Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Nachos are the ultimate snack for any occasion. Whether it’s game day, movie night, or just a craving for something crispy and cheesy, these nachos deliver. They are quick to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Plus, using an air fryer helps achieve that perfect crispy texture without the need for excess oil.
How to Make Air Fryer Nachos
Ingredients
- 1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips (thick-cut recommended)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, pico de gallo
Directions
Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Add taco seasoning and water. Stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Set aside.
Prepare the Refried Beans: Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, heat in a saucepan over low heat. Set aside.
Assemble the Nachos: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper that has holes. Spread a layer of tortilla chips in the basket. Top with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeño slices, and red onion.
Air Fry the Nachos: Carefully place the basket in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are heated through.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the nachos to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Air Fryer Nachos
To serve Air Fryer Nachos, place them on a large platter. Offer a variety of toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pico de gallo so everyone can customize their nachos to their liking. Enjoy your delicious creation right away for the best taste!
How to Store Air Fryer Nachos
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through. Be aware that the chips may lose some crunch.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Nachos
- Use thick-cut tortilla chips to prevent them from getting too soggy.
- Feel free to adjust the toppings to include your favorites. Black beans, corn, or different types of cheese can add extra flavor.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some spices to the ground beef while cooking, such as garlic powder or chili powder.
Variation
For a vegetarian version of Air Fryer Nachos, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils. You can also add in extra veggies like bell peppers or corn for a colorful and healthy twist.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for nachos?
Yes! You can use any cheese you prefer. Pepper Jack cheese works well if you want a little spice.
How do I make nachos spicier?
Add more jalapeños or sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before air frying. You can also use spicy salsa as a topping.
Can I use different types of chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of tortilla chip, or even pita chips, as a base for your nachos. Just keep in mind that different chips may yield different textures.
Print
Air Fryer Nachos
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Crispy and cheesy Air Fryer Nachos, perfect for game day or movie night, customizable to suit your tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips (thick-cut recommended)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, pico de gallo
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Add taco seasoning and water. Stir to combine and simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened.
- Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes or in a saucepan over low heat until heated through.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper that has holes. Spread a layer of tortilla chips in the basket and top with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeño slices, and red onion.
- Carefully place the basket in the air fryer set to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the chips are heated through.
- Transfer the nachos to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings.
Notes
For best results, use thick-cut tortilla chips. Customize toppings to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg