Loaded Beef Nachos with Guacamole: The Ultimate Shareable Feast
There’s something universally appealing about a pile of nachos. They are the quintessential party food—a beautiful, messy, and delicious mountain of crispy tortilla chips layered with savory toppings. This recipe for Loaded Beef Nachos with Guacamole is the ultimate version of that classic. It’s a culinary masterpiece that combines perfectly seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a fresh array of vibrant toppings like homemade pico de gallo and creamy guacamole. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, planning a family movie night, or just craving a delicious and hearty snack, these nachos are guaranteed to be the star of the show.
Why I love This Recipe
I’m a huge fan of food that brings people together, and nachos do exactly that. What I love most about this recipe is the way it encourages you to build layers of flavor. The spiced beef, with its hint of chili, cumin, and smoked paprika, provides a deep, savory foundation. The contrast of the warm, melty cheese with the cool, fresh pico de gallo and guacamole is what makes each bite so exciting. I also love the customizable nature of this dish; it’s a blank canvas for whatever toppings you love. Plus, the process is incredibly simple and comes together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the delicious results with friends and family.
Ingredients
For the Nachos:
- 1 bag (about 250g) tortilla chips
- 250g ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup water (or beef broth)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Optional Toppings: Sour cream or Mexican crema, sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
For the Pico de Gallo (Fresh Salsa):
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 jalapeño, finely minced (optional, remove seeds for less heat)
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Pinch of salt
For the Guacamole:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1−2 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp finely diced red onion, 1 tbsp chopped cilantro
Swaps and Notes
- Ground Beef: While ground beef is a classic choice, you can easily swap it for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. You can also use cooked black beans or pinto beans for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Cheese: The shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese is perfect for its melting ability. Feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa is a key component. If you don’t have fresh cilantro, a pinch of dried cilantro will work, but fresh is always best. You can also add some diced cucumber for a refreshing twist.
- Guacamole: The key to a great guacamole is using perfectly ripe avocados and fresh lime juice. The lime juice not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the avocado from browning. A pinch of cumin or garlic powder can also be added for extra flavor.
- Other Toppings: Nachos are a blank canvas. Other delicious topping ideas include: canned black beans, corn, pickled red onions, or a drizzle of a creamy cheese sauce.
List of Steps for the Recipe
- Make the Spiced Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, using a spoon to break it up, until it is browned all over. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is softened, which should take about 3−5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant. Pour in the water or broth, stir well, and let it simmer for 5−7 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated and the beef is well-seasoned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prepare Pico de Gallo & Guacamole: In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, minced jalapeño (if you’re using it), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and set it aside. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocados with a fork. Stir in the lime juice and salt. You can also add optional red onion and cilantro for extra flavor.
- Assemble the Nachos: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the tortilla chips in a single, even layer on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle about half of the shredded cheese over the chips, ensuring it gets down into the layers. Distribute the spiced beef evenly over the cheese layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the beef.
- Bake: Bake the nachos for 5−10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Carefully remove the hot nachos from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter or a large bowl. Generously spoon the fresh pico de gallo over the top. Add a large dollop of guacamole in the center. Drizzle with sour cream or Mexican crema if using, and scatter some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Enjoy: Serve the nachos immediately while they are hot and the cheese is still melty.
Tips for Success
- Spread in a Single Layer: Spreading the tortilla chips in a single layer ensures that every chip gets some of the delicious beef and cheese, preventing a soggy bottom layer.
- Layer the Cheese: Layering the cheese, both on the bottom and the top, ensures that you have a gooey cheese layer throughout the nachos, not just on top.
- Use Ripe Avocados: The key to a great guacamole is using ripe avocados. They should be soft but not mushy.
- Serve Immediately: Nachos are best when served hot and fresh. The crispy chips and warm toppings don’t hold up well over time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These loaded beef nachos are a meal in themselves. For drinks, a cold Mexican beer, a classic margarita on the rocks, or a simple lime-flavored soda would be the perfect complement to the savory and spicy flavors.
Nutritional Information
(Please note that this is an estimate and will vary based on specific brands and portion sizes)
This is a hearty, indulgent meal. The ground beef and cheese provide a good source of protein and fat, while the avocado adds healthy fats. The fresh tomatoes and onions add a dose of vitamins and fiber. While it is higher in calories, it’s a satisfying and delicious meal that is perfect for an occasional treat or a fun party.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Nachos are best served fresh and do not store well once assembled, as the chips become soggy. However, you can store the components separately. The spiced beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pico de gallo and guacamole are best made fresh but can be stored in separate containers for up to a day.
Final Thoughts
These Loaded Beef Nachos with Guacamole are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to bring some fun to your dinner table. The combination of crispy, savory, and fresh flavors is simply unbeatable. I hope you enjoy this ultimate nacho recipe. Let me know in the comments if you added any of your own special toppings!
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