Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe

Tortilla chips: The base of the nachos, providing a crunchy texture.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, creamy flavor and melts beautifully over the chips.

Cooked ground beef: Provides a savory, meaty element to the nachos.

Black beans: Adds a hearty, protein-rich component.

Sliced jalapenos: Brings a spicy kick to the dish.

Sour cream: Adds a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy and savory elements.

Salsa: Provides a fresh, zesty flavor.

Chopped cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and color.

When spreading the tortilla chips on the sheet pan, make sure to create an even layer without overlapping too much. This ensures that each chip gets a good amount of shredded cheddar cheese and toppings, resulting in a more balanced and flavorful bite.

• tortilla chips - Substitute with pita chips: Pita chips offer a similar crunch and can hold toppings well.

• tortilla chips - Substitute with sweet potato chips: Sweet potato chips add a unique flavor and are a healthier option.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that complements nachos.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese is a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

• cooked ground beef - Substitute with shredded chicken: Shredded chicken provides a different texture and is a leaner protein option.

• cooked ground beef - Substitute with black beans: Black beans are a great vegetarian alternative that adds protein and fiber.

• rinsed and drained black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and flavor profile.

• rinsed and drained black beans - Substitute with chickpeas: Chickpeas offer a different texture and are packed with protein.

• sliced jalapenos - Substitute with banana peppers: Banana peppers are milder and add a tangy flavor.

• sliced jalapenos - Substitute with bell peppers: Bell peppers provide a sweet crunch without the heat.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier option that offers a similar creamy texture.

• sour cream - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole adds a rich, creamy texture and a different flavor profile.

• salsa - Substitute with pico de gallo: Pico de gallo is a fresh, chunky alternative that adds a burst of flavor.

• salsa - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used for a smoother, less chunky option.

• chopped cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a similar fresh, green flavor without the distinct taste of cilantro.

• chopped cilantro - Substitute with green onions: Green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

• Allow the nachos to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the tortilla chips soggy.

• Transfer the nachos to an airtight container. If you have any toppings like sour cream or salsa, it's best to store them separately to maintain the texture of the chips.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The nachos will keep for up to 2-3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

• For freezing, place the cooled nachos in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the nachos to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and contents. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• To reheat frozen nachos, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the nachos on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

• If you have any fresh toppings like cilantro or jalapenos, add them after reheating to maintain their freshness and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover tortilla chips on a sheet pan and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from getting too crispy. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.

• If you're in a hurry, use the microwave. Place the nachos on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For an extra crispy option, use a skillet. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the nachos. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla chips are crispy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the nachos in the basket in a single layer and heat for about 3-5 minutes. This method will keep the tortilla chips crispy while melting the cheese perfectly.

• For a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Place the nachos in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover the bowl with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the nachos are heated through.

• Oven: Used to bake the nachos until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Sheet pan: The base where you spread the tortilla chips and layer all the ingredients.

• Spatula: Useful for spreading the ground beef and black beans evenly over the chips.

• Measuring cups: Essential for measuring out the shredded cheddar cheese, black beans, sour cream, salsa, and chopped cilantro.

• Knife: Needed for slicing the jalapenos and chopping the cilantro.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing jalapenos and chopping cilantro.

• Mixing bowl: Can be used to mix the ground beef and black beans together before spreading them on the chips.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely removing the hot sheet pan from the oven.

• Serving platter: Optional, but useful for transferring the nachos from the sheet pan to the table for serving.

Pre-cook ingredients: Cook the ground beef and rinse the black beans ahead of time to save prep time.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to skip the grating step.

Sheet pan lining: Line your sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while you gather ingredients to save time.

Organize toppings: Have all your toppings like sour cream, salsa, and cilantro ready to go before you start assembling.