Easy Loaded Nachos

Name: Easy Loaded Nachos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 bag tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1 pound ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 diced jalapeño; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 avocado, sliced; 1/2 cup sour cream; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Easy Loaded Nachos for a quick and satisfying snack or meal! Whenever I'm hosting friends or simply relaxing at home, these nachos come through every time. With layers of crispy tortilla chips topped with gooey cheese, savory beef, and fresh toppings, they always hit the spot. Plus, they are so versatile; you can customize them with your favorite toppings. Let me share how easy it is to whip this up in just a few minutes and enjoy a delightful burst of flavors.

Created by

Chantel Rivers

Last updated on 2026-01-20T02:52:17.412Z

For the longest time, I struggled to get the nacho balance just right—too much cheese and it would be greasy, too little, and it would feel bland. After some experimentation, I found my groove. Using a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a perfect melty blend while fresh toppings bring vibrant color and flavor.

One of my favorite tips is to bake the nachos with the cheese for just a few minutes before adding the fresh ingredients. This ensures that everything melds perfectly together without losing the freshness of the toppings. It's these little touches that make all the difference, and my friends always ask for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crunchy, crispy tortilla chips that hold up to hearty toppings
Customizable layers that cater to every palate
A delicious blend of flavors and textures in every bite

      

The Perfect Base: Tortilla Chips

Choosing the right tortilla chips is crucial for a successful nacho experience. Look for thick, sturdy chips that can hold up under the weight of toppings without becoming soggy. I recommend classic corn tortilla chips, but you can also try blue corn chips for a colorful twist. To enhance the flavor, consider using baked tortilla chips which offer a lighter option without sacrificing crunch.

To maximize crunch, consider baking the tortilla chips for a few minutes before layering them with toppings. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake just until they are lightly golden, which takes about 5-7 minutes. This step can help them better hold the weight of your loaded toppings and prevent sogginess.

Layering for Success

The key to perfect nachos is in the layering. Start with a good base of chips, then distribute the cooked ground beef evenly to ensure every bite has that savory flavor. Following the beef, layer your cheese generously—using both cheddar and Monterey Jack not only provides a great flavor combination but also ensures a gooey melt. When melted together, they create a sticky, cheesy blanket that holds everything in place.

Avoid overloading one part of the nachos to prevent sogginess. If you’re using heavy ingredients like beans or meat, alternate them with lighter elements like cheese and jalapeños. This technique provides a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in each bite. Additionally, if you’re making a large batch, consider using two baking sheets instead of one to ensure even cooking and melting.

Ingredients

For the Nachos

1 bag tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 diced jalapeño
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 avocado, sliced
1/2 cup sour cream
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat then add taco seasoning and a splash of water. Stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Layer the Nachos

On a large baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips. Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef, black beans, and both types of cheese over the chips.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Add Fresh Toppings

Remove the nachos from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add some diced onions or a splash of hot sauce before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing nachos can be a bit tricky since they can become soggy quickly. To store, remove the toppings like sour cream and fresh vegetables before placing the nachos in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted again.

If you prefer to make nachos ahead of time, consider preparing the ground beef and beans in advance. You can store these cooked components in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply layer them on freshly baked tortilla chips and top with cheese, then bake until everything is hot and the cheese is bubbly.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to explore different flavor profiles with your nachos! For a spicy kick, add diced green chilies or use a spicier taco seasoning blend. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils seasoned with the same taco spices, ensuring robust flavor without meat.

You can also switch up the cheeses! Try using pepper jack for added heat, or experiment with vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. Additionally, consider topping your nachos with a drizzle of lime crema, which is simply mixing sour cream with lime juice and zest for a refreshing tang. These variations can elevate your nachos and surprise your tastebuds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these nachos vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetarian crumbles or just load up with more beans and veggies.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can add olives, green onions, or even a drizzle of guacamole for extra flavor.

→ Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?

Yes, you can pre-cook the beef and chop the toppings ahead of time, then just assemble and bake when ready.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.