Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef are a crowd-pleasing classic that bring together crispy tortilla chips piled high with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, fresh jalapeños, and all the toppings that make nachos so much fun. You get a mix of crunchy, spicy, cheesy, and meaty all in one big plate that’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
I love making these nachos for game days or casual get-togethers because they’re so easy to customize. Sometimes I add extra beans or swap the ground beef for turkey, but the basic combo of seasoned beef, cheese, and fresh toppings is always a hit in my house. One tip I have is to warm the chips a bit before piling on the toppings so they stay crunchy even after the cheese melts.
Serving these loaded nachos with a side of cool guacamole or a dollop of sour cream really makes them even better. I usually grab a big plate and dig in right away, but they’re also great to serve family-style in the middle of the table. Whenever I make these, it reminds me of laid-back evenings with friends, sharing food and laughs, and that’s as good a reason as any to make nachos anytime you want a simple, satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of your nachos. I like using 80/20 beef for good flavor and juiciness. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Taco Seasoning: Using a packet is easy, but making your own mix with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder tastes fresher. Adjust spices to your liking.
Cheese: Cheddar melts nicely and gives a sharp taste. You can also try a Mexican blend or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier melt.
Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy chips that can hold the toppings without getting soggy. Thick restaurant-style or kettle-cooked chips work best.
Toppings: Fresh diced tomatoes and green onions add brightness. Jalapeño slices bring heat but feel free to skip or use milder peppers.
How Can I Keep the Chips Crispy Under All That Cheese and Toppings?
Keeping chips crispy is key for loaded nachos. Here’s how I do it:
- Spread chips in a single layer: Don’t pile too many chips on top of each other to avoid sogginess.
- Layer toppings thoughtfully: Add the cooked beef and cheese evenly so every chip gets some coverage, but avoid overloading any spot.
- Use a hot oven: Baking at 375°F just long enough to melt cheese (5-8 minutes) keeps the chips from softening too much.
- Add fresh toppings after baking: Put on tomatoes, onions, and sour cream last. This keeps them fresh and prevents excess moisture from seeping into the chips.
Following these steps helps you get that perfect crunch every time you make nachos!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I use it to cook the beef and onions; it’s big enough to hold everything.
- Baking sheet or oven-safe platter – makes it easy to bake the nachos and melt the cheese evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps break up the beef and stir ingredients without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep everything precise, especially when using seasoning and water.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños with ease.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a milder or spicier flavor.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or corn for extra color and texture.
- Top with black beans or pickled jalapeños to customize heat and protein.
Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bag (about 8 oz) tortilla chips
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning mix)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh jalapeño slices (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total—10 to prepare and cook the seasoned ground beef, plus another 5 to 8 minutes to bake the nachos until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a quick and tasty meal or snack you can whip up anytime.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Pour in the water and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the beef is well coated with the seasoning.
3. Assemble and Bake the Nachos:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large oven-safe platter or baking sheet. Evenly distribute the seasoned beef on top of the chips.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef and chips. Bake the nachos in the oven for 5 to 8 minutes, until the cheese has melted and looks bubbly.
4. Add Fresh Toppings and Serve:
Remove the nachos from the oven. Top with diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and jalapeño slices if you like a little heat. Add dollops of sour cream and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious loaded nachos!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps the beef cook evenly and prevents extra moisture from making the nachos soggy.
Can I Make Loaded Nachos Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the seasoned beef a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready, assemble the nachos and bake just before serving to ensure the chips stay crispy.
How Should I Store Leftover Nachos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to help the cheese melt without sogging the chips.
What Are Some Good Customizations for These Nachos?
Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, adding black beans or corn for extra texture, or using different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for varying flavors.
