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Air Fryer Taco Bell Copycat Nacho Fries

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There is something magical about a massive plate of loaded French Fries; my kids love these when they get them at Taco Bell, so armed with my air fryer, I made my version of Air Fryer Taco Bell Copycat Nacho Fries.

Everyone loves loaded French Fries. Who wouldn’t? They have every ounce of goodness, loaded with hearty ground beef smothered in cheese and vegetables. It’s a meal on a plate.

So, forget about Taco Bell and make this healthier copycat version with your air fryer. They will crisp up deliciously and provide your entire family with a great lunch, dinner, snack, or appetizer!

Start this recipe by making the absolute best Air Fryer French Fries, complete with Homemade Fry Seasoning and everything.

What Are Nacho Fries?

Nacho Fries are a popular menu item offered by various fast food chains, notably Taco Bell. They typically consist of seasoned French fries topped with seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and other toppings commonly found on nachos. This creates a fusion of flavors reminiscent of traditional Mexican cuisine with a twist.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

It captures the iconic flavors of Taco Bell’s nacho fries while being homemade and healthier.
By air frying instead of deep-frying, you achieve the same crispy texture with less oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
It’s customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasoning and toppings according to your preference, whether you prefer extra spice or a milder flavor.
Making them at home saves you time and money, as you can enjoy this beloved fast food favorite without leaving the comfort of your kitchen.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Taco Bell Copycat Nacho Fries

To recreate the beloved Taco Bell nacho fries in your air fryer, you’ll need simple ingredients to deliver that irresistible flavor and crispy texture.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

Frozen crinkle-cut french fries: Serve as the base for your loaded nacho taco fries, providing a crispy and satisfying foundation.
Ground beef: Adds savory flavor and protein to the dish, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
Onions: Infuse the dish with aromatic flavor and texture, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Taco seasoning: Seasoning the ground beef with taco seasoning adds a delicious and authentic Mexican-inspired flavor profile.
Shredded Mexican cheese: Melts beautifully over the fries and beef, providing gooey, cheesy goodness with each bite.
Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color, sweetness, and crunch to the dish, complementing the savory elements.
Scallions: Provides a mild onion flavor and a fresh, green garnish for added visual appeal.
Jalapeno: Offers a spicy kick to the dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their nacho taco fries.
Salsa: Adds zesty, tangy flavor and juicy texture to the dish, serving as a vibrant topping.
Sour cream: Balances the spiciness of the jalapenos and salsa with its calm, creamy texture, creating a delicious contrast.

How To Make Taco Bell Copycat Nacho Fries In Air Fryer

Here are the step-by-step directions for making Taco Bell Loaded Nacho Fries Recipe in your air fryer.

Add your frozen crinkle-cut french fries into the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 400 degrees F, air fryer setting, for 10-14 minutes. Shake the basket several times during the cooking process.

Then remove and place on a baking tray (I used my cast iron skillet) and sprinkle the shredded cheese. Place in the air fryer basket or oven until the cheese is melted.

Sprinkle the cooked taco meat on top, then add the sliced red bell peppers. Garnish with your favorite toppings: scallions, jalapenos, sour cream, and salsa.

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Customize your toppings to suit your taste preferences. Try different cheeses and veggies, or add guacamole or black beans for flavor.
If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder over the fries before adding the toppings.
Serve your nacho fries with salsa, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor.

Faq’s

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen fries? Yes, you can! Slice the potatoes into fry shapes and parboil them for a few minutes before air-frying.

How can I make these nacho fries vegetarian? You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or simply skip it altogether and load up on more veggies and cheese.

Can I make these ahead of time? While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can prepare the components and assemble them just before serving them for the best texture and taste.

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Equipment Used

GoWISE USA 1700-Watt 5.8-QT 8-in-1 Digital Air Fryer with Recipe Book, Black

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