Ingredients
Scale
- 1 package of frozen straight-cut fries
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- 1 pound cooked, seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1 batch of homemade or store-bought nacho cheese sauce
- Salsa, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
- Preheat your oven or air fryer according to the instructions on the frozen fries package.
- Spread the fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. If using an air fryer, place them in the basket without overcrowding.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning evenly over the fries and toss to coat them well.
- Bake or air fry according to package instructions, usually around 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 2: Cook the Protein
- While the fries are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat.
- If using ground beef, cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease and season with taco seasoning.
- If using shredded chicken, warm it in a skillet with a little taco seasoning and a splash of water to enhance the flavor. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt a tablespoon of butter.
- Stir in a tablespoon of flour and cook for about one minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in one cup of milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add two cups of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Nacho Fries
- Once the fries are crispy and golden, transfer them to a large serving platter.
- Drizzle the warm cheese sauce generously over the fries.
- Add the seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken on top.
- Garnish with salsa, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.
Notes
- Crispy Fries – For extra crispy fries, cook them in an air fryer at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If using an oven, bake them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to promote even crisping.
- Evenly Melted Cheese Sauce – Keep the heat low while making the cheese sauce to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Stir continuously to maintain a smooth consistency.
- Perfect Seasoning – If you like bold flavors, increase the amount of taco seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Coordinating Cooking Times – Start making the cheese sauce when the fries have about 10 minutes left in the oven. This way, everything will be ready at the same time, ensuring the fries stay hot and crispy when served.
- Reheating Tips – If you have leftovers, store each component separately in airtight containers. Reheat fries in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness, and warm the cheese sauce over low heat with a splash of milk to maintain its creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes