Traditional Nachos

πŸ•’ Prep: 10 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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There's something irresistible about a plate of traditional nachos. This recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy night in or a lively get-together. It's the ultimate crowd-pleaser, balancing savory, spicy, and creamy elements.

Ingredients for Traditional Nachos

The foundation of this recipe is, of course, the tortilla chips. They provide the necessary crunch and structure to hold all those delicious toppings. Next, we have the ground beef, which brings meaty richness to the dish. Seasoning it with a taco seasoning packet gives it a Mexican-inspired kick without any fuss.

For gooey goodness, we use shredded cheddar cheese, which melts beautifully over the layers. Refried beans add a creamy texture and a bit of heft. Our toppings – sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and pickled jalapenos – each contribute a unique flavor and a burst of color. Finally, sour cream and chopped cilantro are served on the side for a finishing touch of creaminess and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

  • Warm your refried beans slightly before spreading them on the chips for easier distribution.
  • For extra crispy nachos, toast the chips in the oven for a few minutes before adding toppings.
  • Layering is key: don’t pile everything on at once; spread it out for even coverage.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these nachos with a zesty margarita or a crisp Mexican lager. For a full meal, serve alongside a fresh avocado salad or a bowl of spicy salsa. If you're feeling indulgent, top with guacamole for an extra creamy touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these nachos vegetarian?
Absolutely! Sub the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans for a hearty, vegetarian version.
How can I store leftover nachos?
Naturally, nachos are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to regain some crispness.

Traditional Nachos Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350Β°F. While that's heating up, grab a skillet and brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to stir it occasionally to get an even color. Once it's cooked through, drain any excess fat to keep your nachos from getting greasy. Mix in the taco seasoning, ensuring the beef is well-coated with those lovely spices, then set it aside.

Next, spread the tortilla chips out on a large baking sheet. You want a nice even layer so each chip gets its share of toppings. Spoon the refried beans over the chips, followed by the seasoned beef. Don't worry about getting everything perfectly distributed – a bit of rustic charm is part of the nachos' appeal. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, making sure it covers as much of the surface as possible.

Pop the tray into the oven and let it bake for about 10 minutes. You're looking for the cheese to melt and start bubbling slightly. Once that's done, take the nachos out and immediately scatter the sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and pickled jalapenos over the top. These toppings add freshness, color, and a kick of heat.

Finally, serve your nachos with a side of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for those who want a cool, creamy contrast to the spiciness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare – perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  • Customizable toppings to suit any taste.
  • A delightful combination of crunchy, cheesy, and zesty flavors.
  • Uses simple, readily available ingredients.

Ingredients

12 oz tortilla chips
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup refried beans
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup pickled jalapenos
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350Β°F.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add taco seasoning to the beef and stir until well mixed, then set aside.
4. Spread the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet.
5. Evenly distribute refried beans, seasoned beef, and shredded cheese over the chips.
6. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and top with olives, tomatoes, green onions, jalapenos, and cilantro.
8. Serve with sour cream on the side.

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