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Savory Loaded Nachos

savory loaded nachos - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for loaded nachos with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, perfect for a satisfying late-night snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Tortilla chips (sturdy, thick-cut, about 8 cups)
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping
  • Fresh cilantro, a handful chopped (optional)
  • Lime wedges for squeezing

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño to the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
  5. On a rimmed baking sheet, spread a single layer of tortilla chips. Evenly distribute the seasoned beef mixture over the chips. Scatter black beans and diced tomatoes on top.
  6. Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese blend over everything, covering as many chips as possible.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the chips start to brown.
  8. Remove from oven and top with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Squeeze lime juice over the top before serving.

Notes

Use thick, sturdy tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Watch the nachos closely in the oven to avoid burning the cheese. Layer chips evenly and avoid overcrowding for best melting and crispiness. For vegetarian or dairy-free versions, substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat and use vegan cheese and yogurt alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded nachos, savory nachos, midnight snack, easy nachos, ground beef nachos, cheesy nachos, quick snack