Ground Beef Nachos
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Deliciously cheesy and loaded with flavor, these ground beef nachos are perfect for game day or a cozy night in.
Ground beef nachos are a classic dish that combines savory flavors with a satisfying crunch. Perfect for sharing, this recipe brings together seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and a medley of toppings, making it an unbeatable snack or meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Melty cheese that pulls with every bite
- Savory ground beef seasoned to perfection
- Customizable with your favorite toppings
A Game Day Favorite
Ground beef nachos are not just a meal; they are an experience, especially when it comes to game day. Gather your friends and family around the TV, and serve these cheesy delights as you cheer on your favorite team. The combination of flavors and textures in every bite is sure to keep everyone satisfied throughout the match.
With layers of savory ground beef and gooey melted cheese atop crispy tortilla chips, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, making it an ideal choice for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Just set up a nacho bar with all the toppings, and let everyone customize their plates!
Customizable for Everyone
One of the best aspects of ground beef nachos is their versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit different dietary preferences or personal tastes. If you have guests who prefer chicken, turkey, or even a vegetarian option, simply swap the ground beef for your protein of choice. The taco seasoning works beautifully with various meats, ensuring that everyone gets their fill.
Moreover, the toppings are where the fun really begins. From classic jalapeños and diced tomatoes to black olives, corn, or even a drizzle of hot sauce, the possibilities are endless. Encourage your guests to get creative with their nacho creations, making the meal an interactive and enjoyable experience.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your ground beef nachos further, consider serving them alongside a variety of dips and salsas. A fresh pico de gallo or a zesty corn salsa can add an extra burst of flavor. Additionally, a side of refried beans or a hearty chili can complement the nachos, making for a more complete meal.
Don’t forget the drinks! Pair your nachos with refreshing beverages like homemade lemonade, iced tea, or even some chilled beer for the adults. This combination will create a festive atmosphere, whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a night in.
Ingredients
For the Nachos
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 oz tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup guacamole
Feel free to add or substitute any toppings to suit your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
Season the Beef
Add taco seasoning to the beef, along with a little water as directed on the seasoning packet. Stir until well combined and simmer for a few minutes.
Assemble the Nachos
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips. Top with seasoned beef and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Bake
Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Add Toppings
Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and green onions. Serve immediately with sour cream and guacamole on the side.
Enjoy your delicious ground beef nachos!
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. While nachos are best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat them in the oven to restore some of the crispy texture. Just remember to cover them loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from becoming too hard.
To make your meal prep easier, consider preparing the ground beef mixture ahead of time. You can cook and season the beef, then store it in the fridge until you're ready to assemble your nachos. This way, when the craving strikes, you can quickly put everything together and get to the enjoyable part—eating!
Nutritional Information
Ground beef nachos can vary in nutritional content based on the ingredients and toppings you choose. Typically, a serving will provide a good amount of protein from the beef and calcium from the cheese. However, be mindful of portion sizes, especially with high-calorie toppings like sour cream and guacamole.
To make this dish healthier, consider using lean ground beef, reduced-fat cheese, and loading up on fresh veggies. These small adjustments can significantly lower the calorie count while still delivering a delicious and satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these nachos ahead of time?
It's best to assemble and bake them just before serving to keep the chips crispy. However, you can prepare the beef in advance and store it in the fridge.
→ What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
→ How do I store leftover nachos?
Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. They may lose some crunch when reheated.
→ Can I freeze the nachos?
It's best to freeze the seasoned beef separately. Once thawed, reassemble and bake the nachos with fresh chips.
Ground Beef Nachos
Deliciously cheesy and loaded with flavor, these ground beef nachos are perfect for game day or a cozy night in.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Nachos
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 oz tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup guacamole
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
Add taco seasoning to the beef, along with a little water as directed on the seasoning packet. Stir until well combined and simmer for a few minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips. Top with seasoned beef and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and green onions. Serve immediately with sour cream and guacamole on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g