Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso

Name: Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 bag of tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken; 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 jalapeño, sliced; 1/4 cup sliced black olives; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 2 medium tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with these Baked Nachos topped with fresh salsa and creamy queso. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2025-12-24T02:55:27.165Z

Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso are the perfect blend of crispy tortilla chips, zesty salsa, and rich cheese sauce. Whether you're hosting a party or just indulging yourself, this dish is sure to please!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy tortilla chips loaded with flavor
Creamy queso that enhances every bite
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for gatherings

      

The Perfect Game Day Snack

Baked nachos are the quintessential game day snack, bringing everyone together in deliciousness. Whether you're cheering on your favorite team or hosting a movie marathon, these loaded nachos offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. With layers of toppings, they create a colorful and appetizing presentation that's sure to impress your guests.

One of the best things about nachos is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, making them an inclusive option for any gathering. Swap out the proteins, add extra veggies, or even go for a vegetarian version—there's no wrong way to enjoy these tasty treats!

A Flavor Explosion

The combination of crispy tortilla chips with gooey cheese, savory meats, and zesty toppings creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Each ingredient plays a role, from the richness of the cheese to the spice of the jalapeños and the freshness of the salsa. This dish is all about balance, ensuring each bite is packed with diverse flavors that complement one another beautifully.

Additionally, the homemade salsa and queso elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. The fresh ingredients in the salsa provide a bright contrast that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat, while the creamy queso adds a luxurious touch that enhances the overall experience.

Easy Preparation for Any Occasion

Preparing these baked nachos is incredibly easy, making them a go-to option for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious platter ready to serve in no time. The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep work, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your company.

Whether it's a casual family dinner, a festive gathering, or a last-minute party, these nachos are a reliable crowd-pleaser. Their simplicity and deliciousness make them a favorite among all ages, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

Ingredients

For the Nachos

1 bag of tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked and seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 jalapeño, sliced
1/4 cup sliced black olives
1/4 cup chopped green onions

For the Salsa

2 medium tomatoes, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Queso

1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt to taste

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before beginning the cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Salsa

In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Make the Queso

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine shredded Monterey Jack cheese and milk. Stir continuously until melted. Add garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Nachos

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, ground beef or chicken, black beans, jalapeño slices, and black olives.

Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Serve

Remove from the oven and drizzle with queso. Serve hot with the prepared salsa on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso!

Tips for the Best Nachos

To achieve the perfect nachos, it’s all about layering. Start with a solid base of chips and distribute your toppings evenly. This way, every chip gets a taste of the delicious flavors without being overloaded. Also, consider the type of chips you use; thicker chips can hold up better under all the toppings.

Another tip is to bake the nachos just until the cheese is melted. Overbaking can lead to soggy chips, which can be a real disappointment. Keep an eye on them as they bake and remove them from the oven as soon as the cheese is gooey and bubbly for the best results.

Serving Suggestions

While these baked nachos are delicious on their own, you can enhance the experience with additional sides. Guacamole, sour cream, or even a side of pickled jalapeños can provide extra flavor and creaminess to your dish. These additions not only enhance the taste but also add variety, allowing guests to customize their nacho experience.

For a complete meal, pair your nachos with a refreshing salad or a light soup. This balance of flavors and textures will create a satisfying dining experience that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the nachos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the toppings in advance and assemble the nachos just before baking.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can add ingredients like corn, diced bell peppers, or different types of cheese.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the meat and add additional beans or vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.