Name: Loaded Nachos: The Perfect Weekend Meal Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 large bag (12-16 ounces) tortilla chips (restaurant-style thick preferred); 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend); 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet (1.25 ounces) taco seasoning; 1/2 cup water; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional); 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Mexican cheese blend); 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup guacamole (homemade or store-bought); 1 cup salsa (homemade or store-bought); 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, sliced (adjust to taste); 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup sliced green onions; Optional: Diced tomatoes, black olives, queso fresco

Ingredients

1 large bag (12-16 ounces) tortilla chips (restaurant-style thick preferred)

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet (1.25 ounces) taco seasoning

1/2 cup water

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained (optional)

1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)

1 cup sour cream

1 cup guacamole (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup salsa (homemade or store-bought)

1/2 cup pickled jalapeños, sliced (adjust to taste)

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1/4 cup sliced green onions

Optional: Diced tomatoes, black olives, queso fresco

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the black beans, kidney beans (if using), and corn. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to melt the cheese in the oven.

Step 6: Spread the tortilla chips evenly in a single layer on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter.

Step 7: Spoon the beef and bean mixture evenly over the chips.

Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the beef mixture.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes or broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 10: Remove from the oven and add dollops of sour cream and guacamole. Spoon salsa on top, then sprinkle with pickled jalapeños, fresh cilantro, and green onions. Add any additional toppings you like.

Step 11: Serve the nachos immediately to enjoy them warm and fresh.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, skip the ground beef and add extra beans or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.

Use a Mexican cheese blend for a more authentic flavor, or substitute with mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste.

Adjust the spice level by adding fresh jalapeños or hot sauce instead of pickled jalapeños.

If you want crispier chips, bake the nachos on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to allow air circulation.

FAQs

Can I make loaded nachos ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef mixture and toppings ahead, but it’s best to assemble and bake the nachos just before serving to keep the chips crispy.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream if you prefer a lighter option or need a dairy-free version, just check for plant-based varieties if needed.