Introduction
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these irresistible Air Fryer Loaded Nacho Fries! Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, enjoying a movie night at home, or just craving a late-night treat, these nacho fries are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful.
By using an air fryer, we achieve that golden-brown crispiness with less oil, making these fries a slightly healthier option while still delivering on taste. Topped with melted cheese, zesty jalapeños, savory ground beef (or your favorite protein), and a drizzle of cool sour cream, each bite is a fiesta of flavors that will leave you coming back for more.
So grab your air fryer and your favorite toppings, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
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- Begin by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly, then dry them with a clean towel.
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- Cut the potatoes into thin fries, approximately 1/4 inch thick for even cooking.
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- In a large bowl, toss the cut fries with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
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- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
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- Once preheated, place half of the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
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- Cook the fries in the air fryer for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown and crispy.
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- While the first batch cooks, prepare the second by repeating steps 5-6 with the remaining fries.
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- After the second batch is done, remove all fries from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter.
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- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot fries, then add the crumbled bacon and jalapeños on top.
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- Return the loaded fries to the air fryer for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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- Carefully remove the platter from the air fryer and drizzle sour cream over the loaded fries. Top with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired.
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- Serve immediately and enjoy your cozy Air Fryer Loaded Nacho Fries!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Frozen French Fries: Choose your favorite style (crinkle-cut, straight, or shoestring) for the base of the nacho fries.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works wonderfully for that gooey, melty texture.
- Cooked Ground Beef or Turkey: Seasoned with taco seasoning for that classic nacho flavor.
- Refried Beans: Optional, for added creaminess and texture.
- Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled, sliced for a spicy kick.
- Sour Cream: For drizzling on top.
- Guacamole: A creamy topping to complement the flavors.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh garnish.
- Diced Tomatoes: Fresh or canned for a burst of color and flavor.
- Black Olives: Sliced, for an extra layer of flavor.
Feel free to customize with other toppings like avocado, salsa, or hot sauce!
Baking Process for Air Fryer Loaded Nacho Fries
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Prep the Potatoes: Start by washing and peeling your potatoes, making sure to remove any blemishes. Cut them into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick, to achieve that ideal fry texture. For an even crispier outcome, soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch, allowing the fries to turn out crispier.
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Dry the Fries: After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing moisture helps achieve that perfect crunch when air frying.
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Season the Fries: In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried potato strips with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each fry is evenly coated. Add your desired seasonings—sea salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika work wonders for flavor. Mix well to ensure every fry is seasoned.
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Before adding the fries, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating guarantees that the fries start cooking immediately, which is key to achieving a crispy exterior.
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Air Fry the Fries: Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. Air fry the fries for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them for the last few minutes to reach your desired crispness.
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Add the Toppings: Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and arrange them on a serving plate. Top with your favorite nacho toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, and guacamole. Consider adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for an extra protein boost.
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Final Air Fry: Return the loaded nacho fries back to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gooey.
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Serve Immediately: Once the cheese is melted to your liking, remove the loaded nacho fries from the air fryer, garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired, and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy. Enjoy your delightful creation straight from the air fryer!
Serving Suggestions
To make your Air Fryer Loaded Nacho Fries an unforgettable dish, consider these serving suggestions:
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions over the top just before serving for an added burst of freshness.
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Dipping Sauces: Serve with an assortment of dipping sauces like creamy ranch, zesty salsa, or spicy jalapeño dip to cater to different taste preferences.
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Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, offer additional shredded cheese on the side, such as pepper jack or Monterey jack, that guests can melt over their fries.
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Add Protein: Incorporate cooked and seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or pulled pork on top for a heartier meal.
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Creamy Toppings: Drizzle with avocado crema or a dollop of sour cream for a rich, creamy contrast to the crispy fries.
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Squeeze of Lime: A squirt of fresh lime juice elevates the flavor and adds a zesty kick that is especially refreshing!
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Serve as a Meal: Make it a complete meal by pairing the nacho fries with a side salad or coleslaw for a nice balance of textures.
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Game Day Essential: Present the loaded fries as part of a game day spread along with other snacks like wings, sliders, and veggie platters for a crowd-pleasing buffet.
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Margarita Pairing: Complement your nacho fries with a refreshing margarita or a tangy michelada to enhance the fun and flavor of the meal.
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Customize for Personal Taste: Set up a nacho bar where guests can customize their fries with a variety of toppings like pickled jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or olives to suit everyone’s tastes.
With these serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Loaded Nacho Fries will be the star of the table, perfect for parties, movie nights, or any casual gathering!
Conclusion
Incorporating the air fryer into your culinary repertoire opens up a world of flavor and convenience, and these Air Fryer Loaded Nacho Fries are a perfect testament to its versatility. With crispy, golden fries topped with gooey cheese, zesty jalapeños, and a medley of your favorite toppings, this dish is bound to please a crowd or satisfy your late-night cravings.
Not only are these nacho fries quick and easy to prepare, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried options, without sacrificing that delightful crunch and mouthwatering taste we all love. Feel free to customize your toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs, making these nacho fries a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy.
So, gather your friends and family, whip up a batch of these delicious Air Fryer Loaded Nacho Fries, and watch them disappear in no time. Enjoy your flavorful journey into the world of nacho goodness!
