Loaded Ground Beef Nachos: A Beginner-Friendly Delight

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to cook the ground beef. You can substitute it with vegetable or avocado oil.
• 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef: The star of the dish. You can swap this for ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
• 15 ounces (440 grams) pinto beans, drained and rinsed: Adds texture and protein. You can replace these with black beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans for a creamier consistency.
• 1/2 cup chunky salsa: Adds flavor and moisture to the beef mixture. Any type of salsa works—mild, medium, or spicy, depending on your preference.
• 2 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Provides a bold, smoky flavor. Use a store-bought blend or make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
• 1/2 cup water: Helps create a saucy consistency for the beef mixture. You can use beef or chicken broth for added flavor.
• 16 ounces (450 grams) tortilla chips: The base of the nachos. Opt for sturdy chips that won’t crumble under the toppings.
• 15 ounces (440 grams) nacho cheese sauce: A creamy topping that ties everything together. Homemade cheese sauce is highly recommended for freshness and flavor.

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Ground Beef Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).

3. 3

   Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then return it to the stovetop.

4. 4

   Season the Beef Mixture Add the pinto beans, salsa, taco seasoning, and ½ cup of water to the skillet.

5. 5

   Stir everything together and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly. If it looks too dry, add a splash more water.

6. 6

   Once the beef mixture is saucy and well-seasoned, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

7. 7

   Assemble the Nachos Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

8. 8

   On a large baking sheet lined with foil (for easy cleanup), spread half of the tortilla chips in a single layer.

9. 9

   Spoon half of the beef mixture evenly over the chips.

10. 10

    Add the remaining chips on top, followed by the rest of the beef mixture.

11. 11

    Add the Cheese Sauce Warm the nacho cheese sauce over low heat on the stovetop or follow the package directions.

12. 12

    Drizzle the warm cheese sauce generously over the layered nachos.

13. 13

    Add Toppings Finish your nachos with your favorite toppings. Suggestions include pickled jalapeños, pico de gallo, sour cream, guacamole, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro.

14. 14

    Serve Immediately Nachos are best served hot and fresh, so dig in right away!