Taco Bell Copycat Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes

These homemade Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes are the perfect Taco Bell copycat, featuring crispy roasted potatoes topped with rich nacho cheese, tangy sour cream, pickled jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Simple, quick, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, these potatoes are the ultimate side dish or snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes bring Taco Bell’s popular side right into your kitchen. The roasted potatoes are crispy and seasoned to perfection, while the creamy nacho cheese and sour cream balance out the heat from the jalapeños. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, side dish, or a fun appetizer, this recipe delivers all the comforting flavors you love in under an hour.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup nacho cheese sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• ½ cup sour cream
• Pickled jalapeño slices, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Roast the potatoes for 30–35 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
5. While the potatoes roast, warm the nacho cheese sauce in a small saucepan or microwave.
6. Once the potatoes are cooked, plate them and drizzle generously with nacho cheese and sour cream.
7. Top with pickled jalapeños and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
8. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Calories per serving: 320 kcal

Variations

• Spicy option: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for extra heat.
• Vegetarian option: Top with diced tomatoes, black beans, or guacamole for a more filling version.
• Cheese variation: Use cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor twist.
• Custom toppings: Swap out pickled jalapeños for fresh sliced ones, or add a dollop of guacamole.
• Make it a meal: Serve as a main dish with a protein like grilled chicken or ground beef.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the potatoes will change when reheated.

FAQs

Can I use any kind of potato?

Russet potatoes are ideal for roasting due to their high starch content, which gives them a fluffy interior and crispy exterior. However, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well too.

Can I use homemade nacho cheese sauce?

Absolutely! If you have a homemade recipe, it will elevate the flavor even more.

How do I make these even crispier?

Make sure to coat the potatoes evenly in oil, and try not to overcrowd the baking sheet. Spacing them out helps them crisp up nicely.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can roast the potatoes ahead of time and reheat them before serving, but the cheese sauce and toppings are best added just before eating.

How can I make this spicier?

Add more jalapeños, or drizzle with some hot sauce or spicy salsa to kick up the heat.

What if I don’t have pickled jalapeños?

You can use fresh jalapeños or even another type of pickled pepper, like banana peppers, for a different twist.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this with sweet potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes will add a slight sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spicy toppings.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free sour cream and dairy-free cheese sauce to make this recipe completely dairy-free.

What should I serve with these?

They make a great side dish with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a standalone snack. Pair them with a fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Taco Bell’s Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes are a favorite for a reason, and this homemade version is just as good—if not better! Crispy seasoned potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, cool sour cream, and zesty jalapeños make this dish an irresistible, flavorful treat. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a hearty side dish, these Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes are sure to hit the spot.

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