Homemade Taco Bell Nacho Fries by Myriadrecipes Instagram

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs frozen french fries
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1.5 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F). Place the frozen French fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy.
2. While the fries cook, prepare the nacho seasoning: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well
3. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. Drain any excess grease. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the prepared nacho seasoning and 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly.
4. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Keep warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally.
6. Once the fries are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Immediately sprinkle with the remaining nacho seasoning (about 1-2 tablespoons, or to taste) and toss to coat evenly
7. Assemble the nacho fries: Arrange the seasoned fries on a serving platter. Spoon the seasoned ground beef over the fries, followed by the diced tomatoes. Drizzle generously with the warm cheese sauce, then add a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired, and serve immediately.