Ingredients

For the spice mix:

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon granulated garlic

1 teaspoon granulated onion
1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

For the nachos:

1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1 pound ground beef (80:20 lean-to-fat ratio)

16 ounces (2 cups) refried beans, canned or homemade
1/4 cup water
1 large bag of tortilla chips

4 ounces cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 cups), plus more for topping
4 ounces Colby Jack cheese, grated (about 2 cups), plus more for topping
1 cup pico de gallo, store-bought or homemade, plus more for topping

1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 jalapeño (pickled or fresh), sliced

Optional toppings:

Guacamole
Salsa
Sour cream

Canned black olives
Sliced green onions
Shredded lettuce

Corn
Hot sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Make the taco spice blend by combining all the spices—from chili powder through cayenne pepper—in a small bowl.

Step 3: Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef and season it with the taco spice blend. Break the meat into crumbles as it cooks.

Step 4: Cook the beef for about 8 minutes until browned, then drain the fat using a colander.

Step 5: Return the beef to the pan and stir in the refried beans and water. Heat until smooth and warmed through. Keep the mixture on low heat while preparing the chips.

Step 6: Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a 13×18-inch oven-safe platter or sheet pan, overlapping slightly. Toast in the oven for 5 minutes until aromatic.

Step 7: Remove the chips from the oven and sprinkle half of the shredded cheeses over them. Let the heat melt the cheese slightly before adding the beef and bean mixture.

Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, then return the pan to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.

Step 9: Remove from oven and top with pico de gallo, cilantro, jalapeño slices, and any optional toppings you prefer. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra zest, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the nachos just before serving.

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef to lighten the dish.

Make your own refried beans to control seasoning and texture.

Try adding black beans or corn to the beef mixture for more variety and fiber.

If you like it spicy, add extra jalapeños or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce.

FAQs

Can I make these nachos vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the ground beef and add extra beans, sautéed vegetables, or a plant-based meat substitute to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

What’s the best way to keep tortilla chips crunchy?

Toast the chips briefly before assembling the nachos, as outlined in the recipe. Avoid adding wet ingredients like salsa or sour cream until serving to maintain crispness.