These Loaded Nachos are the ultimate party snack—crispy tortilla chips smothered in gooey melted cheese and layered with seasoned ground beef or beans, black beans, jalapeños, tomatoes, sour cream, and fresh guacamole. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a movie marathon, or just craving comfort food, this customizable nacho platter is fast, fun, and satisfying. Made in under 20 minutes, they’re perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to the ultimate cheesy indulgence.
Yields: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 (10-12 ounce) bag of round tortilla chips
- 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or plant-based ground
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) of taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (15-ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices, drained
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- Optional toppings: pico de gallo, salsa, guacamole
Equipment:
- Large oven-safe platter or baking sheet
- Large skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Add Taco Seasoning and Water
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the meat is well-coated with the seasoning. Set aside.
Step 3: Warm the Refried Beans
- In a separate small saucepan over low heat, warm the refried beans, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them according to package directions.
Step 4: Assemble the First Layer of Nachos
- Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on the large oven-safe platter or baking sheet.
Step 5: Add Beans and Meat
- Spoon the warm refried beans evenly over the tortilla chips. Then, sprinkle the seasoned ground meat over the beans.
Step 6: Add Cheese
- Sprinkle both the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses evenly over the meat and beans.
Step 7: Bake the Nachos
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the platter of nachos in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Add Cold Toppings
- Remove the nachos from the oven. Sprinkle the pickled jalapeños, sour cream (either dollop or drizzle), chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and sliced black olives over the melted cheese.
Step 9: Serve Immediately
- Serve the loaded nachos immediately while they are warm and the toppings are fresh. Offer any additional toppings like pico de gallo, salsa, or guacamole on the side.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories 620 kcal
- Protein 28g
- Carbs 45g
- Fiber 6g
- Fat 38g
- (Nutrition calculated with beef and full toppings)
Tips
✅ Prevent Soggy Nachos: Bake chips alone for 5 mins first
✅ Meal Prep: Prep toppings ahead (store separately)
✅ Leftovers? Turn into breakfast nachos with scrambled eggs
Enjoy your delicious homemade Loaded Nachos!
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