How to Make the Best Nachos Ever | Delish

Nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, movie nights, or just a cozy evening at home. Who can resist that gooey cheese, crunchy chips, and an array of flavorful toppings? In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make the best nachos ever, guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Not only is this an easy nachos recipe, but it’s also customizable to fit every taste—let’s dive in!

A Quick History of Nachos

Did you know nachos have been around since the 1940s? They originated in Piedras Negras, Mexico, when a group of U.S. soldiers visited a restaurant and were served a delightful snack by the chef, Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya. Since then, nachos have exploded in popularity, becoming a staple in restaurants, sports events, and parties across the U.S. With so many variations, nachos have become a blank canvas for flavors and creativity!

Ingredients

To make the best nachos ever, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Base Ingredients:

Tortilla Chips: About 8 ounces (ensure they are sturdy for layering)
Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorites like Monterey Jack)

Toppings:

Black Beans: 1 cup (drained and rinsed)
Jalapeños: 1/4 cup sliced or diced (fresh or pickled for added zing)
Sour Cream: For drizzling
Guacamole: For that creamy richness
Diced Tomatoes: 1 cup (fresh or canned)
Green Onions: 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ons:

Chopped cilantro
Ground beef or shredded chicken (pre-cooked)
Corn kernels
Sliced olives

Instructions

Ready to whip up the best nachos ever? Follow these simple steps:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is key for achieving that perfectly melted cheese!
Layer the chips: Spread the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet. This ensures even coverage and prevents sogginess.
Add cheese: Generously sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chips. This helps hold everything together when the cheese melts.
Customize your toppings: Add the black beans, jalapeños, and any additional toppings like cooked meat or corn.
Top it off: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the entire surface. Trust me, double cheesy nachos are the best nachos!
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Then top with diced tomatoes, sour cream, guacamole, and green onions.

Tips and Variations