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Savory Loaded Beef Nachos Recipe with Creamy Queso

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A quick and easy recipe for loaded beef nachos topped with creamy queso, perfect for game nights, casual get-togethers, or a comforting snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • ½ cup whole milk or cream
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 large bag (10–12 oz) sturdy tortilla chips
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 avocado, sliced or diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine cubed Velveeta cheese and milk over low heat. Stir constantly until cheese melts into a smooth sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Add garlic powder, chopped jalapeño (if using), and cayenne pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
  7. On a large serving platter or oven-safe dish, spread a layer of tortilla chips. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chips.
  8. Spoon dollops of seasoned beef on top, then drizzle generously with warm queso.
  9. Optional: Place under a preheated broiler for 2-3 minutes for extra melty cheese, watching closely to avoid burning.
  10. Scatter diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro over the top. Finish with dollops of sour cream.
  11. Serve immediately while chips are crisp and queso is creamy.

Notes

Use thick, sturdy tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Layer chips, cheese, beef, and queso to keep chips crispy. Reheat queso gently with a splash of milk if it thickens. Serve immediately for best texture. For dairy-free queso, substitute Velveeta and milk with cashew-based cheese sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef nachos, loaded nachos, creamy queso, snack recipe, game night food, easy nachos, Mexican snack

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/savory-loaded-beef-nachos-recipe-with-creamy-queso-easy-perfect-snack-ideas/