Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef are a fun and tasty treat that brings together crispy tortilla chips piled high with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and all the toppings you love. Think black beans, jalapeños, tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream making every bite delightfully messy and full of flavor.
I love making these nachos for family nights or casual get-togethers because they’re so easy to customize. Sometimes I add guacamole or fresh cilantro on top, and other times I like to keep it simple with just cheese and salsa. The best part is watching everyone dig in and grab their favorite toppings—everyone ends up with their own perfect plate.
One tip I’ve found helpful is to warm the chips just a bit before layering the toppings so they stay crisp under the juicy beef and melty cheese. It keeps that satisfying crunch alive even after all the goodies are piled on. Whether it’s for game day or a quick dinner, these loaded nachos always hit the spot and never last long at our table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef because it stays juicy and flavorful after cooking. If you want a leaner version, 90% lean works too, but add a bit of oil when cooking to keep it moist.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought taco seasoning is a time-saver, but making your own blend lets you control the spice level and salt. Feel free to add smoked paprika or cayenne for extra kick.
Cheese: Cheddar melts well and adds a nice sharpness. You can mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or use a Mexican blend for milder flavor. For dairy-free, try a vegan cheese that melts easily.
Toppings: Fresh diced tomatoes and green onions add brightness and crunch. If you don’t like jalapeños, sliced black olives or mild banana peppers are tasty alternatives.
How Do I Keep the Chips Crispy Under All That Topping?
The key to avoiding soggy nachos is layering and timing:
- Warm the chips briefly in the oven before adding toppings to dry out any moisture.
- Use a sturdy baking sheet and spread chips in a single even layer.
- Add cheese and beef in layers, so chips get some protection from moisture.
- Bake just until the cheese melts (8-10 minutes) — longer baking makes chips soft.
- Add fresh toppings like tomatoes and jalapeños after baking to keep their crunch.
I find this method keeps the nachos nice and crispy while still loaded with flavor. Enjoy each bite without sogginess!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet or large oven-safe platter – I use this to spread out the chips and bake everything evenly.
- Skillet – a good non-stick skillet makes cooking the ground beef quick and easy.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for breaking up the beef as it cooks and stirring in the seasoning.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to portion out the cheese, tomatoes, and toppings precisely.
- Optional: Aluminum foil – for easier cleanup and to help keep the nachos crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use shredded cooked chicken or turkey instead of beef for a different protein option.
- Switch up the cheese with pepper jack or mozzarella for a new flavor twist.
- Mix in sliced black olives, chopped cilantro, or avocado for extra freshness and richness.
- Add spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to the beef for more flavor.
Loaded Nachos with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bag (about 10-12 oz) tortilla chips
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend: 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (pickled or fresh)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking and baking. So in around 20 minutes, you’ll have a plate full of delicious loaded nachos ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Stir well and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened. Then remove from heat.
2. Layer the Nachos
Spread half the tortilla chips evenly on a large oven-safe plate or baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the cooked ground beef evenly over the chips. Then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
Repeat the layers: another half of the chips, followed by the remaining beef and cheese.
3. Bake and Add Fresh Toppings
Bake in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and scatter the diced tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños over the top.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your loaded nachos warm with optional sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or cilantro on the side. Grab a handful and enjoy the crunchy, cheesy, meaty goodness with every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture during cooking.
Can I Make Loaded Nachos Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the seasoned beef in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, layer and bake the nachos fresh so the chips stay crispy and toppings stay vibrant.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover components separately if possible—keep the beef in an airtight container in the fridge, and chips in a sealed bag to avoid sogginess. Reheat beef before assembling fresh chips and toppings.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap toppings like black beans, corn, olives, avocado, or different types of cheese. This recipe is very adaptable to your favorite flavors.