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Ultimate Nacho

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The Ultimate Nacho is a fully loaded platter of crispy tortilla chips layered with seasoned meat or beans, melted cheese, vibrant salsas, creamy toppings, and fresh garnishes — the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and freshness in every bite.

Ingredients

  • Tortilla chips (sturdy, thick ones)
  • 1/2–3/4 lb ground beef, chicken, or turkey (or plant-based crumbles)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (or mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper)
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced (fresh or pickled)
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey jack)
  • 1/2 cup queso or cheese sauce (optional)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or crema
  • 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
  • 1/2 cup guacamole or sliced avocado
  • Lime wedges, for serving
  • 1/4 cup sliced olives (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a skillet, sauté diced onion over medium heat until soft, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the ground meat (or plant-based substitute) and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer until the mixture is well coated and most of the liquid evaporates.
  5. Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a large oven-safe baking sheet or dish.
  6. Top with half of the cooked meat, black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, tomato, jalapeños, and red onion.
  7. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese. Add queso or cheese sauce if desired.
  8. Bake for 5–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from oven and top with guacamole or avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro, green onions, lime wedges, and olives.
  10. Serve hot and enjoy immediately for best texture.

Notes

  • Use sturdy tortilla chips to hold toppings without getting soggy.
  • For vegetarian nachos, skip meat and double the beans or add roasted vegetables.
  • Prepare toppings ahead but assemble and bake just before serving.
  • Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/ultimate-nacho/