The Best Nachos Recipe

Dive into the delightful world of nachos with this ultimate nachos recipe. A medley of textures and flavors - crispy tortilla chips, flavorful ground beef, creamy refried beans, and gooey cheese, all topped off with fresh pico de gallo and your favorite toppings. Perfect for a party appetizer or a casual dinner at home.

Photos of The Best Nachos Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples, there might be some items that you need to look out for. Refried beans are canned and found in the Mexican food aisle in most supermarkets. They are made from pinto beans that are cooked and mashed. Pico de gallo, a fresh salsa, can also be found ready-made in many supermarkets, but you can also make it at home with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime.

Ultimate Delight Nachos Recipe Ingredients

Chili powder: A blend of spices that adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavor to the ground beef.

Kosher salt: Used to season the beef. Kosher salt has larger crystals than regular table salt.

Granulated garlic and onion: They bring a sweet, savory depth of flavor to the beef.

Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the dish.

Refried beans: They add a creamy texture and rich flavor to the nachos.

Tortilla chips: The base of the nachos. Look for sturdy ones to hold up all the toppings.

Cheeses: A combination of cheddar and colby jack cheese gives a perfect melt and a blend of flavors.

Pico de gallo: This fresh salsa adds a burst of freshness to the nachos.

Cilantro: Adds a fresh, citrusy flavor.

Sliced jalapeno: Adds a spicy kick to the nachos.

Optional toppings: Customize your nachos with a variety of toppings like guacamole, salsa, sour cream, olives, green onions, lettuce, corn, and hot sauce.

One reader, Fields Artis says:

The ultimate nachos recipe delight is a game-changer! The spice mix adds a burst of flavor, and the combination of cheeses creates a gooey, delicious topping. The pico de gallo and jalapeños add a refreshing kick. It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any gathering. I highly recommend trying it out!

Fields Artis

Techniques for Making the Best Nachos

How to prepare the spice mix: Combine chili powder, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in a small bowl.

How to cook the ground beef: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and season it with the prepared spice mix. Cook for about 8 minutes, breaking the meat into crumbles, until browned. Drain the fat using a colander.

How to heat the refried beans: Return the cooked beef to the pan, add the refried beans and water, and heat the mixture until the beans are smooth and warmed through.

How to assemble the nachos: Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a 13x18-inch oven-safe platter or sheet pan, then top with shredded cheese. Add the beef and bean mixture, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and bake until the cheese has melted. Finally, top the nachos with pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices, or any preferred toppings before serving.

How To Make The Best Nachos

The best nachos recipe keeps the chips from getting soggy. The secret is to pre-bake them and top them with cheese, then layer the rest of the toppings.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Spice Mix:

2tbspchili powder
1½tspkosher salt
1tspgranulated garlic
1tspgranulated onion
1tspground cumin
½tspdried oregano
¼tspblack pepper
pinchcayenne pepper,optional

For Nachos:

1tspvegetable oil
1lbground beef,(80:20), lean to fat ratio
16ozrefried beans,(2 cups), canned or homemade
¼cupwater
1largebag of tortilla chips
4ozcheddar cheese,(about 2 cups), grated, plus more for topping
4ozcolby jack cheese,(about 2 cups), grated, plus more for topping
1cuppico de gallo,store bought or homemade, plus more for topping
¼cupcilantro,chopped
1slicedjalapeño,pickled or fresh

Optional Toppings:

guacamole
salsa
sour cream
canned black olives
sliced green onions
shredded lettuce
corn
hot sauce

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine all of the spices (chili powder through cayenne) together in a small bowl.
Heat the vegetable oil on medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer. Add the ground beef to the pan and season it with all of the taco spice blend.
As the meat cooks, use a spoon to break the meat up into crumbles. Cook for about 8 minutes until the meat has browned and drain the fat using a colander.
Return the meat to the pan and add the refried beans and the water. Heat the mixture until the beans are smooth and warmed through.
Reduce the heat to low and keep the beef-bean mixture warm while you prepare the chips.
On a 13×18-inch oven-safe platter or sheet pan, arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer, overlapping them slightly.
Toast the chips in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, or just until fragrant.

To Assemble:

Carefully remove the pan from the oven and top with ½ of the shredded cheeses.
Allow the heat from the chips to melt the cheese slightly before topping the chips with the beef and bean mixture.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the beef and return the pan to the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese has fully melted.
Top the nachos with the pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, jalapeño slices, or any preferred toppings. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 722.11kcal
Fat: 42.83g
Saturated Fat: 15.37g
Trans Fat: 1.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 15.98g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.75g
Carbohydrates: 55.09g
Fiber: 6.64g
Sugar: 4.25g
Protein: 30.08g
Cholesterol: 90.91mg
Sodium: 1017.13mg
Calcium: 367.53mg
Potassium: 678.94mg
Iron: 4.26mg
Vitamin A: 150.47µg
Vitamin C: 9.25mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Nachos

When preparing your nachos, it's important to layer your ingredients effectively to ensure every chip gets a good amount of toppings. Start with a layer of chips, then a layer of cheese, followed by the beef and bean mixture, and another layer of cheese. This not only helps to bind the nachos together but also ensures that every bite is full of flavor. Also, toasting the chips before adding the toppings can help to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Nachos

Prep ahead: Prepare the spice mix and pico de gallo in advance to save time when assembling the nachos.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.

Batch cooking: Cook and season a larger quantity of ground beef and beans, then store the extra for future use in other recipes.

Assembly line: Set up an assembly line with all the toppings and ingredients to streamline the nacho-making process.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife can make chopping and slicing ingredients quicker and more efficient.

One-pan cooking: Use a single pan to cook the meat, warm the beans, and melt the cheese to minimize cleanup time.

Choose quick-melting cheese: Select cheeses that melt easily to reduce the time needed for the nachos to cook in the oven.

Prep in advance: Prepare the meat and bean mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy assembly when needed.

Substitute Ingredients For The Best Nachos Recipe

chili powder - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can provide a similar smoky flavor and vibrant color to your dish.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile to kosher salt.
granulated garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide the same garlic flavor without the granulated texture.
granulated onion - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can offer a concentrated onion flavor similar to granulated onion.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can provide a similar warm and citrusy flavor to your dish.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor to oregano.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder and less pungent flavor compared to black pepper.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add heat and a similar level of spiciness to your dish.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for vegetable oil.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative to ground beef with a similar texture and flavor.
refried beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans can provide a creamy texture and earthy flavor similar to refried beans.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey jack cheese has a mild and creamy flavor, similar to cheddar cheese.
colby jack cheese - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack cheese can add a spicy kick and creamy texture similar to colby jack cheese.
pico de gallo - Substitute with salsa: Salsa can provide a similar combination of fresh tomatoes, onions, and peppers found in pico de gallo.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can offer a fresh and herbaceous flavor similar to cilantro.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano pepper can provide a similar level of heat and flavor to jalapeno.
guacamole - Substitute with avocado slices: Avocado slices can offer a creamy and rich texture similar to guacamole.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy and creamy element similar to sour cream.
canned black olives - Substitute with kalamata olives: Kalamata olives have a rich and briny flavor similar to black olives.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can offer a mild onion flavor and a similar appearance to green onions.
shredded lettuce - Substitute with shredded cabbage: Shredded cabbage can provide a crunchy and fresh element similar to shredded lettuce.
corn - Substitute with grilled corn kernels: Grilled corn kernels can offer a smoky and sweet flavor similar to fresh corn.
hot sauce - Substitute with crushed red pepper: Crushed red pepper can add heat and a similar level of spiciness to your dish.

Presentation Ideas for the Ultimate Nachos

Elevate the plating: Arrange the nachos in a circular pattern on a large, elegant platter, ensuring that each chip is visible and not overcrowded. This will create a visually appealing presentation that showcases the layers of toppings.
Incorporate height: Build the nachos into a slight mound, using the layers of chips, beef and bean mixture, and cheese to create a visually striking and appetizing display. This will add dimension to the dish and make it more visually appealing.
Garnish with precision: Carefully place the pico de gallo, cilantro, and jalapeño slices on top of the nachos, ensuring that each ingredient is strategically placed for a balanced and aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Present the ultimate nachos on a sleek, modern platter or dish that complements the colors of the dish and adds a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Consider adding a vibrant element, such as a drizzle of vibrant green guacamole or a dollop of bright red salsa, to create a visually stunning contrast against the golden chips and melted cheese.
Emphasize the cheese melt: Showcase the gooey, melted cheese by ensuring it cascades over the edges of the nachos, creating an enticing and appetizing visual appeal that highlights the indulgent nature of the dish.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the placement of each ingredient, ensuring that the presentation is meticulous and visually captivating, reflecting the precision and care that went into crafting the ultimate nachos.

Essential Tools for Making Nachos

Cutting board: A flat board on which food is cut.
Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife with a blade that is typically 8 inches long, used for slicing, dicing, and chopping.
Skillet: A frying pan with a long handle and a relatively shallow, flat bottom, used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
Grater: A kitchen tool with sharp-edged holes used to shred or grate foods such as cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients, typically made of glass, ceramic, or metal.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and lifting foods.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
Tongs: A kitchen tool consisting of two arms joined by a hinge, used for picking up and manipulating food.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing, stirring, and combining ingredients.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining liquids from food.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen tool with a handle and wire loops used for beating, whipping, and blending ingredients.
Rolling pin: A cylindrical kitchen tool used to flatten and shape dough for baking.
Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used for spreading butter, oil, or glazes onto food.
Muffin tin: A metal pan with cup-shaped indentations used for baking muffins or cupcakes.
Blender: A kitchen appliance used to puree, mix, or emulsify food and other substances.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
Grill: A cooking surface used for grilling and barbecuing food over an open flame or heat source.

Storing and Freezing Nachos: What You Need to Know

For best results, serve the nachos immediately after assembling. This will ensure that the tortilla chips remain crispy and the toppings are fresh and flavorful.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the chips may become soggy over time due to the moisture from the toppings.
To reheat the nachos, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover nachos on a baking sheet and heat them for 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the cheese is melted. You can also use a microwave, but the chips may not be as crispy.
If you want to prepare the nachos in advance, you can assemble them up to the point of adding the beef and bean mixture. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap, add the beef and bean mixture, and bake as directed.
While it's not recommended to freeze the fully assembled nachos, you can freeze the ground beef and refried beans mixture for up to 2 months. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Thaw the mixture in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and assembling the nachos.

How To Reheat Leftover Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover nachos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Place the sheet in the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chips are crispy again. This method helps to restore the crunch of the tortilla chips while melting the cheese and warming up the toppings.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover nachos on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals, checking after each interval to ensure they don't become soggy. Be careful not to overheat, as the chips can quickly turn soft and lose their texture.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat your nachos. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover nachos on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chips are warm and crispy.
For a unique twist, transform your leftover nachos into a breakfast dish. Crack a few eggs over the top of the nachos and place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your liking. The runny yolks will add a delicious richness to the nachos, creating a satisfying and flavorful breakfast option.
If you want to maintain the freshness of your leftover nachos, consider separating the toppings from the chips before storing them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to reheat, arrange the chips on a baking sheet, top with the meat, beans, and cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Once the cheese is melted and the chips are warm, add the remaining cold toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole, for a fresh and flavorful experience.

Interesting Trivia About Nachos

The Ultimate Nachos Recipe Delight is a popular dish in many parts of the world. It is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. Nachos are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, but they can also be a satisfying main course. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, flavorful seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, and fresh toppings creates a delicious and satisfying dish. Whether served at a party, game day, or as a quick meal, nachos are a crowd-pleaser. They can be customized with various toppings, making them a versatile and enjoyable dish for many occasions.

Is Making Nachos at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this ultimate nachos recipe delight largely depends on the quality of ingredients used. Ground beef and cheese can be pricey, but the versatility of the dish makes it a good value. With refried beans and tortilla chips as affordable staples, this recipe can be cost-effective. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering its flavor, versatility, and affordability.

Is This Nachos Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This ultimate nachos recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side. The main culprits are:

High-fat ingredients like ground beef and cheese
Refried beans, which often contain added fat and salt
Fried tortilla chips, contributing to the overall fat and calorie content

However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as the use of spices for flavor instead of relying solely on salt, and the addition of fresh toppings like pico de gallo and cilantro.

To make this recipe healthier without sacrificing taste, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for lean ground beef, ground turkey, or even a plant-based alternative to reduce the fat content
Use reduced-fat cheese or decrease the amount of cheese used
Choose baked tortilla chips instead of fried, or even better, make your own chips using whole-grain tortillas
Incorporate more vegetables into the toppings, such as diced bell peppers, onions, and lettuce
Prepare homemade refried beans to control the amount of fat and salt added
Serve the nachos with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole, which provide healthy fats and additional nutrients

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this classic dish without compromising on the bold flavors and textures that make nachos so satisfying.

Editor's Opinion on This Nachos Recipe

This ultimate nachos recipe delight is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The spice mix adds depth to the ground beef, while the combination of cheddar and colby jack cheese provides a rich and gooey topping for the crispy tortilla chips. The addition of pico de gallo, cilantro, and jalapeno slices adds a fresh and vibrant touch. The optional toppings allow for customization, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Overall, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Enhance Your The Best Nachos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Guacamole: Creamy avocado goodness with a hint of lime and a kick of jalapeno to complement the nachos.

Salsa: Fresh and zesty tomato-based salsa with a mix of onions, cilantro, and a touch of heat to add a burst of flavor to the nachos.

Sour Cream: Cool and tangy sour cream to balance out the spice and richness of the nachos.

Canned Black Olives: Salty and briny black olives to add a pop of flavor and texture to the nachos.

Shredded Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing shredded lettuce to add a light and fresh element to the nachos.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Nachos

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and a rich, flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Pizza: This homemade pizza features a tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, red onions, and plenty of melted cheese. It's a crowd-pleasing option for pizza night at home.

Refreshing Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: This vibrant fruit salad combines a variety of fresh fruits with a zesty citrus dressing. It's a light and refreshing option for a healthy dessert or side dish.

Main Course and Dessert Pairings for Nachos

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Create a succulent and flavorful grilled salmon dish by marinating the fish in a zesty lemon and herb mixture. The citrusy marinade will infuse the salmon with bright and refreshing flavors, while the grilling process will give it a delicious smoky char. Serve the grilled salmon with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious beef stir fry by sautéing thinly sliced beef with an assortment of colorful vegetables in a savory and aromatic sauce. The tender beef and crisp vegetables will create a delightful contrast in textures, while the umami-rich sauce will tie everything together with its bold and complex flavors. Pair the beef stir fry with steamed rice for a hearty and fulfilling dining experience.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and tangy goodness of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a luscious strawberry compote and fresh sliced strawberries for a delightful and refreshing treat.

Why trust this The Best Nachos Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, crafted by a seasoned chef with a passion for creating mouthwatering Mexican cuisine. The carefully curated blend of spices ensures an explosion of flavor in every bite, while the combination of cheddar and colby jack cheese adds a rich and indulgent touch. The use of fresh ingredients such as pico de gallo and cilantro promises a vibrant and authentic taste. With a meticulous cooking method and a focus on quality, this recipe is a testament to the chef's expertise and dedication to delivering an unforgettable nacho experience.

Want to share your favorite nachos recipe or discuss the best toppings for the ultimate nachos? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey as a substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It will give the nachos a lighter and leaner flavor while still being delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or adding more beans. You can also omit the meat altogether and load up on your favorite veggies for a tasty vegetarian option.

Can I prepare the nachos in advance?

While it's best to assemble and bake the nachos just before serving to keep the chips crispy, you can prepare the beef and bean mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the nachos and bake them for a few minutes to melt the cheese.

How can I make the nachos spicier?

If you prefer spicier nachos, you can adjust the level of heat by adding more cayenne pepper to the spice mix or by incorporating sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce as toppings. You can also choose a spicier salsa to kick up the heat.

Can I customize the toppings to my preference?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. You can add guacamole, sour cream, salsa, black olives, green onions, shredded lettuce, or any other toppings you enjoy. The beauty of nachos is that you can make them your own with your favorite flavors.