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Best Dump-and-Bake Cheesy Tailgate Nachos

dump-and-bake cheesy tailgate nachos - featured image

A quick, easy, and comforting late-night snack made by dumping sturdy tortilla chips, black beans, queso, cheese, and spices into a casserole dish and baking until golden and bubbly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1214 ounces sturdy, thick-cut tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably freshly grated from a block)
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (10-ounce) jar queso blanco or yellow queso
  • 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 pound cooked ground beef or turkey with taco seasoning (optional)
  • Diced tomatoes (for topping)
  • Sliced jalapeños (for topping)
  • Chopped cilantro (for topping)
  • Sour cream (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pour tortilla chips into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread into an even layer.
  3. In a large bowl, combine rinsed black beans, jar of queso, diced green chiles (with liquid), and spices (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder). Stir to coat beans.
  4. If using ground beef or turkey, add it to the bean mixture and stir to combine.
  5. Pour the bean and cheese mixture over the chips in the baking dish. Spread gently to ensure chips are coated.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and chip edges are slightly golden.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to set.
  9. Top with diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, and sour cream.
  10. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use sturdy, thick-cut tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Grate your own cheese for better melting. Do not add wet toppings like salsa or sour cream before baking. If using a sheet pan, watch closely to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: dump and bake nachos, tailgate food, easy nachos, cheesy nachos, game day snacks, quick dinner, comfort food