🧀 Taco Bell Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes

Yesss! 🌮🧀 If you’re craving that iconic fast-food flavor, this Taco Bell Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes copycat recipe brings the cheesy, tangy, crispy goodness right to your kitchen. Perfect as a snack, side, or even a base for a loaded potato bowl!

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🍽️ Dish Type: Side / Snack

🍴 Servings: 4

🕒 Total Time: ~40 minutes

🌟 Flavor Profile: Savory, cheesy, spicy

🥔 Texture: Crispy potatoes, creamy sauce

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📝 Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 3 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced (bite-sized)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ tsp salt
• Optional: 1–2 tbsp pickled jalapeño juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for spice

For the Sour Cream Topping:

• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp milk (to thin, optional)

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🔥 Directions:

1. Roast the Potatoes:

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Toss diced potatoes with oil and seasonings.
• Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
• Slowly whisk in milk and stir until thickened.
• Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
• Add jalapeño juice or cayenne if desired.

3. Assemble:

• Pile crispy potatoes into a bowl.
• Drizzle generously with cheese sauce.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream. Add chopped green onions if you’re feeling fancy!

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✅ Tips:

• Air fry the potatoes for extra crispiness! (400°F for 20–25 min)
• Use pepper jack for extra cheese pull and kick.
• Add taco-seasoned ground beef or black beans to make it a meal.

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❓ Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes, you totally can!

🕒 Make-Ahead Tips:

• Potatoes: Roast and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to get them crispy again.
• Cheese Sauce: Make it in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk to loosen it up.
• Sour Cream Topping: Mix ahead and store in the fridge — give it a stir before serving.

✅ Assemble just before serving for the best texture (crispy potatoes + warm cheese = magic).

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✨ Suggested Variations and Toppings

Take these from snack to showstopper with these twists:

🔄 Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
• Loaded Fiesta Potatoes: Add seasoned taco beef, black beans, or chorizo.
• Breakfast Style: Top with scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage.
• Vegan: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan sour cream alternatives.

🧀 Topping Ideas:

• Diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
• Sliced green onions or chives
• Crumbled bacon or tortilla strips
• Guacamole or avocado chunks
• Pickled red onions
• Fresh cilantro or lime juice drizzle

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🍽️ Serving Suggestion

Serve your Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes with:

• Tacos or burritos – like a fun fast food-style combo
• Grilled meats – especially chicken, steak, or shrimp
• Tex-Mex bowls – layer into rice or lettuce bowls
• As an appetizer – in a party platter with dipping sauces
• Or honestly… just grab a fork and eat them straight from the bowl 😄

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