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Nacho Fries with Cheese Sauce

Nacho Fries with Cheese Sauce

Nacho Fries with Cheese Sauce feature perfectly crispy golden fries smothered in a rich, creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce, seasoned with chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This addictive snack is quick to make using everyday ingredients, customizable with toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or fresh herbs, and perfect for solo indulgence or sharing at parties and game days.

Ingredients

Fries

  • Frozen French Fries (thick-cut recommended) – quantity as needed

Cheese Sauce

  • Butter – 2 tablespoons
  • All-purpose Flour – 2 tablespoons (or gluten-free flour/cornstarch alternative)
  • Milk or Cream – 1 to 1 1/2 cups
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded – 2 cups
  • Chili Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Garlic Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Smoked Paprika – 1/4 teaspoon

Optional Toppings

  • Fresh Jalapeño slices
  • Diced Tomatoes
  • Chopped Cilantro or Green Onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fries: Cook frozen fries according to package instructions, either baking or frying until golden and crispy. Ensure fries are thoroughly cooked to create a satisfying crunchy base for the cheese sauce.
  2. Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes without browning. Slowly pour in milk or cream while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Then, add shredded cheddar cheese along with chili powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth and velvety.
  3. Combine and Serve: Arrange hot fries on a serving plate. Generously drizzle the warm cheese sauce over them. Add any optional toppings like fresh jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or herbs for added flavor and color. Serve immediately to enjoy the fries while crispy and the cheese sauce warm and gooey.

Notes

  • Choose thicker-cut fries to hold up well under the cheese sauce without becoming soggy.
  • Use freshly shredded cheddar for a smoother melt compared to pre-shredded cheese.
  • Constantly stir the roux and cheese sauce to avoid lumps and ensure silkiness.
  • Keep fries warm before serving so the cheese sauce stays gooey and delicious.
  • Apply cheese sauce in layers when serving large portions to maintain fries’ crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Nacho Fries, Cheese Sauce, Crispy Fries, Snack, Appetizer, Party Food, Quick Recipe, Cheesy Fries