Taco Beef Nachos
Taco beef nachos are a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the bold, zesty tastes of taco night to your snack table. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy night at home.
Why Make This Recipe
Taco beef nachos are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be customized to fit different dietary preferences, and they require minimal prep time while maximizing flavor. Perfect for sharing, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and allows for creativity in toppings and accompaniments. Whether you’re watching a movie, hosting friends, or just want a tasty snack, taco beef nachos deliver satisfaction with every crunchy bite.
How to Make Taco Beef Nachos
Making taco beef nachos is straightforward and quick. With a few key ingredients and just a bit of time, you can create a dish that’s not only appealing but also bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 250g lean beef steak mince (5 percent fat)
- 30g taco seasoning
- 400g tin black beans
- 4 tbsp mild salsa dip
- 270g lightly salted tortilla chips
- 150g cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 50g sliced jalapeños in brine, drained
- 100g grated mozzarella and Cheddar mix
- 1 red chili, finely sliced
- 2 spring onions, finely sliced
- 200g sour cream and chive dip
Directions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and fry for about 5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
- Add the lean beef mince to the frying pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Fry for another 5 minutes until the beef is golden brown.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the spices are toasted and aromatic.
- Pour in the black beans along with their water, and cook for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the mild salsa dip, mixing thoroughly.
- Arrange the tortilla chips on a large baking tray, spacing out some of the chips on the edges for toppings.
- Spoon the beef taco mixture generously onto the tortilla chips, ensuring some chips are left naked for a crunchy bite.
- Sprinkle cherry tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and the cheese mix over the nachos.
- Place the tray under the grill for roughly 5 minutes, or until the nachos are crispy and the cheese is melted to bubbly perfection.
- Finally, sprinkle the sliced red chili and spring onions over the top. Serve hot with a generous side of sour cream and chive dip.
Pro Tips for Success with Taco Beef Nachos
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and homemade salsa make a tremendous difference. If you have time, consider making your own salsa for a fresher taste.
- Layer Wisely: When arranging your nachos, create layers. Start with a base of tortilla chips, add a layer of beef, then add cheeses and vegetables for the best texture.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leaving some chips plain allows for ergonomic grabbing and prevents the nachos from becoming too soggy.
- Use a Broiler: If you like your nachos extra crispy, switching to the broiler for the last minute can provide a nice crunch.
- Watch the Grill: Keep a close eye on your nachos under the grill to prevent burning.
Flavor Variations for Taco Beef Nachos
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate spicy taco seasoning or add diced habanero peppers for more heat.
- Vegetarian Style: Substitute the beef with lentils or black bean patties for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Cheesy Bliss: Use a blend of various cheeses, such as pepper jack or queso fresco, to create a richer flavor.
- Deliciously Sweet: Add a few slices of sweet corn or even some diced mango for a unique twist.
- Guacamole Heaven: Top your nachos with fresh guacamole instead of sour cream for an avocado lover’s delight.
Serving Suggestions for Taco Beef Nachos
Taco beef nachos are best served hot, straight from the oven, but here are some complementary items to enhance your experience:
- Pair them with a refreshing cold beverage such as iced tea, soda, or a light beer.
- Serve with sides of salsa, guacamole, and jalapeños for guests to customize their nachos.
- A light salad or coleslaw can balance out the richness of the nachos.
- Offer a selection of dips, like queso dip, to elevate the flavor profiles even further.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Taco Beef Nachos
If you happen to have leftovers (which rarely happens!), store them in the refrigerator. Keep the nacho components separate; store the beef mixture in an airtight container and the tortilla chips in a ziplock bag to maintain their crunch. To reheat, place the beef in a frying pan, and serve it warm over freshly baked tortilla chips.
For freezing, you can store the beef filling in portions. It can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQ About Taco Beef Nachos
Can I make taco beef nachos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mashed and set aside the components. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the nachos and bake them. This makes it a perfect dish for a party where you want to minimize your stress in the kitchen.
What can I use instead of beef in taco nachos?
There are plenty of alternatives to beef for taco nachos! You can use ground turkey, grilled chicken, black beans, lentils, or even a mix of your favorite vegetables to achieve a delicious flavor profile while keeping it plant-based.
Are taco beef nachos healthy?
While they can be deliciously indulgent, taco beef nachos can be made healthier with a few swaps. Opt for lean meats, load up on veggies, use whole-grain tortilla chips, and control the cheese quantities. Enjoy them as a fun treat within a balanced diet!
How do I prevent my nachos from getting soggy?
To keep your nachos from getting soggy, layer your toppings carefully and serve the hot beef mixture on top only when you’re ready to eat. Baking the nachos just before serving also ensures that they retain their crunch.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! While a blend of mozzarella and Cheddar offers a classic nacho flavor, feel free to experiment with cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a mix of cream cheese for a richer texture.
Final Thoughts
Taco beef nachos have a way of bringing people together, creating a fun atmosphere filled with delicious flavors and plenty of crunchy goodness. They’re an excellent dish for various occasions and can be tailored to suit anyone’s preferences. With the ease of preparation and an array of options for customization, this recipe guarantees enjoyment for the whole family or any gathering. So grab your ingredients, gather around your loved ones, and let the nacho feasting begin!
Print
Taco Beef Nachos
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: None
Description
Taco beef nachos are a delightful and flavorful dish that brings the bold, zesty tastes of taco night to your snack table. Perfect for parties and game days.
Ingredients
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 250g lean beef steak mince (5 percent fat)
- 30g taco seasoning
- 400g tin black beans
- 4 tbsp mild salsa dip
- 270g lightly salted tortilla chips
- 150g cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 50g sliced jalapeños in brine, drained
- 100g grated mozzarella and Cheddar mix
- 1 red chili, finely sliced
- 2 spring onions, finely sliced
- 200g sour cream and chive dip
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and fry for about 5 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
- Add the lean beef mince to the frying pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Fry for another 5 minutes until the beef is golden brown.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the spices are toasted and aromatic.
- Pour in the black beans along with their water, and cook for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the mild salsa dip, mixing thoroughly.
- Arrange the tortilla chips on a large baking tray, spacing out some of the chips on the edges for toppings.
- Spoon the beef taco mixture generously onto the tortilla chips, ensuring some chips are left naked for a crunchy bite.
- Sprinkle cherry tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and the cheese mix over the nachos.
- Place the tray under the grill for roughly 5 minutes, or until the nachos are crispy and the cheese is melted to bubbly perfection.
- Finally, sprinkle the sliced red chili and spring onions over the top. Serve hot with a generous side of sour cream and chive dip.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Layer toppings wisely to prevent sogginess. Consider making your own salsa for a fresher option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican