Print

Crispy Loaded Beef Nachos Recipe with Creamy Queso

crispy loaded beef nachos - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy recipe for crispy loaded beef nachos topped with a rich, velvety queso sauce, perfect for parties and game nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (seeded for less heat)
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 large bag (about 10 oz) sturdy tortilla chips
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
  • 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen (thawed)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and slightly golden. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook another 2 minutes. Set aside.
  4. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
  5. Slowly add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until mixture thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese gradually until melted and smooth.
  7. Add diced jalapeño, garlic powder, cayenne (if using), and salt to taste. Stir and remove from heat.
  8. Spread half of the tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet or oven-safe platter. Spoon half of the cooked beef over the chips, then sprinkle half of the black beans and corn.
  9. Drizzle half of the queso over this layer. Repeat with remaining chips, beef, beans, corn, and queso.
  10. Place assembled nachos under a broiler for 2–3 minutes until queso bubbles and chips get extra crispy.
  11. Remove from oven and top with diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and avocado. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Notes

Use thick, sturdy tortilla chips to avoid sogginess. Layer ingredients carefully and broil briefly to crisp chips and melt cheese. Reheat queso gently with a splash of milk if it thickens. For gluten-free, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: nachos, beef nachos, loaded nachos, queso, party food, game day snacks, creamy queso, crispy chips

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/crispy-loaded-beef-nachos-recipe-with-creamy-queso-easy-and-perfect-for-parties/