Nacho Supreme stands out as a quintessential party favorite, marrying the crunch of tortilla chips with a lavish layering of cheese, meat, and a medley of toppings. Whether it’s for a game day, a family movie night, or just a craving for something deliciously satisfying, this Nacho Supreme recipe promises to deliver a burst of flavors that can be customized to suit any palate.
Here’s how to create a platter of Nacho Supreme that’ll be the star of your next gathering.
Ingredients:
Tortilla Chips: 1 large bag (preferably thick chips to hold the toppings)
Ground Meat: 1 pound (beef, chicken, or a vegetarian alternative)
Taco Seasoning: 2 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade)
Refried Beans: 1 cup (optional)
Cheese: 2 cups shredded (a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well)
Jalapeños: 1/2 cup sliced (adjust according to heat preference)
Black Olives: 1/2 cup sliced
Sour Cream: 1/2 cup
Guacamole: 1/2 cup
Pico de Gallo or Salsa: 1 cup
Green Onions: 1/4 cup chopped
Cilantro: for garnishing
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will be used to melt the cheese to gooey perfection.
Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning (and a splash of water if needed) to the meat, stirring well to ensure the meat is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Layering the Nachos: On a large oven-proof platter or baking sheet, create a base layer of tortilla chips. Avoid overcrowding but ensure the surface is adequately covered. Spoon over the refried beans (if using), then distribute the seasoned meat evenly across the chips.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the meat, ensuring an even coverage so every chip gets a share of cheesy goodness.
Bake: Place the nacho assembly in the oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
Add Toppings: Once the cheese is melted, remove the nachos from the oven. Sprinkle the jalapeños, black olives, and any other desired toppings over the hot nachos.
Serve with Dips: Dollop sour cream and guacamole on top, and scatter the chopped green onions and cilantro for a fresh finish. Serve immediately with pico de gallo or salsa on the side for an added flavor kick.
Customization Tips:
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a mix of black beans, corn, and quinoa. Season as you would the meat for a flavorful alternative.
Extra Toppings: Feel free to add more toppings based on your preference. Think diced tomatoes, corn kernels, or even pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños and taco seasoning to suit your heat tolerance. Adding a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the spice factor.
Creating a Nacho Supreme at home is not only easy but allows for customization to cater to everyone’s tastes. This dish is all about layering flavors and textures, so don’t hesitate to get creative with the ingredients. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or throw in your own twist, Nacho Supreme is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the fiesta on a plate!
Making It a Meal: Nacho Supreme Variations
While the classic Nacho Supreme is undeniably delicious, there are endless ways to twist the recipe, making it a versatile dish that never gets old. Here are some variations to consider for your next nacho adventure:
BBQ Chicken Nachos: Swap the ground meat for shredded chicken and mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce. Top with red onions and cilantro for a tangy twist.
Buffalo Chicken Nachos: For fans of spicy food, buffalo chicken makes an exciting topping. Mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, and drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the finished nachos.
Veggie Lover’s Nachos: Skip the meat and load up on roasted vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms. A great way to make nachos feel a bit lighter without skimping on flavor.
Breakfast Nachos: Who says nachos are only for lunch or dinner? Top your tortilla chips with scrambled eggs, bacon bits, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Serve with a side of salsa for a breakfast that breaks the mold.
Serving Suggestions
Nacho Supreme is a dish best enjoyed fresh and hot. However, presenting it in a way that keeps it warm and inviting throughout your gathering can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to keep your nachos appealing from the first bite to the last:
Keep Warm: If possible, serve the nachos on a warming tray or a hot plate to keep the cheese melty and the chips crisp.
Individual Servings: Consider making individual nacho cups or mini platters. This way, each guest gets a portion that’s perfectly heated and loaded with toppings.
Dips on the Side: Instead of adding the sour cream, guacamole, and salsa directly on top, serve them on the side. This keeps the chips from getting soggy and lets everyone customize their nacho experience.
Nacho Supreme is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures, making it a beloved choice for any occasion. By following the basic recipe and experimenting with your own variations, you can keep this classic appetizer exciting and new every time you serve it.
Remember, the best nachos are the ones tailored to your personal taste, so don’t be afraid to mix and match ingredients. Whether it’s a family gathering, a party with friends, or a quiet night in, Nacho Supreme is sure to add a dash of fun and a lot of flavor to your table.
