Easy Beef Nachos for Game Night

Published on February 11, 2026

By Amberly Vahn

Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4-6 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.

Quick Answer

This Beef Nachos recipe combines seasoned beef, melting cheese, and fresh toppings for an irresistible game night treat that’s perfect for sharing.

When the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp here in New York City, I always find myself craving cozy gatherings with friends and family. With Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner, I’ve been experimenting in my kitchen, crafting dishes that bring everyone together. This Beef Nachos recipe is my go-to for game nights and festive get-togethers alike. Loaded with flavors and textures, these nachos offer a comforting yet exciting dish perfect for sharing.

A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for cozy gatherings, bringing friends and family together.
• Loaded with flavors and textures that create a satisfying experience.
• Customizable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for game nights.
• Leftovers (if any) are easy to store and reheat, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Ingredients

This Beef Nachos recipe is made with fresh, flavorful ingredients that you’ll love.

For the Nachos:

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably grass-fed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (sweet onions work beautifully)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 bag (12 ounces) tortilla chips (thick-cut for a hearty crunch)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar for extra flavor)
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 avocado, diced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

How to Make Beef Nachos (Step-by-Step)

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Beef Nachos for your next gathering.

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it soften, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, about a minute later. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, roughly 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Season it Up

Once the beef is browned, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture and stir in a couple of tablespoons of water. This will create those delicious, seasoned bits that coat the chips. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 3: Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a large baking sheet, spread a layer of tortilla chips. Scatter half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by half of the black beans. Then, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheese on top. Repeat this process with another layer of chips, beef, beans, and cheese.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Put your nachos in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. You’ll know they’re ready when the delightful aroma fills the air.

Step 5: Toppings Galore

After removing the nachos from the oven, add the diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and avocado on top. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream in the center for that creamy goodness with every bite. Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you choose.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overloading with Toppings: Avoid the tendency to pile on too many toppings, as they can make the nachos soggy. Layer strategically!
• Using Low-Quality Chips: Resist the urge to use thin, flimsy tortilla chips; they won’t hold up under all that deliciousness.
• Skip the Waiting: After taking the nachos out of the oven, let them rest for a couple of minutes before diving in to allow everything to set slightly, which enhances the eating experience.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• For added flavor, consider adding pickled red onions or fresh lime wedges to the serving tray.
• Feel free to swap the ground beef for seasoned chicken or turkey; vegetarian options can include roasted veggies or black olives.
• These nachos are best served fresh from the oven but also pair well with sides of salsa and guacamole for extra dipping joy.

Variations

• Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken or ground turkey.
• Use sweet potatoes or zucchini chips instead of traditional tortilla chips for a healthier twist.
• Add a layer of refried beans instead of black beans for a creamy texture.
• Incorporate different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor.
• Add toppings like corn, olives, or diced bell peppers for extra color and taste.

How to Serve

• Serve the nachos straight from the oven on a large platter for a communal experience.
• Accompany with small bowls of guacamole, salsa, and sour cream on the side.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.
• Pair with your favorite beverages for a fun game night or gathering atmosphere.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Prepare the beef mixture and store in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling the nachos.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, though chips may lose crunch.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the chips won’t maintain their texture upon thawing.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

This recipe has taught me how essential balance is. The layers of flavors—from the seasoned beef to the cool cream and fresh avocado—create an incredible experience not just in taste but in texture, making every bite satisfying. Plus, everyone loves a good nacho night, which means it’s perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones. Enjoy!

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: About 1 cup nachos

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 22g protein · 40g carbs · 25g fat

Amberly Vahn

Easy Beef Nachos for Game Night

This Beef Nachos recipe combines seasoned beef, melting cheese, and fresh toppings for an irresistible game night treat that’s perfect for sharing.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Group: Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef (preferably grass-fed)
• 1 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (sweet onions work beautifully)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 bag (12 ounces) tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 jalapeño sliced (adjust for heat preference)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 avocado diced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it soften, filling your kitchen with a sweet aroma. Stir in the minced garlic until fragrant, about a minute later. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, roughly 5-7 minutes.
2. Once the beef is browned, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture and stir in a couple of tablespoons of water. This will create those delicious, seasoned bits that coat the chips. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a large baking sheet, spread a layer of tortilla chips. Scatter half of the beef mixture over the chips, followed by half of the black beans. Then, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheese on top. Repeat this process with another layer of chips, beef, beans, and cheese.
4. Put your nachos in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. You’ll know they’re ready when the delightful aroma fills the air.
5. After removing the nachos from the oven, add the diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and avocado on top. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream in the center for that creamy goodness with every bite. Finish your dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you choose.

Notes

To avoid sogginess, layer your toppings strategically and resist the urge to overload them. Use quality, thick-cut tortilla chips for better support.

FAQs