Ever found yourself craving something so indulgent, you can’t help but feel a little guilty? Yeah, that’s where these Ultimate Loaded Nacho Fries with Queso come in—it’s like a fiesta on a plate. Imagine crispy fries smothered in gooey queso, topped with all the fixings you didn’t know you needed. It’s the kind of snack that makes you forget all about your New Year’s resolutions—because, honestly, who needs those when you’ve got this kind of deliciousness calling your name?
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Coat the potato slices in olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on two baking sheets, ensuring they are not crowded. Bake for 15-20 minutes, then turn them over and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Mix together paprika, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, pepper, and salt in a bowl. Toss the baked fries in this seasoning mix until they are well-coated, then adjust the salt to taste.
- To make the queso, gently heat milk and cream cheese in a medium pot over low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and steaming.
- In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheese with flour, onion powder, and garlic powder. Gradually add this cheese mixture to the milk, stirring continuously until the queso becomes smooth and creamy. Stir in the chipotle peppers for a spicy kick.
- Serve the warm queso alongside the seasoned fries for a delicious combination. Enjoy the appetizer while the queso is still warm.
Ingredients
- Potatoes
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Cayenne pepper
- Salt
- Milk
- Cream cheese
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Shredded pepper jack cheese
- Flour
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Chipotle peppers
FAQ
- Can I use store-bought fries instead of making them from scratch?
- Yes, you can use store-bought fries for convenience! Just bake them according to the package instructions and then toss them with the homemade nacho seasoning.
- Is it possible to make the queso non-spicy?
- Absolutely! If you prefer a milder queso, you can simply omit the chipotle peppers or reduce the amount to suit your taste.
- Can I prepare the queso in advance?
- Yes, you can make the queso ahead of time. Just reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s smooth and warm before serving.
- What can I serve with the nacho fries and queso?
- These nacho fries are great on their own, but you can also serve them with toppings like diced tomatoes, green onions, or jalapeños for added flavor.
- How can I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover fries and queso separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat the fries in the oven and the queso on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Tips
- For perfectly crispy fries, ensure the potato pieces are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheets and not overcrowded. This allows them to bake evenly and get that desired crunch.
- When making the queso, gradually add the shredded cheese to the milk mixture and stir continuously. This helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture without any lumps.
- Adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste preferences. You might not need the entire seasoning mix, so start with less and add more if needed, to avoid overpowering the fries.
- Serve the queso warm for the best dipping experience. If it cools down and thickens, gently reheat it to restore its creamy consistency before serving with the fries.
Equipment
- Baking Sheets (if not already owned, as two are mentioned for the recipe)
- Medium Pot (for making the queso)
- Large Mixing Bowl (for tossing the fries with seasoning)
- Cheese Grater (if not using pre-shredded cheese)
- Silicone Baking Mats (optional, to prevent sticking on baking sheets)