For the crispiest fries, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning. Toss them evenly with oil before adding the spice mix so it sticks better. Stir your cheese sauce constantly over low heat to keep it smooth and creamy.
Ingredients
1 lb frozen French fries
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Nacho Cheese Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 425°F or heat your air fryer to 400°F. Toss the frozen fries with vegetable oil, then sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Spread fries in a single layer on a baking sheet or place in air fryer basket. Bake or air fry for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
While fries cook, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 3–5 minutes. Lower heat and stir in shredded cheese, salt, and chili powder until melted and smooth.
Serve fries hot with warm nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
For variations, top the fries with seasoned beef, sour cream, and jalapeños for loaded nacho fries. You can also use sweet potato fries or waffle fries for a fun twist, and add extra spice with hot sauce or chipotle powder in the cheese sauce.