Cheesy Nacho Fries

Name: Cheesy Nacho Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce; 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños; 1/4 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; Sour cream for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I first made these Cheesy Nacho Fries, I knew I had stumbled upon the ultimate comfort food. The combination of crispy fries, gooey cheese, and zesty toppings created an explosion of flavors that I couldn’t resist. Each bite is like a party in my mouth, and I love how easy it is to whip up a large batch for friends or family gatherings. Whether you're watching a game or just treating yourself, these fries are the perfect indulgence to share and savor.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-22T09:57:27.419Z

Making Cheesy Nacho Fries was a delightful experience, especially when I experimented with different toppings. I discovered that adding jalapeños gives the dish a spicy kick, which perfectly complements the creamy cheese. In my first attempt, I skipped the cheese sauce and used shredded cheese instead, but found it melted better when I combined both for an extra cheesy goodness.

What I love most about this dish is how customizable it is. I'm always trying new toppings like avocado or black olives, which add textures and flavors. I often drizzle some sour cream or finish it off with fresh cilantro. Each time I make it, it brings a new flavor experience!

        Why You'll Love These Fries
        Crispy fries topped with rich, melted cheese
Customization options galore for every palate
Perfect for game days or casual gatherings

      

The Art of Frying

Achieving the perfect fry is all about technique. Start by cutting your potatoes into uniform pieces, ideally about 1/4-inch thick, to ensure even cooking. Soaking them in cold water for at least 30 minutes can help remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. After soaking, make sure to dry the fries thoroughly before tossing them with olive oil and salt, as moisture can prevent them from becoming crispy.

When baking the fries, spread them out on the baking sheet to prevent them from steaming. I recommend using a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to help promote browning. If you overcrowd the pan, you'll end up with soggy fries instead of the desired crunch. Flipping them halfway through the baking process is crucial for even cooking and browning.

Cheese and Toppings Balance

The combination of cheese plays a vital role in the flavor profile of Cheesy Nacho Fries. Opt for sharp cheddar for a robust flavor, while the nacho cheese sauce adds creaminess and a slight spice kick that makes these fries irresistible. To prevent clumping, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly and allow it to melt uniformly in the oven. Keep a close eye during the final bake to avoid overcooking, which can make the cheese greasy or overly tough.

Customization is key when it comes to toppings. Feel free to experiment with different combinations such as black olives, guacamole, or even diced avocado for creaminess. You can also swap jalapeños for pickled banana peppers if you prefer a milder taste. Think outside the box—crushing up a few tortilla chips on top before serving can add an exciting crunch!

Ingredients

For the Nacho Fries

2 large potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños
1/4 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Sour cream for serving

Feel free to adjust the toppings based on your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Fries

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes into thin fries and toss them with olive oil and salt. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Fries

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Add the Cheese and Toppings

Remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over them. Drizzle the nacho cheese sauce on top, and add jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and green onions.

Final Bake

Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove and let cool slightly.

Serve

Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on the side and enjoy your Cheesy Nacho Fries!

Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy fries, soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that reheating fries can sometimes lead to a loss of texture. To revive their crispiness, try reheating them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are spread out on a baking sheet to prevent steaming.

For best results, avoid microwaving your fries as this often leads to sogginess. If you plan on making a large batch, consider freezing the uncooked fries after cutting and soaking them. Spread them out on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them directly from frozen; just increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for gatherings. For every additional person, simply add an extra potato and adjust the cheese toppings accordingly. Remember that more fries might need a slightly longer cooking time in the oven—watch for that golden finish as your indicator of doneness.

If you want to keep the flavor dynamic while scaling up, consider preparing a variety of toppings in small bowls, allowing guests to customize their own fries. This way, everyone can enjoy their ideal combination, whether that’s extra jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. It’s a fun way to engage everyone, too!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fries?

Yes, frozen fries can be used for convenience. Just follow the package instructions for baking and then add cheese and toppings.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute regular cheese with vegan cheese and skip the sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, black olives, or even pulled pork for a heartier dish!

→ Can I prepare the fries in advance?

Yes, you can prep the fries and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just make sure they're well-coated with oil.