Air Fryer Nachos: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy, Delicious Nachos
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying snack, Air Fryer Nachos are the way to go! This recipe combines the classic flavors of nachos with the convenience of an air fryer, yielding crispy chips and gooey cheese that are both delicious and visually enticing. Perfect for game days, movie nights, or simply when you’re craving something savory, Air Fryer Nachos are a must-try.
How to Make Air Fryer Nachos
Making Air Fryer Nachos is simple and doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. This guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you achieve the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips (thick-cut recommended)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, pico de gallo
Directions
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Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Set aside.
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Prepare the Refried Beans: Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, heat in a saucepan over low heat. Set aside.
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Assemble the Nachos: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line with parchment paper with holes. Spread a layer of tortilla chips in the basket. Top with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeño slices, and red onion.
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Air Fry the Nachos: Carefully place the basket in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are heated through.
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Garnish and Serve: Transfer the nachos to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Air Fryer Nachos
The best way to serve Air Fryer Nachos is hot and fresh out of the air fryer. Position your platter in the center of the table with a variety of toppings available for guests to customize their nachos. Sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pico de gallo are all fantastic options that enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.
How to Store Air Fryer Nachos
While nachos are best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted again.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Nachos
- Layer Ingredients Wisely: Make sure to distribute your toppings evenly over the chips. This ensures that every bite is filled with flavor.
- Keep it Crispy: To prevent soggy nachos, avoid adding too many toppings. Less is often more when aiming for that perfect crunch.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Don’t hesitate to mix and match different cheeses according to your taste. Pepper jack cheese adds a spicy kick!
Variation
Feel free to make Air Fryer Nachos your own! Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a meatless option. You can also switch up the cheese types or add other toppings like black olives, corn, or diced tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use the air fryer for other types of nachos?
Yes! This air fryer method works well for any type of nachos, whether you use different proteins, cheese variations, or toppings.
2. How do I know when my nachos are done?
Health professionals recommend ensuring the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are warmed through, typically within 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
3. Can I make nachos without meat?
Absolutely! You can make delicious vegetarian nachos by skipping the meat and piling on your favorite toppings like black beans, corn, and vegetables.
Air Fryer Nachos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips (thick-cut recommended)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 can (15 ounce) refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Optional Toppings
- sour cream optional
- guacamole optional
- salsa optional
- pico de gallo optional
Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Set aside.
Prepare the Refried Beans
- Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, heat in a saucepan over low heat. Set aside.
Assemble the Nachos
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line with parchment paper with holes.
- Spread a layer of tortilla chips in the basket. Top with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeño slices, and red onion.
Air Fry the Nachos
- Carefully place the basket in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are heated through.
Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the nachos to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
