Nachos
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Nachos were invented in 1940 by Ignacio 'Nacho' Anaya in Piedras Negras, Mexico, when he quickly assembled a snack for American military wives using tortilla chips, cheese, and jalapeños. This crowd-pleasing appetizer features crispy tortilla chips layered with melted cheese and an array of toppings creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Now a staple at sporting events and casual gatherings worldwide, nachos represent the delicious fusion of Mexican ingredients with American snacking culture.
Time & Quantities
Method & Ingredients
Required Equipment: Large baking sheet, aluminum foil, oven mitts
Cooking Method: Not specified
Ingredients
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend
- 1 can black beans
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 2 jalapeños
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup - your future self will thank you!
- Spread tortilla chips in an even layer on the baking sheet, overlapping slightly.
- Sprinkle half the cheese over the chips.
- Distribute beans and meat (if using) evenly over the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top to create the perfect cheese-to-topping ratio.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is completely melted and edges of chips begin to brown.
- Remove from oven (careful, it's hot enough to make even a dragon uncomfortable!) and immediately top with diced tomatoes, olives, red onion, and jalapeños.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa in separate bowls.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Storage Advice: Best enjoyed immediately. Leftovers become soggy but can be crisped in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips: Prep individual components ahead of time and assemble just before baking. Not suitable for freezing.
Nutritional & Dietary Information
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 28g (Saturated: 12g)
- Carbohydrates: 38g (Fiber: 6g, Sugar: 3g)
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Vitamin C: 10% DV
- Calcium: 30% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Allergen Information: Contains dairy (cheese, sour cream)
Dietary Information: Contains dairy; not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies
Serving & Variations
Serving Suggestions: Serve on a large platter for sharing. For an impressive presentation, use a round plate and arrange toppings in concentric circles of different colors.
Wine or Drink Pairing: Mexican beer with lime or a Margarita is the classic pairing. For wine lovers, a fruity Rosé or Spanish Albariño works well.
Possible Recipe Variations: BBQ Nachos: Use pulled pork with BBQ sauce and coleslaw. Mediterranean Nachos: Top with feta, olives, cucumber, and tzatziki. Breakfast Nachos: Add scrambled eggs and chorizo.
Additional Notes: For best results, use thicker restaurant-style tortilla chips that won't get soggy quickly.
Hice estos nachos para ver el fútbol con amigos y fueron un éxito rotundo! La capa de queso quedó perfecta y me gustó la idea de poner ingredientes en capas para que todos los chips tengan algo. Agregué jalapeños en escabeche para darle un toque picante.
Good basic recipe. Nice idea for lunch.