Nachos with ground beef are a classic crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game days, parties, or a fun weeknight dinner. This recipe combines crispy tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings for a mouthwatering treat everyone will love. Ready to learn how to make nachos with ground beef? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
– 1 large bag of tortilla chips (about 11 ounces)
– 4 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a mix)
– 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, salsa, sour cream, sliced black olives, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, diced avocado or guacamole
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the onion is tender and the beef is browned with no pink remaining. Drain any excess fat to keep the nachos from getting greasy. Then, stir in the taco seasoning along with any water called for on the packet, and cook according to the seasoning instructions until well combined and flavorful.
2. Layer the Nachos
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a large rimmed baking sheet, spread half of the tortilla chips in an even layer. Top with half of the cooked ground beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and half of the jalapeños if you’re using them. Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, beef, cheese, and jalapeños.
3. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the chips to avoid burning but ensure the cheese gets that perfect gooey texture.
4. Add Fresh Toppings and Serve
Once out of the oven, add your favorite fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, sour cream, sliced black olives, green onions, cilantro, and avocado or guacamole. These fresh elements add brightness and balance to the rich, cheesy beef layers.
Tips for the Best Ground Beef Nachos
– Make your own chips: If you want extra crispy chips, try cutting corn tortillas into quarters and frying them until golden, then seasoning lightly with salt.
– Avoid soggy nachos: Serve immediately after baking to keep chips crisp. Layer ingredients evenly so every chip gets a good amount of toppings.
– Customize your seasoning: Use your favorite taco seasoning or make your own with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper for a personalized flavor.
– Add beans for extra heartiness: Refried or black beans add protein and texture, making the nachos more filling.
Variations to Try
– Sheet pan nachos: Spread everything on a baking sheet for easy cleanup and even cooking. Add corn, black beans, and fresh veggies for a colorful twist.
– Loaded nachos: Top with queso cheese sauce, salsa verde, pickled jalapeños, and crema for a restaurant-style experience.
– Make it vegetarian: Skip the beef and use seasoned beans or plant-based meat alternatives for a meatless version.
Nachos with ground beef are incredibly versatile and easy to make, perfect for satisfying cravings or feeding a crowd. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious, cheesy, and flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. Enjoy your homemade nachos hot and fresh!
Perfect for any occasion, these nachos are sure to become a favorite go-to recipe.