Oven-Baked Nachos

Tantalizing and savory, Oven-Baked Nachos are the perfect dish for any gathering! These delicious nachos are layered with seasoned beef, fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and a blend of cheeses, topped off with a zesty lime sour cream. Ideal for game nights, parties, or a cozy family dinner, these nachos combine flavor and fun in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cooking time, these nachos come together quickly.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing, this dish is sure to impress guests at any occasion.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of beef, cheese, and fresh veggies creates an explosion of flavors.
• Perfectly Cheesy: Melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese make every bite irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Oven-Baked Nachos, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (10-inch springform pan)
• Medium-sized skillet
• Small bowl
• Squeeze bottle
• Parchment paper
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A springform pan allows easy assembly and removal of the nachos while providing a great presentation.
• Medium-Sized Skillet: Perfect for cooking ground beef evenly without overcrowding.
• Squeeze Bottle: Helps to apply the lime sour cream sauce precisely over the nachos for added flair.

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Ingredients

Tortilla chips loaded with seasoned beef, diced veggies, avocado, cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese plus a drizzle of tangy lime sour cream…

For the Chips:

• large bags tortilla chips (13oz. bag)

For the Beef:

• lb lean ground beef
• tablespoons taco seasoning

For the Veggies:

• can black beans, drained
• orange pepper, diced
• small red onion, diced
• cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
• from 2 ears of corn
• can black olives, sliced
• can green olives, sliced
• scallions, chopped
• jalapeños, thinly sliced

For the Cheese:

• cups Monterey Jack cheese
• cups cheddar cheese

For Toppings:

• cup sour cream
• of 2 limes (juice)
• teaspoon kosher salt
• avocado, chopped
• tablespoons chopped cilantro

How to Make Oven-Baked Nachos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your nachos will bake evenly for that perfect cheesy goodness.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce

Place sour cream, lime juice, and kosher salt in a small bowl. Stir together until well mixed. Transfer this mixture into a squeeze bottle for easy application later. Refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

In a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the lean ground beef.
2. Break it apart as it cooks.
3. Once it’s no longer pink (about 5–7 minutes), add taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
4. Use a paper towel-lined strainer to remove excess fat from the cooked beef.

Step 4: Assemble the Nachos

1. Cut a length of parchment paper to create a collar inside your springform pan that rises two inches above the top.
2. Sprinkle a handful of tortilla chips evenly across the bottom.
3. Layer with some cooked beef followed by a mix of diced veggies.
4. Top with 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese.
5. Repeat this layering process three more times with alternating cheeses and remaining ingredients.
6. Crush leftover chips and sprinkle them on top along with any remaining meat and veggies.

Step 5: Bake!

Transfer your assembled nachos to the oven:
1. Bake for about 30 minutes or until all cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Carefully remove from oven using oven mitts; place on a large plate.
3. Gently pop open the springform pan and remove it along with the parchment paper.
4. Drizzle lime sour cream over top along with sprinkled avocado and cilantro before serving hot.

Enjoy your homemade Oven-Baked Nachos, perfect for sharing or indulging alone!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Nachos

Oven-baked nachos are not just a meal; they are a delightful sharing experience perfect for gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve and enjoy your delicious nachos.

Pair with Dips

• Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds a refreshing touch that complements the savory flavors of the nachos.
• Salsa: A zesty salsa offers a tangy contrast, enhancing each bite with fresh ingredients.
• Bean Dip: A warm, cheesy bean dip can add an extra layer of flavor and richness to your nacho platter.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh cilantro over the nachos adds brightness and a burst of flavor.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, adding more sliced jalapeños can elevate the spice level.
• Diced Avocado: Fresh diced avocado provides creaminess and balances out the spices beautifully.

Serve with Sides

• Rice: A side of fluffy rice can help round out the meal, making it heartier.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, complementing the texture of the nachos.

How to Perfect Oven-Baked Nachos

Perfecting your oven-baked nachos is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Layering: Create multiple layers of chips, toppings, and cheese. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
• Even Cheddar Melting: Mix Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar for a perfect melt and rich flavor profile.
• Use Quality Chips: Opt for sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up under the weight of toppings without becoming soggy.
• Preheat Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking and melty cheese.

Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Nachos

Serving side dishes alongside your oven-baked nachos can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant dish combines corn, lime, chili powder, and cilantro for a refreshing side.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair perfectly with nachos for added heartiness.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and cilantro complements the flavors in your nachos.
4. Grilled Veggies: Lightly grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and onions bring a smoky flavor that enhances your nacho plate.
5. Avocado Salad: A simple salad featuring diced avocados, tomatoes, and lime dressing offers freshness alongside rich nachos.
6. Tortilla Soup: A warm bowl of tortilla soup can be a comforting addition that balances out the meal’s textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Oven-Baked Nachos from good to great. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale chips: Always use fresh tortilla chips to ensure they stay crispy under the toppings. Stale chips will turn soggy and ruin the dish.
• Overloading with toppings: While it’s tempting to add lots of ingredients, too many will make the nachos soggy. Stick to a balanced amount of meat and veggies.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your ground beef properly. A well-seasoned filling is crucial for flavorful nachos.
• Not layering properly: Layering is key! If you simply pile everything on top, some chips may not get enough toppings. Alternate layers for even distribution.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your nachos while baking. Overcooking can lead to burnt edges while underbaking can leave cheese unmelted.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Layer parchment paper between nacho layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Oven-Baked Nachos

• Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a container for best results.

Reheating Oven-Baked Nachos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted again.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently until warm. This method may result in softer chips.
• Stovetop: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, reheat gently, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Oven-Baked Nachos?

Oven-Baked Nachos are a delicious layering of tortilla chips topped with seasoned beef, cheese, and various veggies baked until crispy and gooey.

Can I customize my Oven-Baked Nachos?

Absolutely! You can swap out meats, add different vegetables, or even go vegetarian by using beans as the protein source.

How do I keep my nachos crispy?

To keep your nachos crispy, avoid overloading them with wet ingredients. Serve immediately after baking for the best texture.

Can I prepare Oven-Baked Nachos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all your ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before baking for a quick meal.

What dips pair well with Oven-Baked Nachos?

Salsa, guacamole, or even a creamy ranch dip complement Oven-Baked Nachos beautifully!

Final Thoughts

These Oven-Baked Nachos are not just easy to make; they are also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize them according to your taste preferences with different proteins or toppings. They are perfect for gatherings or as a cozy family dinner option—give them a try!