Let’s make Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos!
On days like these—when the spring air feels just right and you’re snapping fun Instagram pics—I always crave something easy and fun, like Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos. I first saw the idea from Julie over at The Little Kitchen. Her recipes are always simple and smart. The mix of Waffle Fry crunch, juicy Brisket, creamy Guacamole, and cool sour cream hits all the right notes. It feels just like a buzzer-beater win during the NCAA tournament.
When I want something filling and crave-worthy, nothing beats crispy fries with savory meat. It’s a go-to for me, especially on football nights. Using Air Fryer French Fries was a game-changer. They turn out golden and crisp every time. One weekend, I made some taco beef, seasoned just right, then layered it with diced tomatoes, a few spicy jalapeño slices, and bright cilantro. I topped it all with my favorite Nacho Cheese Sauce Recipe, the same one I use for Chili Cheese Nachos. And if you ever run out of brisket—it happens!—try Pulled Pork Nachos or even some Ground Beef Taco Meat. Both taste great.
After years of hosting game nights and parties, I learned this: prep ahead. That way, you can relax and enjoy the fun too. I keep a bag of Air Fryer Frozen French Fries ready to go. I make the queso just before guests come, so it’s warm and smooth. On big days, I serve extras like spicy Jalapeño Poppers, and sauces like Avocado Ranch Dressing or Honey Mustard Mayo Dressing. One trip to Terry Black’s BBQ in Austin changed how I see nachos. Their smoky brisket nachos gave me fresh topping ideas—more layers, more flavor, more joy.
Want to make the menu even better? Try Sheet Pan Fajitas for color or a Fajita Bowl for something fresh. Feeling bold? Go with Birria Tacos, cheesy Birria Pizza, or warm Birria Ramen. One time, I made Lamb Birria and everyone was shocked by how good it was. Trust me, when you layer your nachos with hot, tender brisket, melty nacho cheese sauce, and bright toppings, it’s more than a snack. It’s a dish that brings people together—and spreads real joy.
My Inspiration
I grew up in Ohio where being a proud Buckeyes fan is a big deal. We cheer loud every game. During the 2022-23 season of the college football bowl season, I wanted a new snack to share. I learned a different technique to make fries taste better. I used to make your own fries at home, but when lots of guests come, I pick frozen waffle fries. They cook fast and still taste great. I read tips on my About Me page and looked at my old Cast Iron cookbook too. I found out it’s smart to fry them part in the oven, part in the air fryer. This makes the best baked fries crispy and golden. I love customizing each plate so guests can choose their favorite. It is my way to feed people with love. I trust old ideas from places like Taste of Home when I cook for a crowd. I still smile when I hear “Go Bucks!” and pile more nacho toppings on my plate.
What are Nacho Fries?
Nacho Fries are a fun twist where you swap out tortilla chips for crispy cooked French fries as your base instead. Instead of the usual crunch, you get soft fries with a golden outside, making every bite a little different. Think of them like loaded fries but with classic nachos toppings piled high. I first tried this swap at a friend’s party and instantly loved it! It felt just as good as the classic nachos, but a little more filling and fun to eat. Some people even mix a few tortilla chips in for extra crunch, but when I’m making my Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos, I stick with fries all the way because they hold up under all the toppings so well.
What are Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos?
Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos are a fun way to swap waffle fries for tortilla chips as the crispy base for your favorite toppings. Instead of heading to a famous concession stand, you can make this tasty recipe right at home. Thanks to their lattice shape, the fries work like a strong vessel that can scoop up all the good stuff. I load mine with juicy brisket, fresh pico de gallo, tangy pickled jalapeños, smoky bbq sauce, creamy sour cream, fresh cilantro, smooth guacamole, and a few bright limes. Fries are my big weakness, so finding this fun swap was a win for game day. Unlike regular chips, the fries hold more toppings and stay crisp, letting you go big without any mess.
When to Make Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos
Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos are great when you have leftover barbecue from a fun day or a trip to Terry Black’s BBQ in Austin, TX. If you have lots of leftovers from one of the best barbecue spots, you can turn them into a new, tasty meal. When I am hosting friends for game day or potlucks, I like using fresh brisket to make a fast and yummy appetizer or easy snack. Saving some meat from a big barbecue feast makes it simple and fun to cook again. These nachos are also great as finger food because people can grab them and eat with no fuss. One time, after we went to a local spot in Austin, I had extra brisket, and making these nachos was the best way to use it all up!
Substitutions for Brisket
If you don’t have beef brisket ready, there are plenty of easy ways to keep the bold flavors alive without losing the fun. I’ve often swapped in pulled pork after a backyard barbecue, and it still gave that rich, smoky barbecue flavor just like a meal from a top barbecue spot. You can also grab chicken or smoked turkey from your fridge, and it works great too. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try plant-based ground beef or tofu crumbles—both soak up sauce really well. Once, when hosting a last-minute potluck, I tossed together veggies like zucchini, squash, peppers, and seasoned beans, and it made a bright, hearty plate everyone loved. It taught me that you don’t always need meat to nail a good recipe. When picking substitutes, I always think about foods that hold up to sauce and still feel hearty, just like the original brisket does.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re entertaining for a casual game-day, Father’s Day, or festive holidays, these waffle fry nachos are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. I love how this easy recipe comes together with minimal effort, just simple assembling and layering flavors. Here’s why you’ll love it too:
- Homemade queso made fast with a quick roux on the stove—ready in just minutes.
- Tastes like restaurant-quality queso, but made fresh at home.
- Perfect for hosting friends and family with zero stress.
Last year, when I hosted my family, everyone thought I had picked it up from a restaurant because it tasted that fresh! If you want a shortcut to huge flavors without spending your whole day cooking, these nachos are the perfect solution.
Ingredients for Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos
I make these nachos at home. I always start with frozen waffle fries. If I run out, tortilla chips work great too. The star of this meal is juicy cooked brisket or thick-cut brisket, cut into small pieces so every bite has flavor. Once, I had leftover beef pot roast and even cooked beef from dinner. I tossed it in, and it tasted amazing! To get that sweet and smoky taste, I like to add baked beans and a good drizzle of barbecue sauce. Good nachos need melty cheese, so I mix shredded mozzarella cheese, slices of American cheese, and rich Tex-Mex queso from the deli counter or grocery store. This gives it a smooth texture that melts just right.
Here’s everything you’ll need for these hearty nachos:
- Frozen waffle fries or tortilla chips (about 1 package, 20 to 24 ounces)
- Cooked brisket or thick-cut brisket (about 1 lb, diced into small pieces)
- Baked beans (1 can, 16 ounces)
- Barbecue sauce (enough to drizzle all over)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup)
- American cheese (slices that melt easily)
- Tex-Mex queso (1/2 cup, homemade or store-bought)
- Jalapeños (3, sliced)
- Cherry tomatoes and large tomatoes (chopped)
- Red onions (finely chopped)
- Cilantro (chopped)
- Green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- Unsalted butter, yellow onion, and whole milk or 2% milk (if you make your own queso)
- Restaurant-quality queso (optional if you don’t want to make it yourself)
- Reduced-fat sour cream, regular sour cream, or Mexican crema (serve one or more)
- Flavor boosters like more nachos or toppings if you want
- Optional: more cheese or toppings depending on your crowd’s favorites
When you put everything together, start by layering the waffle fries first. Then spread the meat and beans all over. After that, add your cheeses so they melt deep into the layers. Top it with jalapeños, cilantro, and fresh tomatoes. I learned this trick makes the nachos bright, fresh, and full of flavor. It tastes just like it came from a restaurant kitchen!
How to Make Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos
When I get ready to make Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos, the first thing I do is preheat the oven.
Step 1
I always follow the package directions for the waffle fries. It may seem basic, but trust me, this ensures that every fry ends up crispy—not soggy.
Step 2
I spread out the fries evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. That non-stick trick? Total game-changer. Bake them until they’re golden and crispy. And here’s a tip I learned from messing up once: flip the trays halfway through baking. It’s the secret to getting fries that crunch on all sides, not just the top.
While the fries are crisping up, I jump into Step 3
I grab my cast iron skillet or a non-stick skillet, heat it until it’s hot (but not smoking), and start browning the ground beef or leftover beef brisket. I always break the meat into smaller pieces—this helps it brown evenly and cook faster. Then, I make sure to drain the fat—no one wants greasy nachos.
Step 4
I stir in the taco seasoning mixture with a splash of water. Just let it simmer for 2 minutes—it turns into this thick, bold sauce that hugs every piece of meat. And when I’ve got more time, I love slow-cooking beef brisket seasoned with thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, sea salt, pepper, onion powder, and chilli powder. The tenderness and depth of flavor? Totally worth the wait.
Once those waffle fries hit perfect crispiness, it’s time for Step 5
I layer a generous bed of crispy fries onto a large baking tray or a serving platter. This is the base that soaks up all the saucy, cheesy goodness.
Step 6
Next, I pile on the juicy, seasoned meat. If I’ve used brisket, I’ll sometimes drizzle on a bit of honey BBQ sauce for that extra pop of flavor. Sweet and smoky makes all the difference.
Then comes Step 7
Time to sprinkle the cheese—don’t be shy. I go in with shredded cheese, creamy cheese sauce, or homemade smooth queso. My go-to queso trick: I whisk together milk, remaining milk, and melted cheese until it’s velvety. For that deeper flavor, I blend in a spoonful of beef flavored Better than Bouillon. Game changer!
Step 8
Make sure the cheese melts until it’s smooth and stringy. It’s the glue that ties all the flavors together. I’ve learned over time: don’t rush this step—melted cheese makes everything better.
Step 9
Now for the fun part—adding toppings! I toss on chopped onions, crispy white onion, fresh spring onion, juicy tomato, and fiery slices of jalapeños. For a bright, creamy contrast, I mash avocados and stir in fresh salsa to make a quick guacamole. A few dollops on top? Chef’s kiss.
Here’s Step 10
I drizzle sour cream, scatter some cilantro, and get ready to serve. I usually scoop it into shallow bowls or trays—super easy to eat. And from experience, keep extra nachos and toppings close by. They disappear fast—especially during parties!
I remember the first time I made these in a hurry—barely seasoned the meat. Huge mistake. That’s why I always do—
Step 11
Rub seasoning into the meat properly. I use my hands to work the spices in—that’s where the real flavor comes from. And if I’m working with leftover brisket, I reheat it with honey BBQ sauce, or sometimes stir it with extra cheese sauce or creamy melted queso to give it a fresh, rich taste.
Once everything’s prepped Step 12
I pop the loaded nachos back into the oven for another 5–8 minutes, just until the cheese melts again and everything smells absolutely irresistible. I always use tongs to serve them piping hot—and honestly, taking a photo before eating has become tradition. They’re just that photogenic.
Nacho Fries Expert Tip
Get ready for Nacho Fries, I make sure to handle meat the safe way:
- Keep raw and cooked foods separate.
- Always clean your cutting boards, utensils, and dishes with soap and water.
- Wash hands before touching produce or beef.
- If you are making steaks, roasts, or ground beef, use a thermometer.
- Cook to 145°F for medium-rare and 160°F for medium.
- Let it rest for three minutes after cooking.
- Cook to 145°F for medium-rare and 160°F for medium.
For toppings and sauces:
- When using marinades, do not reuse them unless you boil them first.
- If your queso thickened after it cools, just add a splash of milk to thin it.
- Reheat it on the stove or pop it into the microwave.
About prepping in advance:
- Save extra toppings and leftovers by putting them in the fridge fast.
- I like to chop my veggies advance.
- Always prep the day before — it saves so much time on the day of serving.
More Recipes You Might Like
Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos: The Ultimate Loaded Comfort Food
Description
These Brisket Waffle Fry Nachos mix all your favorite comfort foods in one dish. You get crispy waffle fries, tender shredded brisket, and melty cheese. Everything is stacked high and topped with bold flavors like jalapeños, onions, and smooth guacamole.
You can use leftover brisket or cook it fresh. Either way, it tastes great. This dish is a hit at game days, weekend parties, or cozy dinners at home.
Every bite is smoky, savory, and full of cheesy flavor. It’s easy to make and takes less than an hour. You can also add your favorite toppings to make it just right.
Ingredients
PICO DE GALLO:
ADDITIONAL TOPPINGS:
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 497kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 32.7g51%
- Saturated Fat 11g56%
- Trans Fat 0.5g
- Cholesterol 52.5mg18%
- Sodium 588.3mg25%
- Potassium 688.3mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 36g12%
- Dietary Fiber 4.8g20%
- Sugars 6.2g
- Protein 15g30%
- Vitamin A 800 IU
- Vitamin C 12 mg
- Calcium 150 mg
- Iron 2.1 mg
- Vitamin D 30 IU
- Vitamin E 1.5 IU
- Vitamin K 22 mcg
- Thiamin 0.15 mg
- Niacin 3.5 mg
- Folate 45 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1 mcg
- Biotin 5 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1.2 mg
- Phosphorus 180 mg
- Iodine 18 mcg
- Magnesium 45 mg
- Zinc 2.4 mg
- Selenium 15 mcg
- Chloride 200 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- When using my Air Fryer, I never pack too many fries to avoid soggy results.
- Both frozen and french fries cook well, taking about 12 minutes — the quickest way.
- You can customize the taste and texture to your liking.
- Pick the healthiest toppings for a fresh spin.
- If you cant pick, assemble your nachos right before serving.
- Use a generous amount of toppings — that's the way I make my brisket waffle fry nachos amazing every time!
