Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos
Nachos are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy chips with savory toppings for a deliciously satisfying experience. Today, we’re diving into a recipe for Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for game day, movie nights, or a fun family dinner, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your flavor preferences. Let’s get started on this mouthwatering journey!
The Upside of Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos
What’s not to love about nachos? They are versatile, shareable, and downright delicious. The Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos bring together seasoned ground beef, a medley of toppings, and crispy tortilla chips, all melted together into a cheesy delight. You can easily adjust the heat level, making it suitable for everyone from spice lovers to those who prefer a milder flavor. Plus, they can be made in under 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
What to Buy
To make your Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos, here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 pound lean ground beef (I used 90% lean)
- 1-ounce packet taco seasoning (I used medium heat, reduced sodium)
- 8 cups corn tortilla chips (I used Hint of Lime)
- 1 13-ounce jar Cowboy Caviar or a thick black bean, corn, red pepper salsa
- 2 to 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 2 green onions, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 to 2 tablespoons cilantro, minced (or to taste)
Hardware & Gadgets
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your nachos a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for even cooking.
- Spatula: For stirring and breaking up the ground beef.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To accurately measure your ingredients.
- Serving platter: To present your nachos beautifully.
Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos Made Stepwise
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. If you’re using lean ground beef, the olive oil is optional. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the taco seasoning. Follow the package instructions, adding water if needed. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 3: Assemble the Nachos
Reduce the heat to low. Layer the tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the skillet. Then, spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the chips, ensuring every chip gets some love.
Step 4: Add the Cowboy Caviar
Next, add the Cowboy Caviar or your chosen salsa, distributing it evenly over the beef and chips.
Step 5: Cheese, Please!
Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend generously over the top, ensuring every chip is covered.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the nachos with sliced green onions and minced cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and melty!
Ingredient Flex Options
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas to customize your Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos:
- Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives.
- Cheese: Try different cheese blends like pepper jack for a spicier kick or cheddar for a classic flavor.
- Vegetables: Add jalapeños, bell peppers, or black olives for extra texture and flavor.
- Salsa: Experiment with different salsas or even homemade pico de gallo for freshness.
Mistakes Even Pros Make
Creating the perfect Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos can be a breeze, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overloading with toppings: While it’s tempting to pile on the toppings, too many can make your nachos soggy.
- Using stale chips: Fresh, crispy chips are key to a great nacho experience. Make sure your tortilla chips are fresh.
- Not melting the cheese properly: Covering the skillet is essential for melting the cheese evenly—don’t skip this step!
- Using too much seasoning: While flavor is important, overseasoning can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the packet instructions for taco seasoning.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you’re planning to make Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos ahead of time or have leftovers, here are some tips:
For meal prep, you can cook the ground beef and prepare the toppings in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your nachos, simply assemble and heat them in the skillet.
If you have leftovers, store the nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results, as microwaving can make the chips soggy.
Popular Questions
Can I make Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, black beans, or a meat alternative. You can still use all the delicious toppings!
What can I serve with nachos?
Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos pair wonderfully with sides like guacamole, sour cream, or fresh salsa. You can also serve them with a side of fresh veggies for a crunchy contrast.
Can I use different types of chips?
Yes! While corn tortilla chips are traditional, you can use any kind of chip you like. Try sweet potato chips or even pita chips for a unique twist!
How do I make nachos spicier?
To add some heat, consider using spicy taco seasoning, adding sliced jalapeños, or incorporating a spicy salsa. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!
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The Last Word
Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos are not just a dish; they are an experience. With their melty cheese, seasoned beef, and vibrant toppings, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is bound to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, bring out your skillet, and get ready to indulge in one of the most delicious comfort foods around. Happy cooking!
Loaded Beef Skillet Nachos
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional
- 1 pound lean ground beef 90% lean
- 1 ounce taco seasoning medium heat, reduced sodium
- 8 cups corn tortilla chips Hint of Lime
- 13 ounce Cowboy Caviar or a thick black bean, corn, red pepper salsa
- 2 to 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 2 green onions sliced into thin rounds
- 1 to 2 tablespoons cilantro minced (or to taste)
Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. If you’re using lean ground beef, the olive oil is optional. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the beef is cooked through, stir in the taco seasoning. Follow the package instructions, adding water if needed. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Reduce the heat to low. Layer the tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of the skillet. Then, spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the chips, ensuring every chip gets some love.
- Next, add the Cowboy Caviar or your chosen salsa, distributing it evenly over the beef and chips.
- Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend generously over the top, ensuring every chip is covered.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Once the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the nachos with sliced green onions and minced cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and melty!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Serving Platter
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with plant-based proteins like lentils or black beans.
- Use fresh, crispy tortilla chips to avoid sogginess.
- Covering the skillet is essential to melt the cheese evenly.
- Store leftover toppings separately and reheat in the oven for best results.
- Customize with different cheeses, salsas, or additional veggies like jalapeños for extra flavor.
