Easy Ground Beef Nachos Recipe

One weekend, I needed a quick snack for my family that didn’t require much effort. I had some tortilla chips, ground beef, and cheese in the kitchen, so I threw everything together and baked it. Within minutes, I had a tray of crispy, cheesy nachos that disappeared just as fast as I made them.

Now, ground beef nachos are my go-to when I need something quick for game nights, casual dinners, or just a snack that everyone will enjoy. They’re simple, flavorful, and easy to customize with different toppings.

Servings	Total
4	20mins

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I first made nachos just by experimenting with what I had at home. Over time, I learned little tricks—like seasoning the beef properly and layering the cheese to get the best melty texture. Now, I make them all the time because they’re always a hit!

Why Ground Beef Nachos

Nachos are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory. They’re easy to make, require just a few ingredients, and are great for sharing. Whether it’s a movie night, a party, or a simple snack, nachos always bring people together.

What Is Ground Beef Nachos Made Of?

This dish is made with simple, tasty ingredients:

• Tortilla chips – The crispy base of the nachos.
• Ground beef – Seasoned and cooked to perfection.
• Cheese – A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best melt.
• Toppings – Tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, or anything you like!

What to Have with Ground Beef Nachos

Nachos are great on their own, but here are some sides that go well with them:

• Guacamole – Creamy avocado pairs perfectly.
• Salsa – Adds a fresh, tangy contrast.
• Refried beans – A classic side for a more filling meal.
• Mexican rice – Complements the flavors beautifully.

Is Ground Beef Nachos Healthy?

Nachos can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal. To make them lighter, use baked tortilla chips, lean ground beef, and plenty of fresh toppings like tomatoes and lettuce.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (10 oz) bag tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup guacamole

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5–6 minutes).
   • Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add Seasonings:
   • Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
   • Add chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Nachos:
   • Spread tortilla chips in an even layer on a baking sheet.
   • Sprinkle half of the cheese over the chips.
   • Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the cheese.
   • Add the remaining cheese on top.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
6. Add Toppings and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, green onions, sour cream, and guacamole.
   • Serve immediately.

Tips

• Layer the cheese – This ensures every bite is cheesy and delicious.
• Use sturdy chips – Thin chips can get soggy under the toppings.
• Don’t overload with toppings – Too many wet toppings can make the nachos soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I make nachos ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble and bake them right before serving for the crispiest results.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works as a leaner option.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Nachos are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Ground beef nachos are an easy, delicious snack or meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy chips, seasoned beef, and melty cheese, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a party or a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to be a favorite. Try it out and enjoy a plate of homemade nachos in no time!

MORE RECIPES