Ground Beef Nachos

Craving a savory, cheesy snack that hits all the right spots? Let me introduce you to my ultimate Ground Beef Nachos recipe. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in, these nachos are loaded with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and all your favorite toppings. Whether you like them spicy, tangy, or extra cheesy, this recipe is flexible and foolproof.

Ingredients List

Nachos Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef

• ½ cup finely chopped onion

• 1 (1-ounce) packet taco seasoning mix (or your favorite homemade taco seasoning blend)

• 1 large bag tortilla chips (about 11 ounces)

• 4 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Colby, or a combination)

• ½ cup pickled jalapeños, patted dry (optional)

Optional Toppings

• Chopped tomato

• Salsa

• Sour cream

• Sliced black olives

• Chopped green onions

• Fresh cilantro

• Diced avocado or guacamole

Required Kitchen Tools

When making these loaded nachos, having the right tools makes everything easier and more fun:

1. Large Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions evenly.

2. Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For stirring in the seasoning and ensuring every bite is flavorful.

3. Baking Sheet or Oven-Safe Dish: To layer the chips, beef, and cheese before melting it in the oven.

4. Grater: If you’re shredding your own cheese for that perfect melt.

5. Oven Mitts and Tongs: Essential for safely handling hot nachos straight from the oven.

With your ingredients and tools ready, you’re set to create a nacho masterpiece that’s crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor.

The heart of these nachos is the savory, perfectly seasoned ground beef. Getting this step right ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Browning the Beef

1. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and let it warm for a minute.

2. Cook the Onions: Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

3. Add the Ground Beef: Crumble the beef into the skillet and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to break up large chunks.

4. Season: Sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix (or your homemade blend) along with ¼ cup water. Stir well to coat the beef evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is absorbed and the beef is flavorful.

Pro tip: Taste your beef before layering—it should be zesty, slightly spicy, and perfectly seasoned. Adjust with salt or more seasoning if needed.

Layering the Nachos

The next step is where the magic happens—assembling your nachos so every chip gets the perfect balance of beef, cheese, and optional toppings.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to melt the cheese and warm the nachos evenly.

2. Spread the Chips: On a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish, lay down a generous layer of tortilla chips. Try not to overcrowd them so each chip gets some toppings.

3. Add Beef and Cheese: Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the chips. Sprinkle 2 cups of grated cheese over the top.

4. Optional Jalapeños: Scatter pickled jalapeños if you like a little heat.

By layering carefully, you’ll get nachos that are perfectly gooey, flavorful, and satisfying in every bite.

Now comes the fun part—melting all that cheese and bringing the nachos together into a golden, gooey masterpiece.

Oven Method

1. Bake the Nachos: Place the layered nachos in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

2. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the edges of the chips—they should stay lightly crisp and not burn while the cheese melts perfectly on top.

Pro tip: For extra cheesy perfection, you can broil the nachos for the last 1–2 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

Adding Fresh Toppings

Once baked, it’s time to make your nachos truly irresistible with fresh toppings.

• Salsa and Sour Cream: Dollop over the nachos for tangy, creamy contrast.

• Tomato, Green Onions, and Cilantro: Sprinkle for freshness and color.

• Avocado or Guacamole: Adds creaminess that balances the spice.

• Olives or Extra Jalapeños: Optional, for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Serving Tips

Serve your nachos immediately while they’re warm and gooey. Use a large spatula or tongs to lift portions onto individual plates. These nachos are perfect for sharing—or not, no judgment if you eat the whole pan yourself!

Storage Instructions