Texas Nachos Tex-Mex Appetizer (Print Version)
Crispy chips topped with melted cheese, spiced beef, and fresh garnishes.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Base Layer
01 - 7 oz tortilla chips
02 - 7 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
→ Beef Mixture
03 - 9 oz ground beef
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 clove garlic, minced
06 - 1 tsp chili powder
07 - ½ tsp ground cumin
08 - ½ tsp paprika
09 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Fresh Toppings
10 - 1 medium tomato, diced
11 - 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
12 - 2 tbsp pickled jalapeños, sliced (optional)
13 - 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
14 - ¼ cup sour cream
15 - ¼ cup guacamole or sliced avocado
# Steps:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F.
02 - Heat skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
03 - Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
04 - Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 more minute, then set aside.
05 - Arrange half the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter. Sprinkle with half the cheese and half the beef mixture. Repeat with another layer of chips, cheese, and beef.
06 - Bake in preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
07 - Remove from oven. Top with diced tomato, jalapeños, cilantro, sour cream, and guacamole. Serve immediately.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The beef seasoning mimics restaurant style flavor without any complicated steps
- Layering chips and cheese means every single bite is loaded with toppings
02 -
- Building two layers instead of one big pile ensures the toppings distribute evenly
- Serve immediately because the cheese starts to set as it cools
03 -
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup
- Let the beef cool slightly before layering so the chips do not get soggy