Nacho Supreme: The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Nachos

Nacho Supreme: the ultimate crowd-pleaser, game-day snack, and frankly, a perfectly acceptable dinner on a Tuesday night. Let’s be honest, who can resist a mountain of crispy tortilla chips piled high with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and all the fixings? I know I certainly can’t! This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and flavors that dance on your tongue.

While the exact origins of the Nacho Supreme are debated, the story generally points back to Mexico in the 1940s. Legend has it that a resourceful maître d’hôtel named Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya created the dish on the fly for a group of hungry American women who arrived at his restaurant after closing time. He threw together what he had on hand – tortilla chips, cheese, and jalapeños – and a culinary legend was born! Over the years, the humble nacho has evolved into the glorious, customizable creation we know and love today.

What makes the Nacho Supreme so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, spicy, and savory. The warm, melted cheese blankets the crispy chips, while the seasoned ground beef adds a hearty, satisfying element. Then, you have the cool, refreshing toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo that provide a delightful contrast. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your liking. Whether you’re a meat-lover, a vegetarian, or a spice enthusiast, you can tailor your nacho supreme to perfectly suit your taste buds. So, grab your chips, gather your toppings, and let’s get ready to create the ultimate nacho experience!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
• 1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips (restaurant-style or your favorite)
• 1 (16 ounce) jar nacho cheese sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup guacamole (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup pico de gallo (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeño slices
• Optional: chopped green onions, cilantro

Preparing the Beef:

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is cook the ground beef. This is the foundation of our nacho supreme, so let’s make it flavorful!

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. We want to brown the beef evenly, so keep stirring and breaking it apart. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef is no longer pink.
3. Drain the Excess Grease: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. You can do this by tilting the skillet and using a spoon to scoop out the grease, or by using a colander. Be careful not to let any of the beef escape!
4. Add Taco Seasoning and Water: Now for the flavor! Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef. Then, pour in the water. Stir everything together well, making sure the taco seasoning is evenly distributed.
5. Simmer the Beef: Reduce the heat to low and let the beef simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors of the taco seasoning to meld with the beef. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The mixture should thicken slightly.
6. Taste and Adjust: Give the beef a taste. If you want a little more kick, you can add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce. If it’s too salty, add a little more water.

Preparing the Other Toppings:

While the beef is simmering, let’s get the other toppings ready. This will make the assembly process much smoother.

1. Warm the Refried Beans: You can warm the refried beans in a saucepan on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave. If using the microwave, transfer the beans to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. You want them to be easily spreadable.
2. Prepare the Cheese: Make sure your cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses are shredded. If you bought block cheese, shred it now. Having the cheese prepped and ready to go will save you time later.
3. Prepare the Sour Cream, Guacamole, and Pico de Gallo: If you’re using store-bought sour cream, guacamole, and pico de gallo, simply open the containers and set them aside. If you’re making your own guacamole and pico de gallo, now is the time to do it.
4. Slice the Black Olives and Jalapeños: If your black olives and jalapeños are not already sliced, slice them now.
5. Optional: Chop Green Onions and Cilantro: If you’re using green onions and cilantro, chop them finely and set them aside.

Assembling the Nachos:

Now for the fun part – putting it all together! This is where your creativity can shine. There’s no right or wrong way to assemble nachos, but here’s how I like to do it.

1. Preheat the Oven (Optional): If you want to melt the cheese a bit, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is optional, but it can make the nachos extra gooey and delicious. If you prefer, you can also melt the cheese under the broiler for a minute or two, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
2. Arrange the Tortilla Chips: Spread the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet or platter. Make sure there are no gaps between the chips, so you can maximize the topping coverage.
3. Spread the Refried Beans: Spoon the warmed refried beans over the tortilla chips, spreading them evenly. This creates a base for the other toppings and helps to hold everything together.
4. Top with Ground Beef: Spoon the seasoned ground beef over the refried beans. Distribute it evenly across the chips.
5. Drizzle with Nacho Cheese Sauce: Drizzle the nacho cheese sauce generously over the ground beef. Make sure to get some cheese sauce on every chip!
6. Sprinkle with Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the nacho cheese sauce. Use a generous amount of cheese – you want every chip to have a cheesy bite.
7. Bake or Broil (Optional): If you preheated the oven, bake the nachos for about 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you’re using the broiler, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
8. Add the Cold Toppings: Remove the nachos from the oven (if you baked them) and let them cool slightly. Then, add the cold toppings: sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, sliced black olives, and pickled jalapeño slices.
9. Garnish (Optional): If you’re using green onions and cilantro, sprinkle them over the nachos for a pop of color and freshness.
10. Serve Immediately: Serve the nachos immediately while they’re still warm and the cheese is melted. Grab some napkins and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your nacho supreme? Here are a few ideas:

• Protein Variations: Instead of ground beef, you can use shredded chicken, pulled pork, or even vegetarian options like black beans or lentils.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, queso fresco, or cotija.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef for extra heat. You can also use spicier jalapeños.
• Vegetarian Nachos: Omit the ground beef and use black beans or lentils instead. Add extra vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or onions.
• Sweet and Savory Nachos: For a unique twist, try adding some grilled pineapple or mango to your nachos.
• Individual Nachos: Instead of making one large platter of nachos, you can assemble individual portions in small bowls or ramekins. This is great for parties or gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Nachos: You can prepare the ground beef and other toppings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the nachos, simply warm the beef and beans and layer everything on the chips.

Enjoy Your Nacho Supreme!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for nacho supreme! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for game day, parties, or any time you’re craving a delicious and satisfying snack. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and variations to create your own signature nacho masterpiece. Happy snacking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Nacho Supreme recipe is more than just a snack; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this is a must-try for anyone who loves a good, satisfying, and customizable meal. From the perfectly seasoned ground beef to the layers of melted cheese and fresh toppings, every bite is an absolute delight. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, impressive enough for a party, and comforting enough for a solo indulgence. What more could you ask for?

But why is this particular Nacho Supreme recipe so special? It’s all about the balance. We’ve carefully considered each ingredient, ensuring that no single flavor overpowers the others. The spice blend for the beef is just right, offering a warm, savory kick without being overwhelmingly hot. The cheese sauce is creamy and decadent, perfectly complementing the crispy tortilla chips. And the fresh toppings add a burst of brightness and texture that elevates the entire dish.

Beyond the core recipe, the possibilities are endless! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. If you’re a fan of spice, add some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, try adding some grilled pineapple or mango salsa. Vegetarian? No problem! Simply substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or even crumbled tofu. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, to add a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions:

* Game Day Delight: Serve these nachos on a large platter for a crowd-pleasing appetizer during your next game day gathering.
* Family Dinner Fun: Make it a family affair by setting up a nacho bar with all the toppings and letting everyone customize their own plate.
* Quick Lunch Fix: Prepare the beef and cheese sauce ahead of time for a quick and easy lunch option.
* Elevated Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, layer the nachos in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets.

Variations to Explore:

* Chicken Nachos: Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken for a lighter option.
* Pulled Pork Nachos: Use slow-cooked pulled pork for a smoky and flavorful twist.
* Seafood Nachos: Top your nachos with grilled shrimp or crab for a decadent treat.
* Vegan Nachos: Use plant-based cheese, beans, and your favorite vegan toppings for a delicious and satisfying vegan meal.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a truly amazing Nacho Supreme. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do.

Now, it’s your turn! Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. And most importantly, have fun!

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos, your variations, and your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s create a community of nacho lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy nacho-ing!