Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Crispy tortilla chips, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings come together for a flavor-packed meal or snack. Whether you’re hosting game night, feeding a hungry family, or craving a cozy treat, this recipe is quick, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy. Even better, everything comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy days!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend works best)
• 1 (12-oz) bag tortilla chips (sturdy, restaurant-style)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)
• 1 (15-oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños (adjust for spice level)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa

Ingredient Prep Guide

Prep all your toppings first to make assembly a breeze. Rinse the black beans thoroughly in a colander to remove excess starch. Pat them dry with a paper towel so they don’t make the nachos soggy. For the beef, use a leaner blend if you prefer, but 80/20 adds great flavor—just drain the fat after cooking. Shred the cheese yourself for better melt (pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents). Chop the onions and cilantro finely so they distribute evenly. Want less heat? Remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use milder banana peppers.

Equipment & Tools

• Large baking sheet
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Colander
• Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet—overlapping is okay, but don’t pile them too high. Next, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the beef simmer for 2–3 minutes to soak up the spices.

Sprinkle half the cheese evenly over the chips, followed by the beef, beans, and half the onions and jalapeños. Top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to avoid burnt edges! Remove from the oven and add the tomatoes, cilantro, and remaining onions and jalapeños. Serve immediately with dollops of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side.

Key Details

Total Time: 25 mins (Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins)

🍽️ Servings: 4–6 people

⚙️ Equipment: Baking sheet, skillet, mixing bowls, knife

Serving Suggestions

For a casual dinner, pair these nachos with a crisp salad or roasted corn. They’re also a hit at parties—set up a topping bar with bowls of salsa, guacamole, and lime wedges so guests can customize their plates. Serve on a large platter with a side of chilled beer or margaritas for a festive touch. If you’re serving kids, skip the spicy jalapeños and add extra cheese or diced avocado.

Pro Tips

Layering is key! Spread cheese evenly between the chips and toppings to prevent dry spots. For extra-crispy nachos, bake the chips alone for 3–4 minutes before adding toppings—this helps them stay crunchy. If you’re using juicy ingredients like salsa or pico de gallo, add them after baking to avoid sogginess.

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Use two trays if needed to keep the layers thin. Leftover meat? Freeze it for quick nacho nights later. For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the beef seasoning.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to revive the crunch. Skip the microwave—it turns chips soggy. Keep fresh toppings like cilantro and tomatoes separate, and add them after reheating.

Troubleshooting

Soggy nachos? Too many wet toppings or underbaked chips are likely the culprit. Stick to dry or cooked toppings (like beans or meat) during baking, and save fresh ingredients for serving. If the cheese isn’t melting evenly, shred it finer or let it sit at room temperature before baking. Bland flavor? Adjust seasoning in the beef or add a squeeze of lime before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make vegetarian loaded nachos?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms. Add extra beans or veggies like bell peppers for heartiness.

How do I keep nachos warm for a party?

Preheat the oven to 200°F (95°C) and place cooked nachos on a wire rack inside. They’ll stay crisp for up to 30 minutes while guests serve themselves.

Are these nachos gluten-free?

Most tortilla chips are gluten-free, but check the label to be safe. Ensure all seasonings and toppings (like store-bought salsa) are certified gluten-free if needed.