Sheet pan nachos are a fun and delicious treat! Just layer some crispy tortilla chips with cheese, beans, and your favorite toppings, then pop them in the oven.
It’s like having a mini party on a tray! I love loading mine up with jalapeños and guacamole. Perfect for movie night or whenever you feel snacky! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy tortilla chips to hold up under all the toppings. If you want a healthier option, try baked chips. Homemade tortilla chips can also be a fun project if you’re feeling adventurous!
Ground Beef or Shredded Chicken: Ground turkey or black beans are great substitutes for a leaner option or for vegetarians. Chickpeas also work beautifully! I often mix things up depending on what I have on hand.
Taco Seasoning: A packet is easy, but you can make your own with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. I prefer homemade for the extra flavor and control over ingredients.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice sharpness, but feel free to use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. Vegan cheese is a good alternative if you’re avoiding dairy, and it melts well!
How Do You Get Perfectly Melted Cheese on Nachos?
The key to gooey cheese is layering it right. Start with a good base of chips, and then build your topping layers thoughtfully. You want the cheese to cover the meat and beans to trap heat and moisture.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F for a good melt.
- Spread cheese evenly over toppings before baking. This ensures every chip gets cheesy.
- Keep an eye on it while it bakes; about 10 minutes should do the trick! It’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden.
For even more flavor, you can add cheese in layers as you build your nachos. Enjoy your cheesy masterpiece!
Sheet Pan Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Nachos:
- 1 large bag of tortilla chips (about 10-12 oz)
- 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning mix)
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- For the Toppings:
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 fresh jalapeños, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients, and then around 10 minutes for baking. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish to enjoy these tasty nachos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your nachos get nice and toasty!
2. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or shredded chicken until it’s fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your nachos won’t be greasy!
3. Add Seasoning:
Now, stir in the taco seasoning and add a splash of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the meat is well coated and most of the liquid has evaporated. Then, take it off the heat.
4. Layer the Nachos:
On a large sheet pan, spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. Make sure they are nicely arranged for even coverage.
5. Add the Meat:
Evenly distribute the cooked meat over the chips so every bite has some deliciousness!
6. Top with Beans and Corn:
Sprinkle the black beans and corn kernels generously across your nachos. This adds flavor and great texture!
7. Cheese It Up:
Now, it’s time to generously cover everything with the shredded cheese. The more, the merrier!
8. Bake the Nachos:
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
9. Add Fresh Toppings:
Once baked, remove your nachos from the oven and top them with dollops of sour cream, diced tomato, red onion, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro. This will add a lovely freshness!
10. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your colorful and flavorful sheet pan nachos immediately with lime wedges on the side for some zesty goodness. Enjoy your snack party!
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, crumbled tofu, or even keep it entirely meatless with extra beans or lentils for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for different proteins.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and toppings in advance! Simply assemble everything but the cheese and bake it when you’re ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy fresh nachos without the hassle during your event.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Be aware that nachos may lose some crispiness when reheated.
Can I Use Homemade Tortilla Chips?
Definitely! Homemade tortilla chips can add a great personal touch. Just cut corn tortillas into triangles, lightly brush them with oil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until crisp and golden before assembling your nachos.
