Introduction
Indulge in a flavorful dish that brings together the comforting elements of nachos with a hearty twist. This recipe combines savory ground beef, melty cheese, and a medley of toppings, making it perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Dive into the mouthwatering layers of cheese, beef, and crispy tortilla chips that will satisfy any cravings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 (10 oz) bag tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
½ cup diced tomatoes
¼ cup chopped green onions
½ cup sour cream
½ cup guacamole
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Now, let’s get started on creating this delicious nacho dish! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef, cooking until browned while breaking it apart for about 5–6 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper, stirring well before removing it from heat.
Next, spread the tortilla chips in an even layer on a baking sheet and sprinkle half of the cheese over the chips. Spoon the beef mixture evenly on top of the cheese and then add the remaining cheese over everything. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
Once out of the oven, top your nachos with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, chopped green onions, sour cream, and guacamole. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 3: Cook Ground Beef
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5–6 minutes).
Step 4: Drain Excess Grease
Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 5: Add Onion and Garlic
Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Step 6: Season the Mixture
Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and remove from heat.
Step 7: Prepare Tortilla Chips
Spread tortilla chips in an even layer on a baking sheet.
Step 8: Add Cheese
Sprinkle half of the cheese over the chips.
Step 9: Add Beef Mixture
Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the cheese.
Step 10: Add Remaining Cheese
Add the remaining cheese on top.
Step 11: Bake
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
Step 12: Add Toppings
Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, green onions, sour cream, and guacamole.
Step 13: Serve
Serve immediately.
Notes
Note 1: Ground Beef Alternatives
You can substitute ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative if desired.
Note 2: Spice Level
Adjust the amount of jalapeño to suit your spice preference or omit it entirely for a milder dish.
Note 3: Cheese Variations
Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor.
Note 4: Serving Ideas
This dish can be served with additional toppings like olives, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce.
Note 5: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Cook techniques
Brown the Ground Beef
Cooking the ground beef until browned is essential for developing flavor. Use medium heat and break it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
After browning the beef, adding diced onions and minced garlic enhances the dish’s aroma and depth. Sauté them until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
Seasoning
Incorporating chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper not only adds flavor but also complements the richness of the beef. Stir well to combine.
Layering Ingredients
Assembly is crucial for nachos. Start with a layer of tortilla chips, then cheese, followed by the beef mixture, and finish with more cheese. This technique ensures every chip is flavorful and cheesy.
Baking
Bake nachos at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is fully melted. This step binds the ingredients together, creating a cohesive dish.
Garnishing
Adding toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, green onions, sour cream, and guacamole brings freshness and variety to the nachos, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
FAQ
Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Adding extra jalapeños, spicy salsa, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can increase the heat level.
What type of cheese works best?
A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese is ideal; however, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for added spice.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prepare the beef mixture and set up the layers in advance, then bake just before serving for a freshly melted cheese experience.
What are some good side dishes to serve with nachos?
Serve nachos with a side of refried beans, rice, or a simple salad to balance the richness.
Conclusion
This delicious layered beef nachos recipe combines the richness of seasoned ground beef with the crunch of tortilla chips, topped off with melty cheese and fresh toppings. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings, game nights, or a cozy family dinner. Serve hot for the ultimate cheesy experience that everyone will love!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Nachos
Replace ground beef with black beans or lentils, and add corn, bell peppers, and olives for a colorful and healthy vegetarian option.
BBQ Chicken Nachos
Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken mixed with BBQ sauce, and top with red onions and cilantro for a smoky twist.
Tex-Mex Nachos
Incorporate refried beans and diced avocado. Add a layer of salsa for extra flavor before baking.
Buffalo Cauliflower Nachos
Use roasted buffalo cauliflower florets instead of beef for a spicy, plant-based alternative. Garnish with blue cheese crumbles and celery.
Breakfast Nachos
Top the nachos with scrambled eggs, crumbled breakfast sausage, and avocado. Finish with a drizzle of hot sauce for a brunch favorite.
Cheesy Beef Queso Nachos
Pour a warm queso cheese sauce over the baked nachos instead of shredded cheese for an even creamier texture. Add jalapeños for some heat.
