Description
Delicious Beef Nachos
Ingredients:
Tortilla chips
Ground beef (1 lb)
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Tomato (diced)
Red onion (finely chopped)
Green olives (sliced)
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
Prepare the beef: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, set aside.
Layer the nachos: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a baking tray, spread a layer of tortilla chips.
Add the toppings: Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef over the chips. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese generously on top.
Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven. Add the diced tomato, chopped red onion, sliced green olives, and fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color.
Enjoy! Serve the nachos immediately while hot and gooey! Perfect for a snack or a fun meal.
I hope this looks good! Let me know if you’d like any modifications.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until fully browned (5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. On a large, rimmed baking sheet, create a single, even layer of tortilla chips.
4. Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef over the chips.
5. Generously sprinkle both shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the beef layer, ensuring good coverage to the edges.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
7. Carefully remove the tray and immediately top with diced tomato, chopped red onion, sliced olives, and fresh cilantro.
8. Serve immediately directly from the tray.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these nachos hot from the oven on a large platter or right on the baking sheet for a casual feel. Offer small bowls of additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, pickled jalapeños, and salsa on the side for guests to customize their portions. They pair perfectly with a cold beer, margarita, or a refreshing limeade.
How-to Summary
Brown seasoned ground beef. On a baking sheet, layer tortilla chips, the cooked beef, and a mix of shredded cheeses. Bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with fresh vegetables and herbs, then serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these nachos ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef topping in advance and store it in the fridge. However, assemble and bake just before serving to prevent soggy chips.
What’s the best way to keep nachos crispy?
Ensure your chips are in a single layer, not piled high. Also, avoid topping the raw chips with wet ingredients like fresh salsa before baking; add those after.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken, seasoned ground turkey, or black beans for a vegetarian option are excellent substitutes.
My cheese isn’t melting well. What happened?
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder melting. For the creamiest result, shred cheese from a block yourself.
How do I reheat leftover nachos?
Reheat on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes. The microwave will make the chips very soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading the Layers: Stacking chips too high creates uneven cooking and soggy bottom chips.
- Adding Wet Toppings Before Baking: Fresh tomatoes, salsa, or sour cream added pre-bake will steam the chips. Always add these after.
- Using Only One Type of Cheese: A blend like cheddar (for flavor) and mozzarella (for stretch) creates a superior texture and taste.
- Letting Them Sit: Nachos are at their peak within minutes of coming out of the oven. Serve immediately.
Conclusion
These fully loaded beef nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory meat, perfectly melted cheese, and fresh, crisp toppings. By following this detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a delicious, shareable snack or meal that’s perfect for any casual gathering. The key is simplicity, quality ingredients, and serving them hot and fresh from the oven for the best possible experience.