REVIEW: Taco Bell Nacho Fries

Let’s not beat around the Bell with each other here, alright Hoss?

If you’re a regular reader of a website called The Impulsive Buy, more than once after picking up a bagful of Chalupas and Meximelts from the nearest Taco Bell drive-thru, chances are you’ve probably then driven across the street to the McDonald’s (or whatever burger joint is closest) for an order or two of those famous large fries, hot out the fryer and ready to dip in that quintessential Taco Bell cheese sauce.

I know I have. Like yesterday.

But it’s alright, baby. In the world of fast food, there ain’t no shame in this game. Let’s face it: French fries go great with just about everything, from the finest cuts of aged Wagyu beef to the lowliest no-name prison-approved Nutraloaf. It’s an American classic (yeah, I said it!) and finally, the culinary geniuses at our fave faux-Mex eatery, Taco Bell have come to their senses and are now offering them as part of their beloved dollar menu.

While at first I was mostly excited about all the gas money I’ll be saving, now I know I’ll probably use the aforementioned cash to buy more of these Taco Bell Nacho Fries, because, amigos, its take on papa fritas is the bomb.

Cut thicker than most other fast food chains’ and absolutely coated with dangerously covetous Mexican seasonings (exactly what seasonings and from where in Mexico, we’re never told), these deep-fried darlings are perfectly crispy, surprisingly dense, and have a thick “twice-fried” feel to them that few places know how to get right and if they do, you gotta by a terrible roast beef sandwich to pair with them. I’m looking at you, Arby’s.

Sadly, the serving size is quite small, even for a dollar menu offering, but, truth be told, these fries do manage to pack a lot of flavor in such a singular container, with or without the nacho cheese dipping sauce. So order two servings and everyone’s happy. Additionally, ketchup is available, but — hello Mild, my old friend – that good ol’ reliable T.B. hot sauce works even better as a potato condiment, complementing the mysterious Mexican spices with just enough heat to provide a smooth finish and pleasant enough aftertaste.

In a surprising twist of fate, besides the one buck incarnation of these Nacho Fries, the Bell is also offering them in Supreme ($2.49) and Bell Grande ($3.49) variations. Both use said fries as a bed for nacho cheese, ground beef, tomatoes and sour cream, with the Bell Grande doubling everything for a dollar more. While it’s a completely unnecessary gesture — seriously dudes, the Nacho Fries were good enough — it’s not wholly unwelcomed either. Just don’t look for it to replace the Nachos Bell Grande anytime soon, unless you order both and mix ‘em together, trough style.

That being said, Taco Bell’s Nacho Fries have definitely moved to the top of the “must order” list and deserves to be part of the regular menu, if there is truly any justice in this cold, heartless world. The only problem with that, however, is now when I go to McDonald’s, I’ve gotta go across the street to get my preferred fries from the Bell. What a deliciously wonderful problem that is to have. ¡Cómpralo ya!

(Nutrition Facts – Nacho Fries only – 320 calories, 160 calories from fat, 18 grams of fat, 2 grams of saturated fat, 0 grams of trans fat, less than 5 milligrams of cholesterol, 620 milligrams of sodium, 35 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of fiber, 2 grams of sugar, and 4 grams of protein.)

Purchased Price: $1.00
Size: N/A
Rating: 10 out of 10
Pros: Crunchy, perfectly seasoned, and affordable.
Cons: Small serving size. Might be addictive. Limited time on menu?