You know those spicy, cheesy nacho fries from the drive-thru? So good.
But also: greasy, heavy, and leave-you-regretting-it-later kind of good.

That’s why I made this Homemade Nacho Fries with Sauce Recipe — all the bold flavor, none of the regret. These fries are oven-baked (or air-fried!), seasoned with smoky, spicy goodness, and served with a creamy homemade nacho cheese sauce made from real ingredients. Perfect as a side, game-day snack, or Friday night craving fix.

This is Healthy Fast Food at Home done right: indulgent and energizing.

Ingredients:

For the fries:

• 3 medium russet potatoes, cut into thin fries

• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp salt

• Pinch of cayenne (optional)

For the clean nacho cheese sauce:

• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)

• ½ cup shredded cheddar or dairy-free cheese

• 1 tsp tapioca starch or cornstarch (for thickening)

• ¼ tsp turmeric (for color, optional)

• Pinch of salt and pepper

• Optional: splash of hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Prep the fries
Soak cut potatoes in cold water for 20–30 minutes to remove starch. Drain and pat dry thoroughly.

2. Bake or air fry
Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss fries in oil and spices, then spread in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. For air fryer: cook at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.

3. Make the cheese sauce
In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, yogurt, and tapioca starch over medium-low heat. Stir continuously until it begins to thicken (about 3–4 minutes).
Add cheese, turmeric, salt, pepper, and hot sauce if using. Stir until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.

4. Serve hot
Pile fries on a plate and drizzle with cheese sauce — or serve sauce on the side for dipping!

Sarah’s Tips:

• Want it dairy-free? Use a plant-based cheese and yogurt — it melts beautifully.

• Add toppings: Diced jalapeños, green onions, or crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

• Meal prep trick: Make the cheese sauce ahead and reheat gently on low.

• No russets? Sweet potatoes or gold potatoes work great too.

Flavorful Conclusion:

These Homemade Nacho Fries with Sauce are bold, crispy, and seriously addicting — without the deep-fryer or processed cheese packet. It’s fast food made better, with real ingredients and that cheesy-spicy kick you’ll want on repeat.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):

• Calories: 320

• Protein: 10g

• Carbs: 34g

• Fat: 16g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 2g