Beef Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game day, movie night, or just a cozy dinner at home, look no further than this Beef Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe. This recipe is loaded with flavor, texture, and all the cheesy goodness you can imagine. It’s easy to throw together, and the best part? It’s made on a single sheet pan, making cleanup a breeze!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Beef Sheet Pan Nachos are a versatile dish that can cater to a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a casual get-together with friends, a family game night, or a cozy dinner, these nachos fit the bill. The combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion that is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Plus, they are customizable, allowing you to adapt the toppings to suit your preferences.

What to Buy

To make this Beef Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 13 ounces tortilla chips (1 bag)
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely diced
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and thinly sliced
• 1 Roma tomato, diced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Salsa for serving
• Sour cream for serving
• Guacamole for serving

Essential Tools for Success

To make your nacho-making experience smooth and enjoyable, ensure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large skillet – for cooking the beef and vegetables.
• Sheet pan – to assemble and bake your nachos.
• Spatula – for mixing and serving.
• Measuring spoons – to ensure accurate seasoning.
• Oven mitts – for safe handling of hot pans.

Directions: Beef Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbled, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Add in the 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Stir everything together, allowing the spices to coat the beef evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the sheet pan.

Step 4: Assemble the Nachos

On a large sheet pan, spread out the 13 ounces of tortilla chips in an even layer. Top the chips with the seasoned beef mixture, followed by the diced 1 large green bell pepper, 1 small red onion, and ½ cup of sliced black olives. Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Add Fresh Toppings

Scatter the 1 jalapeño pepper slices and 1 Roma tomato over the cheese layer. This adds a fresh crunch and a little heat.

Step 6: Bake the Nachos

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, remove the nachos and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side for dipping.

Make It Your Way

These Beef Sheet Pan Nachos are incredibly adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize your dish:

• Add cooked black beans or refried beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Mix in some corn for a sweet crunch.
• Use your favorite cheese blends—pepper jack or a Mexican cheese blend work well.
• Top with different fresh veggies like avocado or diced green onions.

Mistakes That Ruin Beef Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe

To ensure your nachos turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overloading on toppings: Too many toppings can make the nachos soggy. Stick to a good balance.
• Using stale chips: Always use fresh tortilla chips for the best crunch.
• Not preheating the oven: A hot oven is essential for melting the cheese perfectly.
• Skipping the garnishes: Fresh herbs and dips elevate the flavor and presentation.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While nachos are best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For meal prep, consider cooking the beef mixture ahead of time and assembling the nachos just before serving.

Reader Questions

Can I make these nachos vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat alternative like crumbled tempeh or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

How can I make these nachos spicier?

If you love heat, add more jalapeños, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes, or use a spicier cheese like pepper jack.

Can I freeze leftover nachos?

While it’s not ideal to freeze assembled nachos due to the texture of the chips, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture and toppings separately. Assemble and bake fresh nachos when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

What’s the best way to serve nachos at a party?

For parties, consider serving the nachos family-style on a large platter or sheet pan, allowing guests to dig in. Provide various toppings on the side for a customizable experience.

If you’re looking for more delicious, healthier options, consider trying out these recipes:

Final Thoughts

This Beef Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe is a guaranteed hit for any gathering. With its hearty toppings and melted cheese, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize makes it an attractive choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. So gather your friends, whip up a batch, and enjoy!

Whether you keep it classic or make it your own, these nachos will surely deliver flavor and fun in every bite. You’ll find that once you try this recipe, it will be on repeat in your kitchen. Happy nacho-making!