Craving a ridiculously delicious and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these incredible Nacho Cheese Fries! This recipe takes the classic comfort food of fries and elevates it to a whole new level of cheesy, spicy, and utterly addictive goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a fun weekend treat, these nacho cheese fries are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to dive into a world of flavor!
Ingredients:
- For the Fries:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup chopped pickled jalapeños (optional, for extra spice)
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Topping:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- Your favorite toppings (e.g., diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Fries
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cut potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated.
- Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 2: Making the Nacho Cheese Sauce
- While the fries are baking, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeños (if using), chili powder, and garlic powder. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assembling the Nacho Cheese Fries
- Once the fries are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish.
- Pour the nacho cheese sauce generously over the fries.
- Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
- Add your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, sour cream, or guacamole.
Tips for the Best Nacho Cheese Fries:
- Soaking the fries: Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before baking helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the fries are in a single layer to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the spice: If you prefer a milder cheese sauce, omit the jalapeños or reduce the amount of chili powder.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and spices to create your perfect nacho cheese fries.
Variations:
- Spicy Nacho Cheese Fries: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Nacho Cheese Fries: Use your favorite vegetarian toppings such as black beans, corn, or bell peppers.
- Loaded Nacho Cheese Fries: Add bacon bits, pulled pork, or ground beef for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on toppings and portion size)
This recipe is a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a comforting meal without sacrificing flavor. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy yet incredibly tasty dinner. Enjoy!