quicker due to residual heat. Adjust salt seasoning to taste after cooking.
06 -
While fries are cooking, combine the Cheez-Whiz, shredded cheddar cheese, and pickled jalapeño juice in a small pot. Warm over medium heat, whisking continuously until smooth and melted. Remove from heat.
07 -
Serve the crispy seasoned fries immediately with the warm nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Adjust cayenne pepper or omit entirely to control heat intensity. Use mild chili powder for a less spicy flavor.
02 -
Air fryer models vary; monitor fries for doneness rather than relying strictly on time.
03 -
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3-4 days. Reheat fries in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-8 minutes and warm cheese sauce in short microwave intervals.