Name: Easy Cheesy Beef Nachos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade mix); 1/4 cup water; 8 oz tortilla chips; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional); 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional); 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional); 1/2 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for serving

Crispy tortilla chips layered with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings make this nacho recipe a go-to for game nights, casual dinners, or anytime I’m craving something hearty and satisfying. It’s simple, customizable, and always a hit.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade mix)

1/4 cup water

8 oz tortilla chips

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)

1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)

1/2 cup diced tomatoes

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for serving

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.

I add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Then, I stir in the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, and brown it fully.

Once browned, I mix in the taco seasoning and water, simmering for 3–4 minutes until thickened, then I take it off the heat.

I spread tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish.

I spoon the beef mixture evenly over the chips.

Next, I sprinkle on the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, along with optional toppings like black beans, olives, and jalapeños.

I bake everything for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

After removing from the oven, I top the nachos with fresh tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro.

I serve it hot with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 and comes together in just 25 minutes—10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cook time. Each serving has about 430 calories, making it a fun and flavorful meal or snack.

Variations

Sometimes I swap ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken for a leaner option. I also like using different cheese blends or adding a drizzle of queso for extra cheesiness. For vegetarian nachos, I skip the meat and double up on beans, corn, and sautéed peppers. It’s also easy to spice things up with hot sauce or extra jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

Nachos are best enjoyed fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in the fridge in an airtight container. To reheat, I use the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again—usually about 10 minutes. I avoid the microwave since it can make the chips soggy.

FAQs

Can I make these nachos ahead of time?

I prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready, I assemble and bake the nachos fresh for the best texture.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I love using a combo of cheddar and Monterey Jack for great melt and flavor, but I sometimes add pepper jack for a spicy kick.

How do I keep the nachos from getting soggy?

I bake the chips with cheese first to create a barrier, then add wetter toppings like tomatoes and sour cream after baking.

Are these nachos gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the tortilla chips and taco seasoning I use are certified gluten-free.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Absolutely. I often serve these nachos as a fun dinner, especially with sides like guacamole, salsa, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

These easy cheesy beef nachos are one of my favorite recipes for when I need something fast, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing. They’re endlessly adaptable and always satisfying, whether I’m hosting friends or just treating myself to a fun dinner.

Recipe:

Easy Cheesy Beef Nachos

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Crispy tortilla chips layered with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings make these nachos a quick and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.