Chili Cheese Nachos

Chili Cheese Nachos are the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy tortilla chips with savory chili and a blanket of gooey melted cheese. This dish is perfect for parties, game day snacks, or a quick weeknight meal. The bold flavors of chili, cheese, and toppings come together for a satisfying, indulgent treat that’s sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chili Cheese Nachos are a crowd favorite because they offer layers of flavor and texture. The crunch of the tortilla chips, the warmth and heartiness of the chili, and the melt-in-your-mouth cheese create the perfect bite. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and customizable—add your favorite toppings, from jalapeños to sour cream, for a personalized touch. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, this dish is always a winner.

Ingredients

• 1 bag of tortilla chips
• 2 cups cooked chili (see recipe below for chili, or use canned chili)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)

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

Chili Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

For the Chili:

1. In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the kidney beans, tomato sauce, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer on low for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

For the Nachos:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a large baking sheet, spread a layer of tortilla chips.
3. Spoon the prepared chili evenly over the chips.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili and chips, ensuring it covers them generously.
5. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and top with your favorite toppings such as sliced jalapeños, sour cream, diced onions, cilantro, and black olives.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes (if using pre-made chili)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chili Cheese Nachos: Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped jalapeños to the chili for a spicier kick.
• Vegetarian Chili Cheese Nachos: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein or use extra beans and vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Loaded Nachos: Top your nachos with extra ingredients such as guacamole, salsa, or diced tomatoes for a fuller flavor profile.
• Cheese Variations: Mix and match different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a more complex flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While the nachos will lose some of their crispiness, they’ll still be tasty.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to help restore some crispiness. You can also microwave them, but the chips may become softer.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought chili for this recipe?

Yes, you can use canned chili if you’re short on time. Just heat it up and top the nachos with it before adding the cheese and baking.

How do I keep my nachos crispy?

To prevent soggy nachos, make sure to layer the chips evenly and avoid overloading them with chili. You can also bake the chips for a few minutes before adding the chili and cheese to give them extra crunch.

Can I make Chili Cheese Nachos ahead of time?

While nachos are best served immediately, you can prepare the chili in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready, assemble the nachos and bake them.

Can I make the nachos in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare the chili in a slow cooker, then layer the nachos with chili and cheese and bake them in the oven for a few minutes to melt the cheese.

What kind of chips are best for nachos?

Thick, sturdy tortilla chips work best for nachos since they can hold up to the chili and cheese without getting soggy. Look for chips labeled “restaurant style” or “nacho chips.”

Can I freeze the chili for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the chili for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before assembling the nachos.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to use a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella for a stringy, stretchy texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

How can I make these nachos healthier?

To make healthier nachos, you can use baked tortilla chips, lean ground turkey instead of beef, and top them with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein.

Can I add meatless toppings to my nachos?

Yes! Add toppings like guacamole, salsa, diced avocado, or even fresh corn for a burst of freshness and flavor.

How do I keep my nachos from getting soggy?

Be sure to spread the chili evenly and don’t overload the chips with too much chili. You can also pre-bake the chips to make them extra crispy.

Conclusion

Chili Cheese Nachos are the perfect snack or meal for any occasion. The combination of crunchy chips, savory chili, and melted cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. With the ability to customize the toppings and add your own flair, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it for a party, a movie night, or just a tasty treat, Chili Cheese Nachos are sure to be a hit!

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