Nachos are a staple at any game day gathering, and when done right, they can become the star of the show. Enter the Epic Beef Nachos Supreme—a hearty, flavorful, and downright irresistible dish that will elevate your game day spread to the next level. This recipe brings together seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, all layered over sturdy tortilla chips. It’s a crowd-pleaser that promises to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
Growing up, nachos were a frequent treat during our family movie nights and weekend get-togethers. But my love for nachos truly blossomed during my teenage years when frequent visits to Taco Bell often ended with an order of beef nachos supreme. There was something about the combination of flavors and textures that made every bite so satisfying. This homemade version takes that familiar fast-food favorite and amps it up with better quality ingredients and a more robust taste. Perfect for Super Bowl Sunday or any other festive occasion, these nachos are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
Taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 pound ground beef
1/2 yellow onion, diced
2 bags tortilla chips (16 ounces each)
1 can refried beans
16 ounces shredded cheese of choice (cheddar and Monterey Jack recommended)
3 Roma tomatoes, diced
2 to 3 green onions, sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef
Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your nachos cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
Cook the Ground Beef:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions to the skillet.
Cook the beef and onions until the meat is fully browned and the onions are translucent, about 8 minutes. Make sure to break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks.
Drain Excess Fat:
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This helps to keep the nachos from becoming too greasy.
Season the Beef:
Return the drained beef to the skillet. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat. If using store-bought taco seasoning, one packet should suffice.
Add 3/4 cup of water to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes. This allows the beef to soak up all the flavorful seasoning.
Step 2: Assemble the Nachos
Prepare the Baking Sheets:
Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes for easier cleanup and prevents the chips from sticking to the pan.
Layer the Chips:
Spread a generous layer of sturdy tortilla chips across each baking sheet. Ensure the chips are spread out evenly to provide a solid base for the toppings.
Add the Refried Beans:
Open the can of refried beans. Using a spoon, dollop spoonfuls of beans over the chips on both baking sheets. The beans will spread out more as they heat in the oven.
Add the Ground Beef:
Spoon half of the seasoned ground beef mixture over the chips and beans on each baking sheet. Distribute the beef evenly to ensure every chip gets some of the savory topping.
Sprinkle the Cheese:
Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the chips, beans, and beef. Using a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese adds a delicious blend of sharpness and creaminess.
Step 3: Bake the Nachos
Bake in the Oven:
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Monitor the Baking:
Keep an eye on the nachos as they bake to prevent the chips from burning. You want the cheese to be melted and slightly golden but not overly browned.
Step 4: Add Fresh Toppings and Serve
Add Fresh Toppings:
Once the nachos are out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the diced Roma tomatoes and sliced green onions over the top. The fresh toppings add a burst of color and a refreshing crunch that complements the warm, cheesy nachos.
Serve Immediately:
Serve the nachos straight from the baking sheets or transfer them to a large platter for a more formal presentation. Make sure to serve them hot for the best taste and texture.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option:
Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional refried beans for a vegetarian version. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers and corn.
Spicy Kick:
Add some heat by mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce with the ground beef. You can also top the nachos with pickled jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
Different Cheeses:
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend can all work well and add unique flavors to your nachos.
Additional Toppings:
Enhance your nachos with extra toppings like black olives, guacamole, sour cream, or salsa. These additions can provide more layers of flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Epic Beef Nachos Supreme is not just a dish; it’s an experience. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy beans, melted cheese, and fresh toppings creates a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion, especially game days. These nachos are easy to prepare, customizable, and absolutely delicious. They’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing joy to every bite. So, next time you’re planning a game day menu or simply craving a delicious snack, remember this recipe. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a plate of nachos that’s truly supreme.