This copycat recipe for Taco Bell Fiesta Potatoes is perfectly seasoned and crispy. Not only is it a tasty way to bring a little bit of fast food magic to your kitchen, but it’s healthier too.
There is nothing that can compare to the chokehold that Taco Bell has on South Asians. Whether it’s the infamous Mexican Pizza or your go-to favorite (mine is the tostada but they don’t make it anymore 🥲), there is just something about the fast food chain that keeps you hooked.
Despite those few times they messed up my order and gave me a soggy Mexican Pizza, I’ll love them til my dying day. It’s one of my favorite “Mexican” fast-food places!
My love for their Fiesta Potatoes was recently reignited, but then they discontinued the menu item, which was such a bummer. Taco Bell’s Fiesta Potatoes are truly known to be a fiesta. As in, they’re a party in your mouth!
With the crispy goodness of the potatoes and the subtle but still satisfying mix of spices, this potato dish is enough to make your mouth water.
Although some locations now have them again, you never want to be subject to the whims of your local TB. I felt like I just couldn’t win at that point, so I started trying out a copycat recipe at home.
And let me tell you: Best. Decision. Ever.
Not only was it more fresh and healthy, but it was out-of-this-world delicious. Besides, what’s better than Taco Bell on demand?
How this Copycat Taco Bell Fiesta Potatoes Recipe is Healthier
Instead of deep frying the potatoes in oil, I air-fried them because it is such a healthier option. Plus, I did not want to fry batches of potatoes and cover them in cheese. I know my stomach would not have been pleased.
I also made the cheese sauce at home, which is so simple and way less greasy. Having more control over the sauce is great because you can actually taste the cheese and adjust it to your liking or dietary needs.
For instance, although I didn’t try it, you could probably make the same thing with a non-dairy cheese brand of your choice and get a similar taste or texture.
Not to mention, when you get to select your produce and spices, you have way more oversight of what ingredients go into this recipe.
Rather than using items that have added preservatives or substances to increase shelf life, you are able to select high-quality ingredients. Plus, you get to choose how much oil, salt, etc. is in your food.
Lastly, you can get creative with these Fiesta Potatoes and make them your own! When you make copycat recipes like this one in your home, there are so many more possibilities. For instance, you could swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or add/subtract spices to your preference. You could make it spicier by adding red chili powder or add any sauces of your choice!
Preheat the air fryer to 400F for 10 mins, while you prep everything. Place the diced potatoes in a bowl, wash and drain them and drizzle a little bit of oil, salt & pepper. Add them to the air fryer and cook for 10-12 mins at 380F.
In a saucepan, melt butter and add the seasonings for the cheese sauce. Cook the seasonings for 30 seconds and add in the milk. Lower the heat and add the slices of cheese. Stir everything until the cheese is fully melted and you have a nice velvety sauce. Turn the stove off and set aside.
Next in a small saucepan, heat the butter and oil, and add all the seasonings for the fiesta potatoes. Cook on low heat for 2-3 mins.
Once the potatoes are cooked, add them to a bowl and drizzle on the melted butter with all the seasonings. Toss and mix all the potatoes into the seasoned butter and transfer into a serving bowl or bowls.
Next add the cheese sauce on top of the potatoes, reheat the cheese sauce if needed. Add some sour cream, jalapeños, scallions and Taco Bell hot sauce! Enjoy!
Just an East/West coast girl living the southern life. I love sharing all my tested and perfected recipes here, along with some travel guides and a little bit of my lifestyle
