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Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This will help make the nachos easier to handle after baking and reduce mess.
Step 2: Cook the Meat and Onion
Heat olive oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle a little olive oil.
Cook the onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 6 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
Cook the ground beef: Push the onions to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef (or substitute meat). Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for about 6 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasy nachos.
Step 3: Season the Meat
Season the beef: Add salt and 2 teaspoons of taco seasoning to the cooked beef. Stir well to ensure the meat is fully coated with the seasoning.
Add garlic: Stir in 1 clove of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
Add refried beans and water: Stir in 1 can of refried beans and ⅓ cup of water. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates a flavorful and creamy base for the nachos.
Step 4: Assemble the Nachos
Layer the tortilla chips: Spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are distributed in a single layer to ensure even coverage with the toppings.
Add the first layer of toppings: Spoon half of the beef and bean mixture over the chips, ensuring each chip gets a bit of topping to avoid “naked chips.” Then, sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
Add the second layer: Add another layer of tortilla chips on top of the first layer. Spoon the remaining beef and bean mixture evenly over the second layer, then sprinkle the remaining cheese.
Top with jalapenos: Scatter pickled jalapenos over the top for a little kick of heat. You can adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
Step 5: Bake the Nachos
Bake the nachos: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling, and the edges of the chips are crispy.
Step 6: Add Fresh Toppings
Remove from the oven: Once the nachos are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly.
Add fresh toppings: Drizzle sour cream over the nachos. Top with chopped tomatoes, diced avocado, scallions, and fresh cilantro. These fresh toppings add texture and brightness to the dish.
Optional garnishes: Serve with hot sauce and lime slices for extra flavor. The lime juice adds a zesty tang that complements the richness of the cheese and beef.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot: Transfer the nachos to a serving platter or keep them on the baking sheet for a more casual presentation. Serve them hot and enjoy!
Cooking Tips
Prevent soggy nachos: To avoid soggy nachos, make sure the toppings are spread out evenly and don’t overload any one area with too many wet ingredients. Using a thicker tortilla chip can also help prevent sogginess.
Customize your toppings: Nachos are versatile, so feel free to customize your toppings to your liking. Add ingredients like black beans, corn, sliced olives, or shredded lettuce.
Vegetarian option: To make vegetarian nachos, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu, black beans, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Keep chips crisp: If you want extra crispy nachos, bake the chips in the oven for 5 minutes before adding the toppings. This step helps keep the chips from becoming soggy under the toppings.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg
Sodium: 800 mg
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 3 g
Calcium: 300 mg
Iron: 3 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make nachos ahead of time?
Nachos are best when served immediately after baking. However, you can prep the meat and bean mixture ahead of time and assemble the nachos just before baking.
How do I reheat leftover nachos?
To reheat nachos, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the nachos soggy.
Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Nachos are versatile, and you can add other toppings like black beans, corn, jalapeños, or olives. You can even drizzle queso or add guacamole for extra flavor.
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu as a substitute for ground beef. Adjust the seasonings as needed to suit the meat or protein you’re using.
How do I keep nachos crispy when serving?
Serve the nachos on a preheated baking sheet or keep them on the baking sheet you used in the oven. This helps retain the heat and keeps the chips crispy for a longer period.
Conclusion
Loaded Beef Nachos are the perfect dish for any occasion, combining the richness of seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and melted cheese with the freshness of toppings like tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a game day snack, or preparing a quick family meal, these nachos are guaranteed to satisfy everyone. The layers of crispy tortilla chips, gooey cheese, and flavorful meat make each bite irresistible. Customize the toppings to your liking and serve hot with sides of salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce for a complete meal that’s sure to become a favorite!