Ohio Nachos are a fun twist on the classic dish! Picture crispy chips loaded with melted cheese, spicy jalapeños, and toppings like chorizo or pulled pork. Yum!
Every time I make them, I can’t help but pile on the toppings. It’s like a party on a plate! Perfect for game night or just when you want something tasty and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Choose thick-cut tortilla chips to hold all the toppings. If you’re gluten-free, look for chips labeled as such. Personally, I love using blue corn chips for a twist in flavor and color!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar offers great flavor, but you can mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick. I often use a blend of cheeses for the perfect melt!
Chili: Cincinnati-style chili adds a unique flavor with its spices. If you can’t find it, any meat or bean chili will work. Or try a vegetarian version with lentils for a hearty touch.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re looking for a healthier option. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with protein. I prefer sour cream for the extra richness!
Chives: Fresh chives add a nice crunch and flavor. If you don’t have them, green onions or even cilantro can add brightness to the dish.
How Do I Make Sure My Nachos Don’t Get Soggy?
Keeping nachos crunchy is key to enjoying them! Here are some tips:
- Start with a single layer of chips. Avoid stacking; this helps them stay crispy.
- Don’t overload them with wet toppings before baking. Add things like sour cream or guacamole after baking.
- Serve immediately! Nachos are best enjoyed right out of the oven while the cheese is melted and the chips stay crunchy.
These simple steps will help you create delicious Ohio Nachos every time! Enjoy the process and customize to your taste!
How to Make Ohio Nachos?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large bag of tortilla chips
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup chili (preferably Cincinnati-style chili)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp chives, finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need 10 minutes to bake the nachos, plus a few minutes for preparation. It’s a quick and tasty snack that’s perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the cheese melts perfectly while baking.
2. Prepare the Chips:
Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large oven-safe platter or baking sheet. Make sure the chips form a nice, single layer so they bake evenly!
3. Add the Chili:
Spoon dollops of chili evenly over the chips. Be generous, but try not to soak the chips completely; you want them to stay nice and crunchy!
4. Sprinkle the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chips and chili. The more cheese, the better!
5. Bake:
Place the platter in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so nothing burns!
6. Add Sour Cream:
Remove the nachos from the oven and immediately add small dollops of sour cream evenly over the top. This adds a creamy texture that’s simply delightful.
7. Garnish:
Finish it off by garnishing with finely chopped chives. They add a lovely flavor and a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Ohio Nachos immediately while hot so everyone can enjoy them fresh out of the oven. Dig in and have fun with this tasty treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is traditional, you can mix in Monterey Jack for a creamier texture or pepper jack for some heat. Just make sure to shred it for even melting!
What Can I Substitute for Chili?
If you don’t have Cincinnati-style chili, any meat or bean chili will work just fine. You can even make a vegetarian option using lentils and spices. Just ensure it’s thick enough to avoid soggy chips!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble and bake the nachos just before serving. This way, they’ll stay crispy and delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use the oven to restore the crispiness, bringing them back to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes!
