Oven-Baked Nachos

Oven-Baked Nachos are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion, whether it be game day, a family movie night, or just a cozy dinner at home. This recipe takes crispy tortilla chips and layers them with seasoned beef, vibrant veggies, creamy avocado, and a melty cheese blend. Topped off with zesty lime sour cream, these nachos are an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious dish in no time.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the toppings and spices to suit your taste; this recipe is versatile enough for everyone.
• Perfect for Sharing: Designed to serve eight people, it’s an ideal choice for gatherings and celebrations.
• Deliciously Filling: Loaded with protein and veggies, these nachos are satisfying enough to be a meal on their own.
• Kid-Friendly: The fun presentation and tasty ingredients make it appealing for kids of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To make perfect Oven-Baked Nachos, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Springform pan
• Medium-sized skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Squeeze bottle (for sauce)
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Springform pan: This unique pan allows you to create layered nachos while making it easy to serve without mess.
• Medium-sized skillet: Perfect for cooking ground beef evenly and ensuring it’s well-seasoned.
• Squeeze bottle: Ideal for applying the sour cream sauce neatly over the finished nachos.

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 Base

• large bags tortilla chips (13oz. bag)
• lb lean ground beef
• tablespoons taco seasoning

For the Toppings

• 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
• cups Monterey Jack cheese
• cups cheddar cheese

For the Sauce

• cup sour cream
• of 2 limes (juice)
• teaspoon kosher salt

For Garnish

• avocado, chopped
• tablespoons chopped cilantro

How to Make Oven-Baked Nachos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your nachos bake evenly when it’s time to cook.

Step 2: Prepare Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Stir until well mixed. Transfer this mixture into a squeeze bottle for easy application later. Refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Place your medium-sized skillet on medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it up as it cooks. Once it’s browned and no longer pink, mix in the taco seasoning. Cook for another minute before transferring it to a paper towel-lined strainer to drain excess fat.

Step 4: Assemble the Nachos

Cut a length of parchment paper that wraps around the inside of a 10-inch springform pan and rises about two inches above the top. Start by sprinkling a handful of tortilla chips into the bottom of your prepared pan. Layer on a handful of cooked beef followed by a small handful of diced vegetables. Top this layer with one cup of Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat this layering process three more times using different cheeses as desired. Use any remaining crushed chips on top along with leftover meat and veggies.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Place your assembled nachos in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until all cheese is thoroughly melted. Carefully remove from oven using oven mitts and place onto a large round plate. Gently pop open the springform pan and peel away any parchment paper used in assembly. Drizzle your prepared sour cream sauce across the top along with fresh avocado pieces and chopped cilantro before serving immediately.

These Oven-Baked Nachos promise flavor-packed layers that will have everyone coming back for more! Enjoy!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Nachos

Oven-Baked Nachos are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, serving options can enhance the experience.

Individual Portions

• Serve each person a small plate with a portion of nachos topped with their favorite ingredients. This allows everyone to customize their toppings.

Family Style

• Place the entire pan of nachos at the center of the table. Provide serving utensils so everyone can help themselves, creating a shared experience.

Game Day Snack

• Perfect for game day! Serve your Oven-Baked Nachos alongside an array of dipping sauces like guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for guests to enjoy during the big match.

Movie Night Treat

• Pair your nachos with popcorn and soft drinks for a cozy movie night at home. Load them up with cheese and toppings for that extra indulgence.

Party Platter

• Create a vibrant party platter by placing Oven-Baked Nachos next to other finger foods like veggie sticks and quesadillas. It makes an appealing spread for guests.

How to Perfect Oven-Baked Nachos

Making perfect Oven-Baked Nachos requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and ripe avocados for enhanced flavor and texture in your nachos.
• Layer wisely: Spread out layers evenly to ensure every bite contains meat, cheese, and toppings.
• Don’t overload: Too many toppings can lead to soggy chips. Keep it balanced for the best crunch.
• Choose quality cheese: Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties for better meltability and flavor.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your nachos as they bake. Over-baking can lead to burnt edges while under-baking may leave cheese unmelted.

Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Nachos

Oven-Baked Nachos pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness and pairs perfectly with crunchy nachos.
2. Fresh Salsa: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that brings zesty flavors to your meal.
3. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A tangy salad made with corn, lime, and spices, offering a sweet crunch alongside your nachos.
4. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad featuring black beans, corn, and avocado for added texture.
5. Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: Stuffed jalapeños filled with cheese make for a spicy side that complements the nacho experience.
6. Quesadillas: Cheesy tortillas grilled until golden brown offer another cheesy delight that pairs well with the main dish.
7. Rice and Beans: Simple yet flavorful, this classic combination provides heartiness and balances out the meal.
8. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies served with dip provide a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with cheesy nachos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Oven-Baked Nachos, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overloading with toppings: Adding too many toppings can lead to soggy nachos. Stick to a balanced amount of meat, veggies, and cheese.
• Using stale chips: Old tortilla chips will not provide the desired crunch. Always use fresh chips for the best texture.
• Neglecting layering: Skipping layers of ingredients can result in uneven flavors. Layer your nachos to ensure every bite is delicious.
• Ignoring cooking time: Baking them for too long can lead to burnt edges. Keep an eye on them and remove them once the cheese is melted.
• Forgetting the sauce: A drizzle of sauce adds flavor and moisture. Don’t skip this step; make sure to prepare and use your lime sour cream!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover nachos in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep the sour cream separate to maintain its freshness.

Freezing Oven-Baked Nachos

• Freeze nachos without toppings in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
• For best results, assemble and bake fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating Oven-Baked Nachos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Oven-Baked Nachos.

Can I make Oven-Baked Nachos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients but bake them right before serving for optimal freshness.

What type of cheese works best for Oven-Baked Nachos?

Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese are excellent choices as they melt well and add great flavor.

Can I customize my Oven-Baked Nachos?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like black beans or different vegetables.

How do I keep my nachos crispy?

Layering ingredients properly and baking for the right amount of time helps keep nachos crisp.

What can I serve with my Oven-Baked Nachos?

Consider pairing them with salsa, guacamole, or additional dips for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Oven-Baked Nachos are a delightful dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various toppings and sauces according to your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a deliciously cheesy treat!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Oven-Baked Nachos

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Oven-Baked Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish, perfect for any occasion from game day to family movie nights. This recipe features crispy tortilla chips layered with seasoned lean beef, vibrant vegetables, creamy avocado, and a melty blend of cheeses, all topped with zesty lime sour cream. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit everyone’s taste, these delicious nachos promise to be the star of your gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• Tortilla chips
• Lean ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Black beans
• Diced orange pepper
• Diced red onion
• Sliced cherry tomatoes
• Sweet corn kernels
• Sliced black olives
• Sliced green olives
• Chopped scallions
• Thinly sliced jalapeños
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Juice of 2 limes
• Chopped avocado
• Chopped cilantro

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix sour cream, lime juice, and salt; refrigerate.
3. Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned; stir in taco seasoning.
4. Line a springform pan with parchment paper; layer tortilla chips, beef, veggies, and cheese four times.
5. Bake for 30 minutes until cheese is melted. Drizzle with sour cream sauce and top with avocado and cilantro before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of the nacho platter
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg