The Best Loaded Beef Nachos Recipe
If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that’s quick to whip up and perfect for sharing—whether for a big crowd or just for yourself—then TRUST ME you're going to want to try these Loaded Beef Nachos! With layers of crunchy tortilla chips, deliciously seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and fresh toppings, this dish is sure to be loved by anyone you make it for.
Did I mention that these nachos are incredibly quick to make? They take just 20 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re getting ready for the big game, hosting friends, or simply craving a satisfying snack, this easy nachos recipe will quickly become your go-to.
Let's dive into this deliciously easy recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, black olives, and more!
Perfect for Sharing: Serve it up for game day or a casual weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these loaded beef nachos, gather the following simple ingredients:
1 bag tortilla chips
1 cup black beans (refried or whole—your choice)
1 lb taco-seasoned ground beef (recipe below)
2 cups Pico de Gallo (divided)
2 cups Mexican-blend cheese, grated (or a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack)
1 cup guacamole
½ cup sour cream mixed with the juice of 1 lime
¼ cup scallions, chopped
Note: Feel free to use your favorite toppings—nachos are super customizable! I’ve also included a list of substitutions and add-ins below, so you can tailor the toppings to your preferences or what you have on hand.
Taco-Seasoned Ground Meat:
1 lb ground beef (or ground meat of choice)
1 teaspoon avocado oil
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
How to Make Loaded Beef Nachos
Prepare the Taco Meat
Begin by letting the ground beef reach room temperature by leaving it on the counter for about 10 minutes.
Heat a hot skillet over medium heat and add 1 teaspoon of avocado oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned—about 10 minutes.
Stir in the taco seasoning to your desired taste and set the beef aside.
Assemble the Nachos
Line your air fryer basket with foil or parchment paper.
Start with an even layer of tortilla chips at the bottom of the basket.
Layer on half of the black beans, taco-seasoned meat, Pico de Gallo, and cheese.
Repeat the layers with more chips, black beans, taco meat, Pico de Gallo, and cheese.
Air Fry the Nachos
Air fry the nachos at 400°F for 6-8 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges are crispy. Be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning. (Oven instructions are provided below.)
Serve and Top
Carefully transfer the nachos to a serving plate, using the foil to lift them out of the air fryer.
Top with guacamole, the remaining Pico de Gallo, sour cream, green onions, and any other favorite nacho toppings like jalapeño slices, black olives, or cotija cheese.
Serve immediately with lime wedges for extra zest!
Oven-Baked Nachos Option
Don’t have an air fryer? No problem! You can easily make these loaded beef nachos in the oven. Here's how:
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.Assemble the Nachos
Spread an even layer of tortilla chips on the baking sheet, then top with half of the black beans, taco-seasoned meat, Pico de Gallo, and cheese. Repeat with another layer to build up your nachos.Bake the Nachos
Bake the nachos for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are lightly golden and crispy.Serve
Carefully transfer the nachos to a serving plate. Top with guacamole, the remaining Pico de Gallo, lime-sour cream, and scallions. Serve immediately!
Add-Ins
Customize your loaded beef nachos with these tasty extras:
Jalapeños: Fresh or pickled for some heat.
Olives: Add sliced black or green olives for a salty kick.
Salsa: Drizzle with salsa or salsa verde for extra flavor.
Hot Sauce: Spice it up with your favorite hot sauce.
Extra Taco Seasoning: For more zest, sprinkle additional taco seasoning on the meat.
Substitutions
Tortilla Chips
Pita chips: Thicker, chewier texture.
Baked chips: A lower-fat option.
Veggie chips: Healthier, colorful alternative.
Black Beans
Pinto beans: Similar texture.
Kidney beans: Firmer and heartier.
Lentils: A unique, protein-packed twist.
Taco-Seasoned Meat
Ground chicken, turkey, or pork: Leaner meats.
Plant-based ground: Vegetarian option.
Rotisserie chicken: Quick and easy swap.
Pico de Gallo
Salsa: Fresh or verde varieties work well.
Canned diced tomatoes: Quick mix with onions and cilantro.
Cheese
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack: Perfect melty substitutes.
Vegan cheese: Dairy-free option.
Cotija cheese: Crumbly and salty.
Guacamole
Sliced avocado: A faster alternative.
Store-bought guac: For convenience.
Greek yogurt + avocado: Lighter option.
Sour Cream
Greek yogurt + lime: High-protein and tangy.
Dairy-free sour cream: Vegan-friendly.
Scallions
Red or white onions: Stronger flavor.
Chives: Milder alternative.
Cilantro: Fresh and herby.
Jazz's Tips for The Perfect Nachos
Top Tip: Layer your nachos carefully to avoid soggy chips. Spread out the ingredients evenly for perfect nacho bites!
Leftover Nachos: While nachos are best fresh, you can store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer for a crisp texture.
Using a Baking Sheet: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these nachos on a cookie sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes.
What to Serve with Nachos
Enhance your nacho experience with these tasty sides:
Easy Chicken & Black Bean Enchiladas
Flavorful enchiladas filled with chicken and black beans make a hearty addition.Easy Tropical Ceviche de Mango
Refreshing and vibrant, this mango ceviche adds a sweet and tangy contrast.Easy Vegan Black Bean Air Fryer Tacos
Crunchy, plant-based tacos packed with flavor make a great pairing.Fluffy Rice
A side of fluffy rice complements nachos perfectly and adds nice texture.
Jazz’s Recommended Products
Cosori Air Fryer: This air fryer gives you perfectly crispy nachos in no time!
FAQs
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It's best to make these homemade nachos right before serving. Prepping ahead can lead to soggy nachos, but you can cook the meat and chop your toppings ahead of time.
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Yes! You can use any combination of cheeses. Pepper Jack, Monterey Jack, and Colby cheese are all great options. If you prefer a nacho cheese sauce, drizzle it over the chips after baking.
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Reheat leftover nachos in the air fryer or oven to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy.
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Absolutely! Skip the ground beef and use extra black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans as your protein base.
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Get creative! Add jalapeño slices, black olives, green chiles, or even corn tortillas for extra flavor and texture.
There you have it—your new go-to recipe for the best loaded beef nachos you’ll ever have! Whether you’re enjoying them on a weeknight or hosting a game day party, this tray of nachos is sure to be a hit. Packed with simple ingredients, plenty of cheese, and your favorite toppings, this is a dish you’ll return to again and again.
The Best Loaded Beef Nachos Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 1 cup black beans (refried or whole, your choice)
- 1 lb taco-seasoned ground meat (recipe below)
- 2 cups Pico de Gallo (divided)
- 2 cups Mexican-blend cheese, grated
- 1 cup guacamole
- ½ cup sour cream with juice of 1 lime
- ¼ cup scallions, chopped
Instructions
- Cook: Brown ground beef with taco seasoning.
- Assemble: Layer tortilla chips, black beans, beef, Pico de Gallo, and cheese in an air fryer basket or baking sheet.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes or bake in the oven at 400°F for 8-10 minutes.
- Serve: Top with guacamole, sour cream, scallions, and desired toppings.
- Enjoy!
