Epic Beef Nachos Supreme

This epic beef nachos supreme recipe transforms ordinary game day snacks into an extraordinary crowd-pleaser that'll have everyone hovering around the serving table. Loaded with savory seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, these nachos deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort in your home kitchen.

I first made these nachos for a last-minute Super Bowl party when I needed something impressive with pantry staples. The empty trays and multiple requests for the recipe confirmed this would become my signature game day contribution.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Adds hearty protein and takes on the taco seasonings beautifully. Choose 80/20 lean to fat ratio for best flavor
• Yellow onion: Provides aromatic sweetness when cooked with the beef. Look for firm onions without soft spots
• Tortilla chips: Create the sturdy foundation. Select thick restaurant-style chips that can support the heavy toppings
• Refried beans: Deliver creamy texture and extra protein. Traditional or vegetarian varieties both work wonderfully
• Shredded cheese blend: Melts perfectly over the chips. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged options
• Roma tomatoes: Add fresh juicy flavor. Choose firm tomatoes with vibrant color for best taste
• Green onions: Provide a mild onion flavor and bright color. Select bunches with crisp green tops

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit while you prepare the other ingredients. This higher temperature ensures quick melting of the cheese without making the chips soggy.

Brown the Beef Mixture:

Cook the ground beef and diced onions in a skillet over medium-high heat until the beef is fully cooked with no pink remaining, about 8 minutes. Break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks for better distribution later. Drain excess fat to prevent greasy nachos.

Season the Beef:

Return the drained beef to the pan and sprinkle with taco seasoning. Add 3/4 cup water and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it continue simmering until most liquid evaporates, about 5 minutes. The meat should be moist but not swimming in liquid.

Prepare the Nacho Base:

Arrange a generous layer of tortilla chips on two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Ensure chips slightly overlap but create a relatively even layer. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Add Refried Beans:

Spoon dollops of refried beans evenly across both pans of chips. No need to spread them perfectly as they will soften and spread during baking. Try to distribute evenly so every serving gets some beans.

Add Beef Layer:

Divide the seasoned ground beef mixture between both pans, sprinkling it evenly over the chips and beans. Distribute in a way that ensures most chips get some beef topping.

Add Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over both pans, covering as much of the chips, beans, and beef as possible. The cheese acts as the glue that holds everything together.

Bake the Nachos:

Place both baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is completely melted and edges of chips begin to lightly brown. Watch carefully near the end to prevent burning.

Add Fresh Toppings:

Remove nachos from the oven and immediately sprinkle with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions. The heat from the nachos will slightly warm these fresh ingredients without cooking them.

Serve Immediately:

Transfer the nachos to serving platters or serve straight from the baking sheets. These nachos are best enjoyed hot when the cheese is still melty and before the chips can become soggy.

When I make these nachos for my family gatherings, the refried beans always get special attention. My grandmother taught me that a good quality bean layer makes all the difference between ordinary and extraordinary nachos. She would simmer her homemade beans with a bit of chicken stock before spreading them on the chips which added an incredible depth of flavor.

Storing Leftovers

Nachos are definitely best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but if you find yourself with leftovers, store the components separately whenever possible. Place the chip base with cheese and meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator and store fresh toppings separately. Reheat the nacho base in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese remelts, then add fresh toppings. While not as crispy as the original, this method preserves the most texture and flavor.

Customization Options

These beef nachos supreme serve as an excellent base recipe that welcomes personalization. For spicier nachos, add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. Create a nacho bar by serving the base nachos with additional toppings like guacamole, sour cream, black olives, or cilantro in separate bowls, allowing guests to customize their portions. For a heartier version, add a layer of black beans along with the refried beans, or substitute shredded chicken or pork for the beef.

Serving Suggestions

Transform these nachos from an appetizer to a complete meal by serving them with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. A light garden salad with lime vinaigrette offers fresh contrast to the rich nachos. For authentic Mexican flair, serve with small bowls of guacamole, pico de gallo, and Mexican crema for diners to add as desired. If serving as the main attraction at a gathering, complement with margaritas or Mexican beer for adults and horchata for a family-friendly option.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of ground beef works best?

For optimal flavor and texture, use 80/20 ground beef. It's lean enough to avoid excess grease while still providing rich flavor.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add jalapeños, use spicy taco seasoning, or drizzle with hot sauce to increase the heat level.

→ Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but block cheese shredded at home tends to melt smoother and tastes fresher.

→ What are good substitutes for refried beans?

Try black beans or pinto beans, mashed lightly for texture, as a great substitute for refried beans.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.

→ Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Add guacamole, sour cream, olives, or your favorite toppings to suit your taste.