These 15-Minute Dinner Nachos Supreme are the ultimate easy-to-make snack or dinner option. Featuring crispy tortilla chips, melted cheddar cheese, and a combination of flavorful toppings like black beans, sour cream, salsa, and avocado, these nachos are perfect for sharing with friends and family. You can also add ground beef for an extra layer of heartiness, making them a full meal in no time.
What’s more, this recipe is extremely versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Add jalapeños for a spicy kick, swap out the sour cream for guacamole, or include extra toppings like corn or pico de gallo. Whether you’re preparing a quick meal for yourself or feeding a crowd, these nachos are sure to satisfy.
Full Recipe:
- 1 (14.5 ounce) package tortilla chips
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 pound ground beef (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter.
- Sprinkle the black beans over the chips.
- If using ground beef, brown it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain the excess fat.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chips and beans.
- Add the cooked ground beef (if using) on top of the cheese.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the oven and top with sour cream, salsa, black olives, jalapeños, green onions, and diced avocado.
- Serve immediately, enjoy!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Background and Versatility:
Nachos have become a beloved staple in Tex-Mex cuisine, originally created in the 1940s in Mexico. These 15-Minute Dinner Nachos Supreme take this classic dish to the next level with layers of textures and flavors, making it both a comforting weeknight meal and an impressive snack for gatherings. What sets this recipe apart is its speed and flexibility—it’s easy to make, yet loaded with ingredients that cater to a variety of tastes.
You can customize the nachos with a wide array of toppings, from the basic essentials like cheese and salsa to heartier additions like seasoned ground beef or even chicken. For vegetarians, the beans and cheese provide enough protein, while toppings like avocado and jalapeños add creaminess and heat. This adaptability makes nachos a go-to dish for parties, casual dinners, or even movie nights.
Nutritional Benefits:
Though nachos are often considered indulgent, this recipe contains several ingredients that pack nutritional value. The black beans offer plant-based protein and fiber, while the avocado provides healthy fats and essential vitamins like potassium and vitamin E. By using baked tortilla chips and opting for low-fat cheese or sour cream, you can reduce the calorie count while still maintaining the dish’s rich flavors.
Additionally, adding fresh toppings like green onions and salsa gives the nachos a dose of antioxidants and fresh flavors that balance out the richness of the melted cheese and savory beef (if used). For a healthier spin, you could also substitute ground beef with leaner proteins such as turkey or plant-based alternatives.
Tips for Perfect Nachos:
- Layering: For perfectly melted cheese and evenly distributed toppings, be sure to spread the ingredients in layers. Start with chips, then add cheese and beans before repeating with more chips and toppings. This ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
- Crisp Chips: To prevent soggy nachos, bake the chips for a few minutes in the oven before adding the toppings. This makes them extra crispy and able to hold the weight of the ingredients.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with various toppings. Try adding corn, jalapeños, pico de gallo, or even a drizzle of chipotle sauce for a smoky twist.
- Balance of Flavors: Since nachos are inherently rich, using fresh ingredients like lime juice, cilantro, or pickled jalapeños can add brightness and cut through the creaminess.
Pairing Ideas:
Serve these nachos with refreshing sides like:
- Guacamole: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Pico de Gallo: Provides a fresh, tangy contrast to the richness.
- Margaritas: A perfect pairing for Tex-Mex flavors.
History of Nachos:
Nachos have a fascinating origin story that dates back to the 1940s. The dish was reportedly invented by Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya in the Mexican town of Piedras Negras. One evening, a group of American military wives visited the restaurant where Anaya worked, but the kitchen was nearly out of ingredients. In a pinch, Anaya created a snack using what he had left: tortilla chips, melted cheese, and sliced jalapeños. This simple but delicious dish quickly became popular, and the name “Nachos” was born. Over time, the dish has evolved, with modern versions featuring a wide variety of toppings and serving styles.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer:
The 15-Minute Dinner Nachos Supreme recipe is a standout for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: As the name suggests, this recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you don’t have much time but still want something hearty and satisfying.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since most of the preparation involves assembling ingredients on a single baking sheet, cleanup is quick and easy. You can even serve the nachos directly from the baking tray for a casual, no-fuss meal.
- Customizable for All Diets: Whether you’re hosting guests with dietary restrictions or simply looking for a versatile meal, these nachos can be easily adapted. Swap out the ground beef for seasoned tofu or shredded jackfruit for a plant-based alternative. Replace sour cream with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option, and use low-fat cheese to keep the dish lighter.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Nachos are perfect for casual gatherings, parties, or game nights. They can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, depending on how you load them up. Everyone can customize their own plate with their favorite toppings, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Nutritional Breakdown:
This recipe, while indulgent, offers a balance of nutrients if prepared thoughtfully. Here’s a closer look at the key ingredients:
- Black Beans: Rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, black beans are a great plant-based protein source. They also help keep you full longer, making the dish more satisfying.
- Avocado: Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, potassium, and vitamins like C, E, and K. They add a creamy texture without the need for extra dairy.
- Tortilla Chips: You can opt for baked or whole-grain tortilla chips to make the dish more nutritious, adding fiber while cutting down on unnecessary fats.
- Cheddar Cheese: Cheese adds calcium and protein but can also increase the calorie and fat content. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, use reduced-fat cheese or sprinkle less cheese and add more veggies.
- Salsa: Store-bought or homemade salsa provides a low-calorie burst of flavor. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health.
Fun Variations:
If you’re looking to spice up the basic nacho recipe, here are a few fun variations to try:
- BBQ Chicken Nachos: Replace ground beef with shredded BBQ chicken, and top with jalapeños, red onions, and cilantro for a smoky-sweet flavor.
- Buffalo Chicken Nachos: Add shredded buffalo chicken and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing. This adds a tangy, spicy twist that fans of buffalo wings will love.
- Nacho Fries: Swap tortilla chips with baked potato wedges or sweet potato fries for a fun and hearty twist on traditional nachos.
- Breakfast Nachos: Add scrambled eggs, crumbled bacon, and breakfast sausage on top of the nachos. Finish with cheddar cheese and salsa for a unique brunch option.
- Vegan Nachos: Use dairy-free cheese and top with black beans, corn, avocado, and a cashew cream drizzle. These nachos are packed with flavor and texture without any animal products.
Toppings to Elevate Your Nachos:
The beauty of nachos lies in the limitless combinations of toppings you can use. Here are some topping ideas to take your nachos to the next level:
- Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love heat, pickled jalapeños add a tangy, spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy cheese.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice can lighten up the dish and add a burst of acidity.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream adds cool creaminess, balancing the spice. Greek yogurt is a great lower-fat alternative.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole not only adds flavor but also a healthy dose of fats, fiber, and vitamins.
- Chili or Ground Beef: If you’re looking to add more protein, chili or seasoned ground beef can transform these nachos from a snack into a full meal.
- Hot Sauce: For those who crave extra heat, a dash of your favorite hot sauce can intensify the flavor and provide a zesty kick.
Serving Ideas:
- For a Party: Nachos are great as a shareable appetizer. You can serve them in individual portions or on a large platter for a buffet-style spread. For added fun, create a nacho bar where guests can pick and choose their own toppings.
- Family Dinner: These nachos are a hit for family meals because they’re easy to customize. Kids can go for milder flavors, while adults can load up on spicier ingredients.
- Game Day: Whether it’s the Super Bowl or just a casual game night with friends, nachos are a classic snack that pairs well with other finger foods like sliders, wings, or dips.
Storage and Reheating:
While nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can store leftovers for up to two days. Place the nachos in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, it’s best to use an oven or air fryer to restore the crispiness of the tortilla chips, as microwaving can make them soggy. Spread the nachos out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the chips are crisp again.
Conclusion:
The 15-Minute Dinner Nachos Supreme offers a quick, versatile, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a movie night, or need a fast weeknight dinner, these nachos can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. With a balance of rich flavors, textures, and a variety of topping options, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.