Ground Beef Nachos Recipe: The Perfect Snack or Appetizer

If you’re craving a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, Ground Beef Nachos are the answer. Perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or a casual dinner, nachos are always a crowd-pleaser. Layered with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings, this recipe will make you feel like you’re enjoying restaurant-quality nachos in the comfort of your own home.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make Ground Beef Nachos step-by-step, offering helpful tips and variations to customize them to your taste. Plus, we’ll add some nutrition information and a storage section, so you can enjoy them even after your meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup refried beans (optional, but adds creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
• 1 bag tortilla chips
• Toppings: sour cream, diced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped cilantro, guacamole, salsa

Directions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
2. Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning, and add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) to help it coat the beef evenly. Stir in the diced tomatoes and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes. If you’re adding refried beans, stir them into the beef mixture and heat everything through.
3. Prepare the Nacho Base: While the beef is simmering, arrange the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish. Layer them evenly to create a solid base for the toppings.
4. Layer the Nachos: Once the beef is seasoned, spoon it generously over the tortilla chips. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the beef, ensuring that each chip gets a little cheesy goodness.
5. Bake the Nachos: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the nachos in the oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn.
6. Add the Toppings: Remove the nachos from the oven. Add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Notes:

• Taco Seasoning: You can easily make your own taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• Meat Variations: You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, black beans or lentils work well as a filling, hearty alternative.
• Cheese Options: For a melty, gooey texture, use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even Monterey Jack. You can also sprinkle some queso fresco for an extra flavor punch.
• Add-Ins: For extra flavor, consider adding some diced green chilies, bell peppers, or even a drizzle of nacho cheese sauce before baking.

Time and Serving:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Serving Size: This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.

How to Serve Ground Beef Nachos:

1. As an Appetizer: Serve nachos as a fun appetizer for a game day party or casual dinner. Place them in the center of the table and let everyone dig in!
2. For a Full Meal: Add a side of Mexican rice, beans, or a simple salad to turn your nachos into a complete meal.
3. Sharing Plate: For gatherings, put out a big tray of nachos and let everyone customize their own with toppings, making it an interactive and fun dish to enjoy together.

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Large Skillet: To cook the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic.
• Baking Sheet or Oven-Safe Dish: To assemble and bake the nachos.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To break apart the beef while cooking.
• Measuring Spoons: If you’re using homemade taco seasoning, measuring spoons will ensure the right balance of spices.

Storage:

Leftover Ground Beef Nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the nachos on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melty again.

Keep in mind that nachos are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have extra beef mixture left over, you can store it separately and use it in other dishes like tacos, burritos, or as a topping for baked potatoes.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving):

FAQs About Ground Beef Nachos

Final Thoughts:

Ground Beef Nachos are the ultimate comfort food, combining savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy chips into one irresistible dish. Perfect for sharing, they’re a fun, customizable treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply craving a flavorful snack, these nachos are sure to hit the spot. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and variations to make them your own!