Classic Loaded Nachos

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 10 oz tortilla chips
• 2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (optional)
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup salsa (optional)
• ½ cup sour cream (optional)
• ¼ cup jalapeños, sliced (optional)
• ½ can black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
• ½ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• ¼ cup red onion, diced (optional)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water (if seasoning mix requires) and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and fragrant.
4. Spread tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chips, then spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the cheese.
5. Top with the remaining shredded cheese and any optional toppings like black beans, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños.
6. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are slightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with optional fresh toppings like diced red onion, cilantro, salsa, and sour cream before serving.