Homemade nachos are a fun, versatile, and quick snack or meal! Here’s a basic recipe that can be easily customized with your favorite toppings.
### Ingredients:
- Tortilla chips (about 1 large bag)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or shredded chicken (optional)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped red onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (for meat, if used)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (for meat, if used)
- Salt and pepper to taste
### Toppings (optional):
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Pickled jalapeños
- Sliced green onions
- Hot sauce
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Meat (Optional):**
- If you’re using ground beef or shredded chicken, season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until done, then set aside.
3. **Assemble the Nachos:**
- On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, spread out an even layer of tortilla chips.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chips.
- Add the cooked ground beef or shredded chicken (if using).
- Evenly distribute the black beans, diced tomatoes, onions, black olives, and jalapeño slices over the chips.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
4. **Bake the Nachos:**
- Place the nachos in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Keep an eye on them to make sure the chips don’t burn.
5. **Garnish and Serve:**
- Remove the nachos from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh cilantro and any additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pickled jalapeños.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
### Customization Ideas:
- **Vegetarian Nachos**: Skip the meat and add more beans, grilled veggies like peppers and corn, or even tofu.
- **Spicy Nachos**: Add extra jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa.
- **Loaded Nachos**: Add extras like corn, avocado slices, or even a fried egg on top.
Let me know if you'd like any variations or additional tips!
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