Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos
Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos are a total game-changer when it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing snacks. Picture a big, crispy sheet of tortilla chips piled high with melted cheese, seasoned ground…
Tip: save now, cook later.Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos are a total game-changer when it comes to easy, crowd-pleasing snacks. Picture a big, crispy sheet of tortilla chips piled high with melted cheese, seasoned ground beef or beans, jalapeños, fresh tomatoes, and plenty of gooey melted goodness all baked together on one pan. It’s all about that perfect mix of crunchy, cheesy, and spicy in every bite.
I love making these nachos because they’re so simple and customizable. I usually throw everything on one big sheet pan, pop it in the oven, and in minutes, the whole kitchen smells amazing. Plus, I find it’s the best way to feed a bunch of friends without spending too much time in the kitchen. My secret tip: add a good dollop of sour cream and some fresh cilantro before serving for that fresh kick.
These nachos always bring people together—whether it’s for game day, movie night, or just an easy dinner when I’m craving comfort food. I like to have fun with the toppings and sometimes add avocado, black olives, or even a drizzle of salsa verde. No matter how you load them up, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast and leave everyone smiling.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortilla Chips: Look for thick, sturdy chips so they hold up under the toppings without getting soggy. If you want a gluten-free option, corn chips are perfect.
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for less grease, but ground turkey or chicken works well too if you want a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, use seasoned black beans or lentils.
Cheese: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives great melt and flavor. If you can’t find Monterey Jack, mozzarella or even a Mexican cheese blend works fine.
Fresh Toppings: Fresh tomatoes, lettuce, cilantro, and jalapeños add a crisp bite. If jalapeño’s too spicy, try milder green peppers or skip it altogether.
Sour Cream: It adds creamy cooling contrast. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want more protein or a tangier taste.
How Do You Get Perfectly Melted, Crispy Sheet Pan Nachos?
Balancing melted cheese with crispy chips can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right:
- Arrange chips in an even layer on a large sheet pan for consistent cooking.
- Add seasoned beef evenly over the chips so every bite is flavorful.
- Sprinkle cheese generously and evenly — cheese melts best when it covers all toppings well.
- Bake at a high temperature (around 400°F) for 8-10 minutes until cheese bubbles and gets slightly golden.
- Don’t overload the pan—too many toppings can make chips soggy. Keep toppings moderate and fresh ones added after baking.
After baking, add fresh toppings and dollop sour cream right before serving to enjoy the perfect mix of crunchy, melty, and fresh flavors.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large sheet pan – perfect for spreading out the chips so they crisp evenly and everything melts nicely.
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper – helps prevent chips from sticking and makes cleanup quick.
- Skillet – for cooking the ground beef evenly before adding to the nachos.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for breaking up and stirring the beef as it cooks.
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese) – fresh shredded cheese melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for cooked shredded chicken or turkey to lighten it up, or use black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little extra spice and flavor.
- Add sautéed onions and bell peppers to the beef for a touch of sweetness and depth.
- Stir in corn kernels or black olives for more texture and color — great for summer or Fiesta-style nachos.
Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 large bag (about 10-12 oz) tortilla chips
For the Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, or use all cheddar)
Fresh Toppings:
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 medium jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Time Needed:
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 25 minutes. That includes 10 minutes to cook the beef, 8-10 minutes to bake the nachos, and a few extra minutes to add fresh toppings and serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Beef:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning and about 2/3 cup of water. Let it simmer until the water reduces and the beef is well coated (about 3-5 minutes). Remove from heat.
2. Assemble the Nachos:
Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly spray it to prevent sticking. Spread an even layer of tortilla chips onto the pan.
Sprinkle the seasoned beef evenly over the chips. Then, generously top with both types of shredded cheese.
3. Bake and Add Fresh Toppings:
Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and dollop sour cream all over. Sprinkle with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and red onions if you’d like.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the nachos immediately with extra sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty, loaded sheet pan nachos fresh and warm!
Can I Make Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for seasoned black beans, cooked lentils, or your favorite meat substitute. Just season them similarly with taco spices for great flavor.
How Do I Store and Reheat Leftover Nachos?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep the chips crispy. Avoid microwaving, which can make chips soggy.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking from frozen will cause uneven browning and may add extra moisture.
What Are Some Great Toppings to Add?
Besides the basics, try avocado slices, black olives, sliced green onions, corn kernels, or a drizzle of salsa verde. These extras add flavor and texture to customize your nachos.