Homemade Nacho Fries

4.63 from 24 votes
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When Iโ€™m looking for a quick dinner I can make from leftovers, vegetables, meat, or cheese I need to use up, that I can toss into one simple and crave-worthy dish, there is nothing like Nacho Fries! This dinner is incredibly flexible and adaptable to your familyโ€™s tastes – and easy to serve on chaotic weeknights. Try them with ourย air fryer french friesย for a homemade twist!

fries on a sheet pan with ground beef, cheese, and black olives

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Nacho Fries Recipe

Easy loaded nacho fries are the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods: crispy french fries and flavorful nachos. This dish starts with a generous bed of golden fries, fresh out of the oven or fryer, ensuring a crisp texture that can withstand the hearty toppings to come. These are not your average snack; they’re a canvas waiting to be adorned with mouth-watering ingredients. Layered on top is savory ground beef, seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, paprika, and chili powder, which brings the classic Tex-Mex flair to the ensemble. The ground beef is cooked to perfection, juicy and rich, adding a substantial protein component that makes these fries a satisfying meal in their own right.

The fries and beef create a harmonious base for the gooey, melted cheese that comes next. A generous sprinkling of shredded cheese, preferably a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, is melted until it’s irresistibly stringy and envelops the other elements in a warm embrace. The melted cheese acts like glue, melding the flavors while adding a creamy texture and salty tang. Finally, sliced black olives are scattered on top, providing a contrast with their earthy and slightly bitter notes that cut through the richness of the cheese and beef. The olives are not just a garnish; their unique flavor is a nod to traditional nachos and they bring a welcome pop of color that makes the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. This easy loaded nacho fries platter is casual yet indulgent, perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or any time you crave a cheesy, meaty treat that promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love Nacho Fries

Youโ€™ll love Nacho Fries because they combine the best of both worldsโ€”crispy, seasoned fries and warm, melty cheese. The fries are perfectly spiced, giving them a bold, savory flavor that complements the creamy cheese. Whether youโ€™re enjoying them as a snack, a side, or even a meal (we love doing dinner with these just set in the middle of the table so that everyone can dig in!) Nacho Fries are the ultimate comfort food with a delicious twist. Plus, theyโ€™re perfect for sharing (or not!), making them an irresistible treat youโ€™ll crave again and again.

fries on a sheet pan with ground beef, cheese, and black olives

Homemade Nacho Fries Ingredients

First assemble these ingredients:

  • Frozen fries (1 lb) – Fries offer a savory, golden crunch with a fluffy interior, providing a neutral base that absorbs flavors well.
  • Ground beef (1 lb) – Ground beef has a rich, meaty taste that is hearty and full-bodied.
  • Onion (1) – Onions bring a pungent, slightly sweet, and aromatic quality that intensifies when cooked.
  • Bell peppers (2) – Bell peppers have a sweet, juicy crunch, adding a mild, vegetal flavor to the mix.
  • Taco seasoning – Taco seasoning packs a bold, spicy kick with notes of cumin, garlic, and chili powder.
  • Can jalapenos – Canned jalapeรฑos offer a tangy, pickled heat that infuses a zesty spice.
  • Cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups) – Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, creamy depth that melts into a rich, velvety layer.
  • Tomatoes – Tomatoes contribute a fresh, slightly tangy sweetness and a juicy texture contrast.
  • Green onions – Green onions finish the dish with a mild, oniony bite and a burst of color.

How to Make Nacho Fries

  1. Cook Fries. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lay frozen fries on baking sheet and cook until crispy.
  2. Cook Beef and Veg. While fries are cooking, brown ground beef. Drain fat. Add diced onion and peppers, cook until browned.
  3. Season. Add taco seasoning and water, mix according to package directions.
  4. Assemble. Remove fries from oven when just under crispy. Layer taco mixture over fries. Sprinkle with cheese and jalapeรฑos.
  5. Bake. Return to oven, cook until cheese is melted. Top with tomatoes and green onions, serve.

Tips to Making Nacho French Fries

  • Choose the Right Potato: Opt for russet potatoes for their starchy content, which makes them perfect for frying to achieve that desired crispiness.
  • Cut Evenly: Try to cut your fries in even sizes to ensure they cook uniformly and you donโ€™t end up with a mix of overcooked and undercooked fries.
  • Soak the Potatoes: Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for at least an hour to remove excess starch, which helps in getting them crispy when fried or baked.
  • Dry Thoroughly: After soaking, dry the potatoes completely before cooking to prevent oil splatter and to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Season Well: Donโ€™t be shy with the seasoning. Make sure your fries have ample salt and Tex-Mex spices before and after cooking for a full-flavored base.
  • High Heat for Baking: If youโ€™re baking your fries, use a high oven temperature (around 425ยฐF or 220ยฐC) to get them nice and crispy.
  • Donโ€™t Overcrowd: Whether youโ€™re baking or frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan as this will steam the potatoes instead of crisping them.
  • Use a Rack: If baking, place a wire rack on top of your baking sheet before spreading out the fries. This allows the heat to circulate around the fries, cooking them evenly and making them crispier.
  • Layering: When youโ€™re adding your toppings, do it in layers. A layer of fries, then cheese, then more fries, and more toppings. This ensures that every bite has a good distribution of toppings.
  • Melt the Cheese Properly: If the cheese isnโ€™t melting to your liking in the oven, put it under the broiler for a minute or two at the end of cooking, but watch it closely to avoid burning.
  • Fresh Toppings Last: Add fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, cilantro, or green onions after the fries come out of the oven so they maintain their texture and flavor.
  • Serve Immediately: Loaded fries are best served hot and fresh. The longer they sit, the soggier they can become due to the toppings.
  • Use Sturdy Fries: If youโ€™re worried about sogginess, consider double frying your potatoes or baking them extra crispy to ensure they can hold up to the toppings.
  • Offer Varieties of Heat: Not everyone can handle the same level of spiciness, so consider serving the hot components, like jalapeรฑos or hot sauce, on the side.
  • Creative Toppings: Donโ€™t be afraid to get creative with the toppings. Try adding things like black beans, corn, avocado, or even a scoop of your favorite chili.
  • Prep Ahead: Prep your toppings while your fries are cooking to assemble your loaded fries quickly once theyโ€™re out

Nacho Fries Recipe Variations

  • Buffalo Nacho Fries: Toss the fries in buffalo sauce and top with crumbled blue cheese, shredded chicken, and chopped green onions. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
  • Tex-Mex Nacho Fries: Add a Tex-Mex flair by topping the fries with chili, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and sliced jalapeรฑos. Bake until the cheese is melted, then garnish with fresh cilantro.
  • BBQ Nacho Fries: Drizzle your fries with smoky BBQ sauce and top with pulled pork or shredded brisket, pickled jalapeรฑos, and shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
  • Vegetarian Nacho Fries: Keep it vegetarian by topping the fries with black beans, corn, diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of salsa or chipotle mayo. Add shredded cheese or queso fresco for extra flavor.
  • Greek Nacho Fries: Give your fries a Mediterranean twist by topping them with crumbled feta cheese, chopped cucumbers, diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
  • Breakfast Nacho Fries: Top your fries with scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon or sausage, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of hot sauce or salsa. Add some diced avocado for an extra touch.
fries on a sheet pan with ground beef, cheese, and black olives

What to Serve With Loaded Nacho Fries

Loaded Tex-Mex fries are a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of other foods. Hereโ€™s a list of items that complement them well:

Proteins:

  1. Grilled Chicken: Slices of grilled chicken breast add a healthy protein option.
  2. Pulled Pork: Shredded pulled pork can enhance the Tex-Mex flavors.
  3. Beef Brisket: Tender slices of beef brisket offer a smoky, meaty addition.
  4. Ground Beef: Seasoned ground beef adds a classic taco filling vibe.

Dips & Sauces:

  1. Guacamole: A side of fresh guacamole brings creaminess and richness.
  2. Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy and cool element.
  3. Salsa: Offer a variety of salsas for extra heat and freshness.
  4. Queso Dip: Warm, cheesy queso dip is always a hit with Tex-Mex fries.

Side Dishes:

  1. Coleslaw: A side of tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast.
  2. Cornbread: Warm cornbread complements the spices in the Tex-Mex fries.
  3. Grilled Vegetables: Assorted grilled vegetables add a smoky and healthy option.

Drinks:

  1. Beer: A cold beer pairs well with the spicy and cheesy flavors.
  2. Margaritas: A classic margarita adds a festive touch to the meal.
  3. Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea offers a refreshing beverage choice.

Desserts:

  1. Churros: For a sweet finish, serve churros with chocolate dipping sauce.
  2. Sopapillas: These puffy, fried pastries are a delightful Tex-Mex dessert.
  3. Fried Ice Cream: A unique dessert option that complements the spicy fries.

Toppings:

  1. Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves for an added burst of flavor.
  2. Pickled Jalapenos: For those who like it extra spicy.
  3. Chopped Tomatoes: Fresh chopped tomatoes add a juicy, refreshing element.

Storing Homemade Nacho Fries

Homemade Nacho Fries are best enjoyed fresh, as theyโ€™re crispiest right after cooking. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nacho fries can safely be frozen and reheated – but the texture can break down and be a bit mushy upon reheating, though perfectly safe to eat.

Reheating French Fry Nachos

To reheat, spread the fries on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) for 10-15 minutes, or until theyโ€™re heated through and regain some crispiness. While they wonโ€™t be as crisp as when first made, this method helps restore some of their original texture and flavor.

Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

What type of fries are best for making loaded Tex-Mex fries?

Thick-cut fries or steak fries work best for loaded Tex-Mex fries because they have a sturdy base that can hold the weight of the toppings without getting too soggy.

Can I make loaded Tex-Mex fries ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble and bake your loaded Tex-Mex fries just before serving to ensure the fries remain crispy and the toppings are fresh and hot. You can prep your toppings ahead of time to save on cooking time.

How do I keep my loaded Tex-Mex fries from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure your fries are well-cooked to a golden crispness before adding toppings, and serve immediately after baking with the toppings.

Are loaded Tex-Mex fries gluten-free?

Loaded Tex-Mex fries can be gluten-free if you ensure that the fries and all toppings are free of gluten-containing ingredients. Always check the labels if using packaged products.

What toppings can I put on loaded Tex-Mex fries?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeรฑos, black olives, green onions, black beans, corn, seasoned ground beef or chicken, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.

Can I use sweet potato fries for a healthier version?

Absolutely! Sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative and pair well with Tex-Mex flavors.

Can I make vegan loaded Tex-Mex fries?

Yes, you can make vegan loaded Tex-Mex fries by using dairy-free cheese alternatives, vegan sour cream, and plant-based meat substitutes.

Try these other Tex-Mex recipes you will love:

Also try favorites like Easy Fogo De Chao Brazilian Cheese Bread Copycat Recipe, Easy Keto Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip Recipe, Bacon Wrapped Cheddar and Garlic Jalapeno Poppers, Sweet and Spicy Guinness Snack Mix Recipe, Air Fried Nandos Chicken Wings Recipe, Sweet and Spicy Crispy Baked Chicken Wings, and Crunchy Baked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks.

fries on a sheet pan with ground beef, cheese, and black olives

Loaded Nacho Fries Recipe

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fries on a sheet pan with ground beef, cheese, and black olives

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4.63 from 24 votes

French Fry Nachos

By: Courtney ODell
Servings: 10 people
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 35 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Cheesy nachos with meat and olives baked on a sheet.
Loaded nacho fries – tons of cheesy nacho flavor with crispy baked french fries are the ultimate game day appetizer!

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb bag frozen fries
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • taco seasoning packet
  • small can jalapenos, drained * optional
  • 1 ยฝ cups cheddar cheese
  • tomatoes, diced
  • green onions, diced

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  • Lay frozen fries on baking sheet and cook until crispy.
  • While fries are cooking, brown ground beef.
  • Drain fat.
  • Add diced onion and peppers, cook until browned.
  • Add taco seasoning and water, mix according to package directions.
  • Remove fries from oven when just under crispy.
  • Layer taco mixture over fries.
  • Sprinkle with cheese and jalapeรฑos.
  • Return to oven, cook until cheese is melted.
  • Top with tomatoes and green onions, serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 362kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 19gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 59mgSodium: 460mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Tried this recipe?Mention @sweetcsdesigns or tag #sweetcsdesigns!

About Courtney

Courtney loves to share great wine, good food, and loves to explore far flung places- all while masting an everyday elegant and easy style at lifestyle blog Sweet Cโ€™s Designs. Sweet C's devoted to finding the best food and drinks you'll want to make or find, around the world!

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4.63 from 24 votes (23 ratings without comment)

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13 Comments

  1. Donita says:

    4 stars
    We just made these and they are delicious thanks for sharing recipe

  2. O'Dell says:

    I can see this happening soon, right off the baking sheet. ๐Ÿ™‚ AND we have the same last name ๐Ÿ™‚

  3. Thalia @ butter and brioche says:

    Oh god these nacho fries look so incredibly delicious, comforting and cheesy! Wish I had some to devour right now – it is just what I am craving for!

  4. Jacqui Odell says:

    This looks amazing!! I need to add it to my list of stuff to try.