Campfire Nachos – How to Grill Nachos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These campfire nachos are a game changer for outdoor cooking. Loaded with melted cheese, crispy tortilla chips, savory toppings, and the smoky flavor from grilling, they bring the perfect balance of crunchy and gooey. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or having a backyard barbecue, grilling nachos over a campfire is a fun and delicious way to elevate your snack time. This simple yet flavorful dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser!

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Tortilla chips
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
• Cooked and crumbled ground beef or chicken (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Black olives
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream (for serving)
• Salsa (for serving)
• Guacamole (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare your fire: Start by building a campfire and letting it burn down to a manageable heat. You want glowing embers, not a full flame.
2. Create a base layer: Lay down a layer of tortilla chips on a large, heat-safe sheet of aluminum foil. This will act as your “base” for the nachos.
3. Add toppings: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the chips. Then, add your choice of protein (ground beef or chicken), jalapeños, tomatoes, red onions, black olives, and any other desired toppings.
4. Grill the nachos: Carefully place the foil on the grill or directly over the fire on a grate. Cover with another layer of foil or a grill lid. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
5. Finishing touches: Once your nachos are grilled to perfection, remove them from the heat. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes enough for 4-6 servings, depending on portion size.

• Prep time: 5-10 minutes
• Cook time: 10-15 minutes over the grill

Variations

• Vegetarian Nachos: Skip the meat and load up with more vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or black beans.
• Spicy Nachos: Add hot sauce, or try some spicy cheese for an extra kick.
• Seafood Nachos: Replace the ground meat with grilled shrimp or crab for a seafood twist.
• Sweet and Savory Nachos: Add a handful of pineapple or mango chunks for a tropical flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Since nachos are best served fresh, it’s difficult to store leftovers without losing the crispy texture. However, if you have any leftover nachos, you can:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Place the nachos on a baking sheet and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, until the cheese melts again.

FAQs

How do I prevent my nachos from getting soggy?

To keep your nachos crispy, make sure to layer the chips well and don’t overload with wet toppings like salsa or guacamole before grilling. Serve those on the side.

Can I make these nachos without a campfire?

Yes! You can easily make campfire nachos on a grill or in a regular oven. Just follow the same instructions, adjusting the heat source accordingly.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese will melt better and give a creamier texture to your nachos. We recommend shredding it yourself for the best results.

How can I make these nachos spicier?

For extra heat, you can add more jalapeños, drizzle with hot sauce, or opt for a spicier cheese like pepper jack.

What should I serve with these nachos?

Serve with a refreshing drink like iced tea or soda, and a side of salsa, guacamole, or even a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the nachos.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the toppings and proteins ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just layer them on the chips and grill when you’re ready to eat.

What type of cheese works best for grilled nachos?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of both work best for a nice melty texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or a spicy cheese blend.

Can I add beans to my nachos?

Yes, black beans or pinto beans are a great addition to nachos, especially if you’re looking for a heartier, vegetarian option.

Can I use a cast iron skillet instead of foil?

Yes, a cast iron skillet works great for grilling nachos and will hold the heat well. Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.

Can I make nachos without meat?

Definitely! You can make vegetarian nachos with just the cheese and toppings, or you can add other plant-based proteins like beans or tofu.

Conclusion

Campfire nachos are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic snack with a smoky, grilled twist. They’re easy to prepare, customizable to your taste, and perfect for sharing with friends and family around the fire. Whether you’re camping or grilling in the backyard, this recipe is sure to become a favorite go-to treat!

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