Loaded Beef Nacho Platter

Name: Loaded Beef Nacho Platter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g tortilla chips; 300g ground beef; 200g shredded cheddar cheese; 100g shredded mozzarella cheese; 100g diced tomatoes; 50g sliced jalapeños; 100g guacamole; 50g sour cream; 30g chopped fresh cilantro; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Party Table Recipes

I love serving a Loaded Beef Nacho Platter during game nights or family gatherings. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, and a melty cheese topping makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. I enjoy customizing the toppings, from spicy jalapeños to creamy guacamole, to suit everyone’s taste. It’s all about layering flavors and textures, and nothing beats diving into this cheesy, savory goodness. Trust me, once you try this nacho platter, you'll never want to go back to plain nachos again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:54:27.998Z

When I first created this Loaded Beef Nacho Platter, I wanted to bring everyone together over something delicious and interactive. I decided to brown some seasoned ground beef and let the toppings fly. It became a hit during our watch parties, and I've perfected the ratios of cheese to toppings over time. The secret? Always use a blend of cheeses for extra flavor!

Not only do I love how versatile this dish is, but it also allows everyone to customize their own nachos. Incorporating fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, and even corn elevates the flavor. Don’t forget the fresh cilantro on top—it really ties everything together!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy tortilla chips topped with perfectly seasoned beef
A melty blend of cheeses that brings everything together
Perfect for sharing at any gathering or casual dinner

      

Choosing the Right Tortilla Chips

The foundation of any great nacho platter is the tortilla chips. Opt for thick-cut, sturdy tortilla chips that can handle the weight of the toppings without breaking under pressure. Avoid flimsy varieties that might crumble. My personal favorite is a corn tortilla chip, as it offers a lovely flavor and texture that complements the savory beef and melty cheese.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own tortilla chips. Simply cut corn tortillas into triangles, fry them in hot oil until golden and crispy, and season with salt. This homemade touch can elevate your nacho experience, providing a fresher taste and a satisfying crunch.

Customizing Your Toppings

The beauty of a Loaded Beef Nacho Platter is the versatility of toppings. Traditional additions like black beans, corn, or diced avocado can enhance your nacho experience and add nutritional value. If you prefer a lighter option, consider swapping out beef for shredded chicken or even a plant-based ground meat, which works wonderfully with the other ingredients.

For those who enjoy a kick, grilled corn or banana peppers can add a unique twist. Alternatively, you can also toss the beef with taco seasoning for an extra flavor boost. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for added spice or a crumbly feta for a tangy twist!

Serving Suggestions and Leftovers

Once your nacho platter is assembled, consider serving it with side dips to enhance the experience. Salsa, pico de gallo, and fresh lime wedges can add brightness to the dish. I like to serve mine on a large platter so everyone can dig in family-style, but individual servings can also create a fun presentation.

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this crowd-pleaser), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheating can be done in the oven at a low temperature to keep the chips crisp, or microwave them for a quick fix, noting that this may make the chips slightly soggy. For best results, consider enjoying them as a ‘loaded’ topping on baked potatoes!

Ingredients

For the Nachos

200g tortilla chips
300g ground beef
200g shredded cheddar cheese
100g shredded mozzarella cheese
100g diced tomatoes
50g sliced jalapeños
100g guacamole
50g sour cream
30g chopped fresh cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to mix and match toppings according to your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Layer the Nachos

On a large baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips evenly. Sprinkle the cooked beef over the chips, followed by the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Add Toppings

Top the nachos with diced tomatoes and sliced jalapeños. Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Serve

Remove from the oven and drizzle with guacamole and sour cream, then garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Loaded Beef Nacho Platter!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, use spicy ground beef or add a dash of hot sauce over the top before serving.

Perfecting the Beef

When browning the ground beef, aim for a nice, even sear for maximum flavor. This means cooking the beef without overcrowding the pan, allowing each piece to have direct contact with the skillet. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat loses its pink color and starts to brown slightly, typically around 5-7 minutes on medium heat. Be sure to drain any excess fat—this keeps your nachos from becoming greasy.

A common issue when making nachos is uneven seasoning. To avoid this, mix seasoning into the beef while it cooks, rather than afterward, ensuring that each bite is flavorful. Don’t hesitate to adjust your seasoning based on personal taste; paprika, cumin, or chili powder can add depth to the flavor profile of the beef.

Layering for Success

Proper layering of your nacho ingredients is crucial for even distribution of flavors and textures. Start with the tortilla chips base, then pile on the beef and cheeses, being sure to spread them out. For the best melt, combine cheeses with varying melt points—cheddar for sharpness and mozzarella for stretch. This mix not only enhances flavor but also creates a visually appealing dish.

To ensure toppings don’t sink into the nachos, add lighter toppings, like diced tomatoes and jalapeños, on top after the cheese has melted. This method keeps the nachos looking appealing and allows for enjoyable texture contrasts without compromising the crunch of the chips.

Nutritional Variations

For a healthier take on your Loaded Beef Nacho Platter, consider substituting lean turkey or chicken for the ground beef. This swap can reduce fat content while still providing a hearty protein source. You can also add in a variety of vegetables like bell peppers or onions to boost fiber and vitamins without sacrificing flavor.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure your tortilla chips are certified gluten-free. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, consider black beans or lentils as a plant-based alternative to beef, which still provides a satisfying texture and nutrient profile while keeping the dish hearty and fulfilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How can I make nachos ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef and layer the chips and cheese beforehand. Just heat them in the oven before serving.

→ What can I serve with nachos?

Pair the nachos with sides like salsa, pico de gallo, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftover nachos?

Store any leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.