Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes are a crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that makes the perfect side or snack. Inspired by Taco Bell’s famous recipe, these golden potatoes are smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with tangy sour cream.
Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, or just craving a delicious comfort food, this easy homemade version will be a hit
How to Make Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes?
These crispy potatoes are seasoned to perfection, baked or fried, and then topped with a rich nacho cheese sauce and cool sour cream. They’re an easy and flavorful addition to any meal!
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, diced into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cheese Sauce:
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Dice potatoes into bite-sized cubes and pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Spread potatoes evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2: Bake the Potatoes
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- For an extra crispy texture, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt Velveeta cheese with milk.
- Stir continuously until smooth and creamy.
- Add chili powder and hot sauce for extra flavor.
4: Assemble & Serve
- Transfer the crispy potatoes to a serving dish.
- Drizzle the warm cheese sauce generously over the potatoes.
- Add a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Storage & Shelf Life
Refrigeration:
- Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until warm and crispy.
Freezing:
- Freeze cooked potatoes in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat directly from frozen in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for best results.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish:
- Top with extra shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce for spice lovers.
Pairing Options:
- Serve as a side dish with tacos, burritos, or grilled chicken.
- Enjoy with a fresh avocado dip or salsa for extra flavor.
Portion Guide:
- 1 person: About 1 cup of cheesy fiesta potatoes
- 4 people: Full recipe as listed above
Allergy Guide
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and sour cream substitutes.
This Cheesy Fiesta Potatoes recipe is the ultimate snack or side dish, loaded with crispy potatoes, gooey cheese sauce, and a cool sour cream topping. Whether you’re recreating your favorite fast-food treat or just craving a cheesy delight, this homemade version is sure to impress!
Emily is a devoted wife, mother, and passionate home cook who finds joy in creating comforting meals straight from her kitchen. When she’s not busy managing the household or helping out on her husband’s farm, she spends her time baking delicious treats that have become a favorite among friends and neighbors. Emily believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a freshly baked pie or a hearty home-cooked dinner, her love for cooking shines through in every dish she makes.