Description
Loaded Beef Nachos Supreme
Crispy tortilla chips smothered in seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, and fresh toppings—these loaded nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game nights or gatherings!
Ingredients
For the Beef:
1 lb ground beef
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
1/4 cup water
For the Nachos:
1 large bag tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
Optional Toppings:
Sour cream
Guacamole or avocado slices
Salsa
Directions
Cook the beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Assemble the nachos:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, spread a layer of tortilla chips. Top evenly with seasoned beef and shredded cheese.
Bake to perfection:
Place in the oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add fresh toppings:
Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and onions (if using).
Serve and enjoy:
Serve hot with sides of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for dipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 400 kcal per serving
Perfect for parties, family nights, or any time you crave a cheesy, crunchy bite!
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. Brown 1 lb of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart. Drain the fat. 3. Add 1 packet of taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water to the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until a thick sauce forms. 4. On a large, rimmed baking sheet, create a single, even layer of tortilla chips. 5. Spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the chips, ensuring coverage. 6. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese uniformly over the beef and chips. 7. Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. 8. Carefully remove the tray from the oven. Immediately top with fresh diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and optional onions. 9. Serve directly from the tray while hot.
Serving Suggestions
For the best experience, serve these nachos immediately after adding fresh toppings. Place the baking sheet in the center of the table for a fun, communal snack. Offer small bowls of sour cream, chunky guacamole, and a variety of salsas on the side. Pair with cold Mexican beer, margaritas, or a refreshing agua fresca. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a simple taco salad or black bean soup.
How-to Summary
Quickly brown and season ground beef with taco mix. Layer tortilla chips on a sheet, top with the beef and shredded cheese, then bake until the cheese melts. Finish with a generous handful of fresh, cold toppings like tomatoes and jalapeños for the perfect contrast of hot, cheesy, and crisp textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these nachos ahead of time? You can prepare the seasoned beef up to 2 days in advance and reheat it before assembling. However, assemble and bake just before serving to prevent soggy chips.
How do I keep the bottom chips from getting soggy? Ensure your beef mixture isn’t too watery after simmering. Also, avoid overloading layers; a single, well-spaced layer bakes more evenly than a deep pile.
What’s the best cheese for melting? A pre-shredded Mexican blend works well, but for superior meltability, shred your own cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of both from a block.
Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely. Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground alternative or use a can of seasoned black beans or lentils, drained well.
How can I reheat leftover nachos? Reheat on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes. The microwave will make the chips very soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using stale or thin tortilla chips that break easily under the weight of toppings.
- Adding cold toppings like sour cream or salsa before baking, which makes the chips soggy. Only add these after baking.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, which leads to uneven cheese melting and steaming instead of crisping.
- Not draining the excess fat from the cooked beef, resulting in a greasy final dish.
- Baking for too long, which can burn the chips. Watch closely after the 8-minute mark.
Conclusion
These Loaded Beef Nachos Supreme are the quintessential easy, shareable dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. By following the simple layering technique and adding fresh toppings after baking, you guarantee a perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and savory in every bite. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a major game day gathering, this reliable recipe is sure to be a hit. Customize the toppings to your taste and enjoy the delicious results.