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Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 10 reviews
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Description

This Copycat Taco Bell Nacho Fries recipe recreates the iconic fast-food snack at home with crispy oven-baked spicy fries topped with savory taco-seasoned ground beef and a creamy, cheesy jalapeño sauce. Finished with fresh pico de gallo, green onions, and a dollop of sour cream, this dish offers a perfect balance of spice, flavor, and texture for a delicious loaded fries experience.


Ingredients

Fries

  • 1 (650g) bag frozen spicy-flavored fries
  • 1 tbsp salted butter
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
  • 2 pickled jalapeno peppers, minced (optional)
  • 1 pinch chili powder
  • Salt, to taste

Ground Beef Mixture

  • 1 lb extra-lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup pico de gallo
  • 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1/4 cup sour cream


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Bake Fries: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Spread the frozen spicy fries evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes on one side, then flip and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until golden and crispy as per package directions.
  2. Cook Ground Beef: While the fries bake, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the extra-lean ground beef and sprinkle with taco seasoning. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Prepare Cheese Sauce: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to form a roux. Stir in the minced pickled jalapenos (if using), chili powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil while whisking continuously to prevent burning. Once boiling, remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  4. Assemble Nacho Fries: Once fries are baked, transfer them to a serving platter. Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the fries, followed by the cooked ground beef. Top with fresh pico de gallo, sliced green onions, and dollops of sour cream. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, spread fries in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet.
  • Pickled jalapenos add a tangy heat; omit if you prefer a milder cheese sauce.
  • You can substitute shredded Monterey Jack cheese for cheddar if preferred.
  • Leftover assembled nacho fries are best reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.