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: 8 oz tortilla chips; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack); 1/2 cup cooked and seasoned ground beef or black beans; 1/2 cup jalapeños (sliced, optional); 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup diced onion; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1 lime (juiced); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (Velveeta or similar); 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup diced green chilies

Highlighted under: Baking Favorites

Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for game days or cozy nights in. Crispy tortilla chips are topped with zesty salsa and creamy queso, creating a deliciously satisfying snack or appetizer.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-23T22:42:27.392Z

Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso is a classic dish that brings friends and family together. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet movie night, these nachos are always a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy tortilla chips topped with melty cheese
Zesty salsa adds a burst of flavor
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or parties

      

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso are not just a dish; they are an experience. Whether you're hosting a lively game day gathering or enjoying a quiet movie night at home, these nachos fit right in. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, savory toppings, and gooey cheese creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

One of the best things about nachos is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Swap out the ground beef for chicken or turkey, or go completely vegetarian with black beans or extra veggies. The options are endless, making this dish adaptable for everyone at your table. So don’t hesitate to get creative and make these nachos your own!

Tips for the Ultimate Nacho Experience

To achieve nacho perfection, it’s crucial to layer your ingredients wisely. Start with a base of tortilla chips, then evenly distribute your meat or beans. This ensures that every chip holds its fair share of toppings, preventing the dreaded ‘naked chip’ syndrome. Follow with cheese and jalapeños, ensuring a gooey, flavorful bite every time. Remember, the key is balance—don’t overload your nachos, or they may become soggy.

Serving your nachos hot out of the oven is essential for the best experience. The melted cheese, warm salsa, and drizzled queso create an irresistible aroma that will have everyone reaching for their plates. Pair your baked nachos with a side of guacamole or sour cream for an extra layer of flavor, and you have a winning snack that’s sure to impress.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Ingredients

For the Nachos

8 oz tortilla chips
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
1/2 cup cooked and seasoned ground beef or black beans
1/2 cup jalapeños (sliced, optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions

For the Salsa

1 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 lime (juiced)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Queso

1 cup shredded cheese (Velveeta or similar)
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup diced green chilies

Instructions

How to Make Baked Nachos

Prepare the Salsa

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

Make the Queso

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine shredded cheese, milk, and diced green chilies. Stir until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips. Top with ground beef or black beans, followed by the shredded cheese and jalapeños.

Bake the Nachos

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and drizzle with queso. Top with fresh salsa and green onions before serving.

Enjoy your Baked Nachos!

FAQs About Baked Nachos

What type of cheese is best for nachos? When it comes to nachos, the cheese can make or break the dish. Cheddar and Monterey Jack are popular choices for their melting properties and robust flavors. However, for a creamy queso, Velveeta or a similar processed cheese is ideal due to its smooth texture. Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Can I make nachos in advance? While nachos are best served fresh, you can prepare certain components in advance. Make the salsa and queso ahead of time, and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the nachos and bake them for a quick and easy snack.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your nacho experience, consider pairing them with refreshing beverages. A chilled beer or a fruity margarita complements the savory flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a zesty limeade or sparkling water with lime makes a great choice, balancing the richness of the cheese and toppings.

If you're looking to add a sweet note to your spread, consider serving fresh fruit skewers or a fruit salad on the side. The natural sweetness of the fruit contrasts nicely with the savory, spicy nachos, providing a well-rounded snacking experience that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these nachos vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use black beans or refried beans instead.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor.

→ What can I serve with nachos?

Sour cream, guacamole, and extra salsa make great accompaniments!