Loaded Beef Nachos with Fresh Pico de Gallo

📌 Description

These Loaded Beef Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer — crispy tortilla chips layered with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and topped with fresh homemade pico de gallo. Perfect for game day snacks, party appetizers, Super Bowl recipes, or even a fun family dinner.

This recipe delivers restaurant-style nachos at home with bold Tex-Mex flavors, gooey cheese pulls, and fresh toppings that balance richness with brightness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving comfort food, these nachos are guaranteed to impress.

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For the Beef:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for flavor)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)

• ¼ cup water

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Nachos:

• 1 large bag tortilla chips (thick-cut recommended)

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese (optional for extra melt)

For the Fresh Pico de Gallo:

• 3 ripe tomatoes, diced

• ½ red onion, finely chopped

• 1 jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of 1 lime

• Salt to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream

• Guacamole

• Sliced black olives

• Pickled jalapeños

• Refried beans

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

4. Drain excess fat.

5. Stir in garlic, taco seasoning, and water.

6. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 2: Prepare Pico de Gallo

In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Mix well and refrigerate while preparing nachos.

Step 3: Assemble Nachos

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Spread tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet.

3. Spoon seasoned beef over chips.

4. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 8–10 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Top & Serve

Remove from oven and immediately top with fresh pico de gallo. Add sour cream or guacamole if desired. Serve hot.

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🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Nachos

• Use thick, sturdy chips to prevent sogginess.

• Layer chips, beef, and cheese in two tiers for even coverage.

• Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for golden bubbly cheese.

• Add fresh toppings only after baking to maintain texture.

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🥗 Nutritional Snapshot (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 450–550 kcal

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 35g

• Fat: 28g

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🌮 Variations

1️⃣ Chicken Nachos

Substitute ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken.

2️⃣ Vegetarian Nachos

Replace meat with black beans, pinto beans, or grilled vegetables.

3️⃣ Spicy Nachos Supreme

Add hot sauce, extra jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese.

4️⃣ Low-Carb Version

Swap tortilla chips for baked zucchini rounds or bell pepper slices.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you keep nachos from getting soggy?

Use thick tortilla chips and bake before adding fresh toppings. Avoid watery ingredients during baking.

2. What’s the best cheese for nachos?

Sharp cheddar melts well and provides bold flavor. Monterey Jack or pepper jack enhance creaminess.

3. Can I make nachos ahead of time?

Prepare beef and pico in advance, but assemble and bake just before serving.

4. How do you reheat leftover nachos?

Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep chips crispy.

5. Are beef nachos good for parties?

Absolutely! They’re one of the most popular game day appetizers and can be customized easily.