Save A crowd-pleasing platter of crispy tortilla chips piled high with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and classic Tex-Mex toppings—perfect for sharing.
I first served this at a family gathering and it was devoured within minutes. The combination of toppings makes it a guaranteed favorite every time.
Ingredients
- For the Beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- For the Nachos: 10 oz (280 g) tortilla chips (about 1 large bag), 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1 cup (100 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese, 1 cup (150 g) canned black beans rinsed and drained, 1/2 cup (80 g) canned corn kernels drained, 2 medium tomatoes diced, 1 jalapeño sliced (optional), 1/4 cup (10 g) sliced black olives
- Toppings: 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, 1/2 cup (120 g) guacamole, 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh cilantro chopped, Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 3:
- Stir in garlic and ground beef breaking up the meat with a spoon. Cook until browned about 5 6 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well, then add water. Simmer for 3 4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- Step 5:
- Spread tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet or ovenproof platter.
- Step 6:
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the chips. Sprinkle black beans, corn, tomatoes, jalapeño slices, and olives over the top.
- Step 7:
- Generously scatter cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over everything.
- Step 8:
- Bake for 8 10 minutes, until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Step 9:
- Remove from oven. Top with dollops of sour cream and guacamole. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Save This recipe always brings my family together. We love gathering around the platter, sharing stories and laughs while enjoying these loaded nachos.
Notes
Try adding pickled jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat. Pairs well with a light Mexican lager or margarita.
Required Tools
Large skillet, baking sheet or ovenproof platter, chef's knife, cutting board, spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream), potential gluten (check chips/seasonings), and may contain soy (depending on chips/seasonings). Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Save Loaded nachos make entertaining easy and delicious. Customize toppings to suit your taste and enjoy every bite.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute beef with extra black beans and adjust seasonings for a satisfying meat-free alternative.
- → What types of cheese work best here?
Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt well and provide a creamy, flavorful topping for the layers.
- → How do I keep tortilla chips crispy when baking?
Use a sturdy baking sheet and avoid excessive liquids to maintain chip crispiness during baking.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Prepare the beef mixture and toppings in advance, then assemble and bake just before serving.
- → What can I serve alongside this platter?
Pair with a light Mexican lager or a refreshing margarita to complement the bold flavors.