Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Nacho Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickled jalapeños (optional)
- Salt to taste
For Topping
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Soak the diced potatoes in cold water for 20 minutes. Drain and pat completely dry.
- Toss the potatoes with vegetable oil, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the potatoes into a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flip the potatoes, then bake another 15 to 20 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until slightly thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, Monterey Jack, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and jalapeños until smooth.
- Place the hot potatoes on a serving plate.
- Spoon the warm nacho cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Top with sour cream, green onions, and optional garnishes.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Soaking the potatoes helps create a crispier texture.
- Dry the potatoes thoroughly before seasoning.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Air fry the potatoes at 400°F for 18 to 22 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Add seasoned ground beef or black beans to turn this side dish into a complete meal.
- Leftover cheese sauce can be thinned with a splash of milk when reheating.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian