Nachos Recipe

Combine diced tomatoes, diced onion, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño (if using), lime juice and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt in a bowl. Mix gently, taste and adjust salt or lime. Refrigerate while you prepare the rest so flavors meld (15–30 minutes recommended).

For ground beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbs oil. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired. Add cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir to coat, add up to 2 tbs water or broth if mixture is dry, and simmer 2–3 minutes to meld flavors. Remove from heat and keep warm.

For shredded chicken

If using prepared shredded rotisserie chicken, heat 1 tbs oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, sprinkle the same spice mix (cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper) and 1–2 tbs water or broth. Stir and heat until warmed through, about 3–4 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.

For shredded pork

Warm shredded pork in a skillet with 1 tbs oil and the same spice mix listed above. Add 1–2 tbs water or broth if needed and simmer 3–5 minutes until pork is hot and seasoned evenly.

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large rimmed baking sheet or oven-safe platter, spread half of the tortilla chips into an even layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over the chips. Distribute half of the seasoned meat evenly and spoon half of the black beans across the chips. Add another even layer of the remaining chips, then top with the remaining mozzarella, meat and beans.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until cheese is fully melted and bubbling, about 6–8 minutes. For a slightly crispier top, place under the broiler for 30–60 seconds while watching closely.

Remove nachos from the oven. Immediately scatter pico de gallo across the top, add diced or sliced avocado, dollops of sour cream (or pipe if preferred), and optional pickled jalapeños. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Serve hot. If serving family-style, transfer baking sheet to the table or portion onto plates. Leftovers: store components separately (chips will get soft if covered) and reheat meat and beans before reassembling.