Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, packed with layers of crunchy tortilla chips, gooey melted cheese, and a variety of flavorful toppings. Perfect for game nights, parties, or a quick family dinner, this easy recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it a great last-minute meal.
Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for gatherings, movie nights, or as a fun dinner option.
Minimal cleanup: Everything bakes on one sheet pan for easy cleanup.

Ingredients

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

Tortilla chips
Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
Cooked ground beef or shredded chicken
Black beans, drained and rinsed
Diced tomatoes
Sliced jalapeños
Diced red onions
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sour cream
Guacamole
Salsa

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a large sheet pan.
Sprinkle cheese evenly over the chips, followed by the cooked meat, black beans, tomatoes, jalapeños, and onions.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa on the side.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add extra beans or roasted veggies.
Spicy: Add extra jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Loaded with protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken or steak instead of ground beef.
Tex-Mex twist: Add corn, black olives, or pickled onions for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To maintain crispness, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chips soggy.

FAQs

How do I keep nachos from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, use thick tortilla chips and avoid overloading with wet toppings before baking. Add fresh toppings after baking.

Can I make nachos ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble nachos just before baking. However, you can prep ingredients ahead for faster assembly.

What type of cheese is best for nachos?

A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well because they melt smoothly and add great flavor.

Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?

Yes! Store-bought taco seasoning is a quick and easy option, or you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika.

How can I make nachos crispier?

Bake the chips for 5 minutes before adding toppings to help them stay crispy.

Can I use different kinds of chips?

Yes, try blue corn chips, pita chips, or even sweet potato chips for variety.

Are nachos gluten-free?

Most tortilla chips are gluten-free, but check labels to be sure. Also, ensure any seasonings and toppings are gluten-free.

What protein options work well for nachos?

Ground beef, shredded chicken, pulled pork, steak, or even tofu can be great protein additions.

Can I add cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese?

Yes! Cheese sauce gives a creamy texture, but shredded cheese provides a more traditional nacho experience.

How do I serve nachos for a party?

Serve nachos on a large sheet pan and let guests add their favorite toppings.

Conclusion

Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos are the perfect easy and delicious dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a cheesy, crunchy snack, these nachos will hit the spot. Try different variations, customize your toppings, and enjoy a fun, shareable meal!