Fact: You can’t make nachos without tortilla chips. Another fact: Guacamole is a tortilla chip’s best friend. Ultimate fact: You can’t make nachos without guacamole.
Today, we’re spreading the news that nachos aren’t complete without a side or topping of guacamole. We can confirm that once you put guac on your nachos, they’ll never be the same without it. Nachos with guacamole are a game-changer for tailgate appetizers, a showstopper on movie night, and the most scrumptious go-to grub for snack time, all the time.
Without further ado, here’s why nachos and guacamole go together so perfectly.
Let us paint you a picture: salty tortilla chips covered with gooey melted cheese, fresh pico de gallo, cilantro, and jalapeños. Maybe you enjoy them with seasoned beef or chicken. Perhaps you even drizzle them with your favorite hot sauce. If you think your tummy is grumbling now, just wait till we get to the next part.
Now imagine that, at the top of your sizzling nacho mountain, there’s a giant dollop of guacamole. Its creamy texture works naturally with tortilla chips. Its cooling flavor pairs perfectly with the spice. Its green color adds a bright contrast to the warm colors below. Ohhhh yeah.
A scoop of guac on your nachos is like the bow on a present or the candles on a birthday cake — sure, you don’t need them, but without them, you’re missing out on half the fun. And, unlike bows and candles, guacamole adds an irresistible flavor that will change the nacho game forever. (It’s undeniable! Truly hard-core avocado fans would love a scoop of guacamole on top of their birthday present.)
Now that we have you convinced, it’s time to unveil the ultimate loaded nachos and guacamole recipe. Loaded with three cheeses, carne asada taco seasoning, and a fiesta medley of toppings, this giant serving is crowned with the guac of your choice. Grab plenty of napkins cause things are about to get pretty cheesy and pretty wild.
Before you start building your nachos, start with the cherry — er, the guac on top. Here are some tasty guac options that go well with our nacho recipe:
*Feelin’ crafty and crispy? Make your own delicious tortilla chips by following our easy how-to guide.
**Not to brag, but we have a great guide to the perfect taco seasoning recipe — plus six other spice mixes if you’re feeling avant-garde.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil, then evenly distribute half the tortilla chips around the pan. Sprinkle a 1/2 cup of each cheese over the tortilla chips.
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink. Add 1/4 cup water and the taco seasoning and stir well until the water has reduced. Add the refried beans to the mixture, stirring until well-combined and beans are warm.
Spread half of the beef mixture over the tortilla chips and cheese. Sprinkle with half of the diced onion and jalapeños. Create a second layer on top with the rest of the tortilla chips, cheese, beef, beans, onion, and jalapeño.
Bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts. Let cool and garnish with cilantro, then scoop the guacamole on top like it’s a creamy green crown on your nacho masterpiece. Serve to a room resounding with “ooh,” and “ahh,” and “me first.”
Because who ever says no to extra guac?
To browse even more inspiration for pairing nachos and guacamole, check out our guacamole recipes page.
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