Bold and Cheesy: Your New Favorite Chili Cheese Nachos Recipe

Photo byTakela Harrison

When it comes to snacks that combine comfort, flavor, and a little bit of spice, few things can compete with the deliciousness of Chili Cheese Nachos. Whether you're hosting a game night or simply looking for an easy dish to satisfy your cravings, this recipe is the perfect combination of rich, hearty chili and gooey, melted cheese over crispy tortilla chips.

The chili topping, made from ground beef and a blend of seasonings, delivers a savory kick, while the fresh toppings like jalapeños, black olives, and cilantro add layers of flavor and texture. Whether you're a nacho enthusiast or new to the scene, these Chili Cheese Nachos will quickly become a crowd favorite at any gathering.

A Snack Staple: Chili Cheese Nachos

Imagine a plate of crispy tortilla chips loaded with savory, homemade chili, topped with golden cheddar cheese, and fresh, zesty ingredients. It's the kind of snack that makes you want to dive right in. The beauty of Chili Cheese Nachos is that they’re easy to assemble, quick to bake, and they never fail to impress. Perfect for game day, family movie nights, or any occasion where bold flavors are a must, this dish delivers comfort with every bite.

Recipe: Chili Cheese Nachos

Ingredients:

For the Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Nachos:

• 1 bag (10 oz) tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup salsa
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chili: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, for about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Assemble the Nachos: Spread tortilla chips evenly across a large baking sheet. Spoon the prepared chili over the chips, distributing it generously. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chili. Top with sliced jalapeños, black olives, and chopped green onions for added flavor.
4. Bake: Place the nachos in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbling.
5. Serve: Once out of the oven, top the nachos with dollops of sour cream and salsa. Finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while everything is warm and gooey.

The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. You can adjust the spice level, add more of your favorite toppings, or even substitute ground turkey or vegetarian chili for a different spin. Whatever you choose, these Chili Cheese Nachos are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. So, grab your favorite cold drink, sit back, and enjoy the perfect plate of nachos.

Chili Cheese Nachos are a crowd favorite for game nights, casual gatherings, or even solo snack time, and making them from scratch can elevate the experience. The key to perfecting this dish lies in a hearty homemade chili, cheesy goodness, and fresh toppings like jalapeños and cilantro.

To start, you'll brown ground beef with onions and garlic before combining it with kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings like chili powder and cumin. Let it simmer until all the flavors meld together. For the nachos, layer tortilla chips with this chili and generous amounts of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top it all off with fresh ingredients like sour cream, salsa, and green onions for that extra burst of flavor.

Many versions of this recipe offer flexibility with toppings and cheese types—try mixing cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick, or switch ground beef for turkey for a leaner option​(i am baker)​(Savory Discovery)​(All Chef Recipes).