Description
Cheesy Beef Nachos
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Sauce:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Nachos:
1 bag tortilla chips
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Add garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Nachos:
Arrange tortilla chips in a bowl or on a plate. Top with seasoned beef, then pour over the creamy cheese sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
These loaded nachos are perfect for a snack, game day, or a quick and satisfying meal! Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect nachos every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. While the oven heats, cook your seasoned beef as directed. For the cheese sauce, ensure you whisk the roux (butter and flour) constantly to prevent burning before slowly adding the milk. Once the cheese is melted, keep the sauce on very low heat. Spread a single, even layer of tortilla chips on the baking sheet. Spoon the beef evenly over the chips, then drizzle with the warm cheese sauce. Bake for 5-7 minutes just to warm everything through. Finally, add your fresh cilantro garnish.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your nachos with a variety of toppings served on the side. Consider bowls of diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, or a quick pico de gallo. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a fresh green salad or black beans. These nachos pair perfectly with cold Mexican beer, margaritas, or a refreshing agua fresca.
How-to Summary
In short: Brown ground beef with taco seasoning. Create a simple cheese sauce by making a roux, adding milk, and melting in cheddar cheese with spices. Layer tortilla chips, the seasoned beef, and cheese sauce on an oven-safe dish. Bake briefly at 350°F until hot. Garnish and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the components ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the beef and make the cheese sauce 1-2 days in advance. Store separately in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a splash of milk to the cheese sauce while reheating.
How do I keep the nachos from getting soggy? The key is to bake them briefly after assembly and serve immediately. Also, ensure your beef mixture isn’t too watery by simmering it until most liquid evaporates.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. A Monterey Jack and cheddar blend is excellent. For a sharper flavor, try pepper jack or a bit of Colby.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover nachos? Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 5-10 minutes to help crisp the chips back up. The microwave will make them soggy.
Is there a substitute for the homemade cheese sauce? For a quicker option, you can use a high-quality store-bought queso. However, the homemade sauce offers superior flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the Chips: Piling on too many toppings leads to soggy, hard-to-eat nachos. Use a light, even hand.
- Using Cold Toppings: Adding cold beef or cheese sauce from the fridge results in a lukewarm final dish. Ensure components are hot before assembly.
- Skipping the Bake: Not baking the assembled nachos means the chips won’t get warm and the cheese won’t properly adhere.
- Wet Beef Mixture: Not draining fat or simmering long enough creates excess moisture, which soaks the chips.
Conclusion
Mastering these loaded cheesy beef nachos is about balancing flavorful, well-cooked components with smart assembly. By following this enhanced guide—from the step-by-step baking method to avoiding common pitfalls—you can consistently create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any casual gathering. The customizable nature of nachos invites creativity, so don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings and make the recipe your own. Enjoy the delicious results!