Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe

Sizzling Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe: A Fiesta of Flavors

Crispy tortilla chips loaded with melted cheese and mouthwatering sheet pan nachos recipe toppings create the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Layers of savory ingredients burst with flavor in every single bite.

Bold spices and fresh ingredients combine to make these nachos irresistible.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flexibility.

You can customize the toppings to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of crunch, heat, and cheesy goodness.

Gather your friends and get ready to devour these addictive nachos that will steal the show at any gathering.

Variations to Mix Up Your Sheet Pan Nachos Game

  • Vegetarian Nachos: Replace ground beef with black beans, quinoa, or plant-based meat alternatives for a protein-packed meatless version.
  • Chicken Fiesta Nachos: Swap ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or seasoned grilled chicken for a lighter protein option.
  • Seafood Nachos: Use seasoned shrimp or crab meat instead of beef for a coastal-inspired sheet pan nacho experience.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Ensure using gluten-free tortilla chips and verify all seasonings are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

Best Pairings to Enjoy with Sheet Pan Nachos

  • Pair with Mexican Lager: Crisp, light Mexican beers like Corona or Modelo Especial perfectly cut through the richness of the nachos, refreshing your palate with each bite.
  • Complement with Margarita: A classic lime margarita balances the spicy beef and cheese, adding a zesty citrus note that enhances the nacho's bold flavors.
  • Match with Sparkling Sangria: A fruity, bubbly sangria provides a sweet counterpoint to the savory nachos, creating a vibrant and festive dining experience.
  • Serve with Craft IPA: A hoppy India Pale Ale with citrus undertones can stand up to the robust spices in the beef and cheese, offering a complex flavor interaction.

Storing Sheet Pan Nachos Without Losing Crunch

  • Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep chips and toppings separate to prevent sogginess.
  • Wrap nachos in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing with fresh toppings like sour cream or cilantro.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Spread nachos on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent burning. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Add fresh toppings after reheating.

FAQs

  • How do I prevent my nachos from getting soggy?

Layer the tortilla chips first, drain excess liquid from the beef mixture, and add ingredients sparingly to keep chips crispy.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with plant-based meat substitute or use additional black beans and add extra vegetables like bell peppers for protein.

  • What cheese works best for sheet pan nachos?

Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can also use monterey jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for more flavor variety.

  • How can I make these nachos spicier?

Add extra jalapenos, use hot sauce, include diced green chilies, or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before baking for more heat.

Why Sheet Pan Nachos Are the Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser

  • Savor Sweet Simplicity: Perfect for bakers who want a delightful treat without complex techniques.
  • Create Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This bread delivers classic donut flavors in a shareable, homemade format that appeals to all ages.
  • Versatile Breakfast and Dessert Delight: Enjoy as a morning companion with coffee or an afternoon snack that satisfies sweet cravings.
  • Quick Kitchen Magic: Minimal prep steps and common pantry ingredients make this recipe accessible for both novice and experienced home bakers.

Ingredients for Crispy, Cheesy Sheet Pan Nachos

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful base that provides richness and protein to the nachos.
Seasonings:
  • Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: A blend of spices that adds depth and warmth to the ground beef.
Vegetable and Bean Mixture:
  • Black Beans, Corn, Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: A colorful and nutritious combination that adds texture and zesty flavor to the nachos.
Base and Cheese:
  • Tortilla Chips, Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Crispy chips form the foundation of the nachos, while melted cheese creates a gooey and delicious topping.
Garnishes:
  • Red Onion, Cilantro, Sour Cream, Sliced Jalapenos: Fresh toppings that provide additional flavor, creaminess, and a spicy kick to the sheet pan nachos.

How to Make Sheet Pan Nachos That Wow

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400F (200C) to get ready for nacho magic.

Step 2: Brown The Beef

Sizzle ground beef in a skillet with these flavor-packed seasonings:
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder

Cook until the meat turns a beautiful golden brown.

Drain away any extra grease.

Step 3: Create A Flavor Explosion

Toss these delicious ingredients into the beef:
  • Black beans
  • Corn
  • Diced tomatoes with green chilies

Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Build Your Nacho Foundation

Spread tortilla chips across a baking sheet like a crunchy canvas. Sprinkle the beef mixture evenly over the chips.

Shower the entire creation with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 5: Melt And Transform

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese becomes a gooey, bubbling masterpiece.

Step 6: Add The Finishing Touches

Pull the nachos out of the oven and deck them out with:
  • Chopped red onion
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Dollops of sour cream
  • Sliced jalapenos (optional for heat lovers)

Step 7: Devour And Celebrate

Serve immediately and watch everyone dive in with pure excitement!

Pro Tips to Take Your Sheet Pan Nachos Up a Notch

  • Remove excess grease from ground beef to prevent soggy nachos and keep the chips crispy.
  • Spread chips in a single layer and distribute toppings evenly to ensure every bite has maximum flavor.
  • Use freshly shredded cheddar for better melting and richer taste compared to pre-shredded options.
  • Modify chili powder and jalapenos based on personal heat preference or dietary needs.
  • Replace ground beef with black beans, plant-based crumbles, or roasted vegetables for a meat-free version.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe

Sheet Pan Nachos Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Crispy, loaded Sheet Pan Nachos bring Mexican-inspired fiesta flavors straight to your table with effortless charm. Melted cheese, zesty toppings, and irresistible crunch make you the ultimate game day hero.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef

Vegetables and Beans:

  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) corn, drained
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes & green chilies, undrained
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Seasonings and Toppings:

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sour cream (for serving)
  • Tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C), preparing for nacho perfection.
  2. In a hot skillet, brown the ground beef with aromatic spices, ensuring a flavorful base and eliminating excess fat.
  3. Enhance the meat mixture by incorporating black beans, sweet corn, and zesty diced tomatoes with green chilies, creating a robust and vibrant filling.
  4. Arrange a crisp layer of tortilla chips across a large sheet pan, creating a sturdy foundation for the upcoming deliciousness.
  5. Generously distribute the spiced beef mixture over the chips, ensuring even coverage and maximum flavor potential.
  6. Sprinkle a generous blanket of shredded cheddar cheese, promising a molten and creamy topping.
  7. Transfer the sheet pan to the preheated oven, allowing 15-20 minutes of transformative heat to melt the cheese into a bubbling masterpiece.
  8. Once golden and irresistible, carefully remove the nachos and crown them with fresh red onion, bright cilantro, cool sour cream, and optional fiery jalapeño slices.
  9. Serve immediately while the chips remain crisp and the cheese stays delightfully gooey.

Notes

  • Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and make the nachos healthier.
  • Consider using turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter protein option that works great for different dietary needs.
  • Toast the tortilla chips briefly before adding toppings to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy nachos.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting chili powder or using mild green chilies for sensitive palates while maintaining authentic flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 34 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 29 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star