Easy Ground Beef Loaded Nachos

The ground beef loaded nachos are the easiest way to feed a crowd on game day or a hungry family on a busy weeknight! They take just 30 minutes from start to finish, are totally customizable, and are packed with bold flavors.

 

Easy Loaded Nachos Recipe

• Use Up Leftovers. This is the perfect way to repurpose leftover taco meat into a brand new meal the whole family will love!
• 30 Minute Dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, these loaded nachos are an easy appetizer or a quick meal.
• Filled with Flavor. Packed with layers of crispy chips, melted cheese, seasoned taco meat, and fresh toppings – these nachos are loaded with flavor!

Ingredients for Loaded Nachos

• Tortilla Chips: The sturdy base for piling on all the delicious toppings. Choose thick-cut chips to hold up under the layers.
• Shredded Cheese: Colby Jack is my favorite for these nachos but a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would work too. Add Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
• Taco Meat: My easy taco meat recipe adds seasoned, savory flavor. Substitute with ground turkey if desired.
• Black Beans: Provide a hearty, protein-packed layer. Pinto beans work well in place of the black beans.
• Black Olives: Add a briny, salty contrast. Skip if they’re not your favorite.
• Jalapeño: For a kick of heat. I like to use fresh or pickled jalapenos.
• Red Onion: Adds a sharp, crunchy bite. Swap with white onion if preferred. Or use pickled red onion!
• Cherry Tomatoes: Bring freshness and a burst of sweetness. Regular diced tomatoes work as well.
• Green Onion: A mild onion flavor and a pop of color. Chives can be used as a substitute.
• Cilantro: Provides a fresh, citrusy note. Omit if you’re not a fan.
• Creamy Avocado Sauce: A creamy, tangy drizzle that ties it all together. Guacamole or sour cream can be used instead.

How to Make Loaded Nachos

Prepare the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F.

Layer the Chips and Cheese: Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large sheet pan. Sprinkle half the shredded cheese over the chips.

Add the Proteins: Top with a layer of taco meat and black beans. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Add Vegetables: Layer with black olives, jalapeño slices, and diced red onion.

Bake: Place the nachos in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and starts to turn golden brown.

Finish with Fresh Toppings: Remove from the oven and add cherry tomatoes, green onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with avocado sauce.

Serve and Enjoy: Top with sour cream and serve immediately with extra avocado sauce and sour cream on the side.

Tips for Making Loaded Nachos

• Customize Your Toppings. Add ingredients like diced bell peppers, fresh corn, or sliced avocado for more variety. Use this recipe as a blueprint and make it your own!
• Shred Fresh Cheese. Shred your own cheese for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese is coated in cellulose which prevents it from clumping but also prevents it from melting. Freshly shredded cheese will have better flavor also.
• Avoid Soggy Nachos. Add fresh toppings like tomatoes and avocado sauce just before serving.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• Prepare taco meat and chop vegetables in advance.
• Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Assemble and bake the nachos when ready to serve.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep fresh toppings separate for best results.

Reheating Loaded Nachos

• Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chips soft.

Serving Suggestions

• easy blender salsa
• avocado cream sauce
• chipotle sauce
• roasted tomato salsa
• cilantro lime sauce

Try these easy appetizers next!

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