Cheese nachos are a classic, crowd-pleasing snack that is perfect for parties, game nights, or simply enjoying a tasty treat at home. This easy recipe features crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese and your favorite toppings. Customize your nachos with ingredients like jalapeños, black beans, and sour cream to make them your own. Ready in just minutes, these cheese nachos are sure to be a hit!

Appliances and Special Utensils

  • Oven or microwave
  • Baking sheet (if using oven)
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil (if using oven)
  • Oven mitts (if using oven)
  • Microwave-safe plate (if using microwave)

Ingredients

  • 1 bag (12 oz) tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • Optional toppings:
    • 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños
    • 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
    • 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
    • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
    • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1/2 cup guacamole
    • 1/2 cup salsa

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven (if using): Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Prepare Baking Sheet (if using oven): Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

  3. Arrange Chips: Spread the tortilla chips in an even layer on the baking sheet or a microwave-safe plate.

  4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla chips.

  5. Add Toppings (Optional): Add any desired toppings such as sliced jalapeños, black beans, chopped tomatoes, black olives, and green onions.

  6. Melt Cheese:

    • Oven Method: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Microwave Method: Place the plate in the microwave and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
  7. Remove and Serve: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven using oven mitts, or the plate from the microwave. Let the nachos cool slightly before serving.

  8. Garnish and Enjoy: Top the nachos with additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade cheese nachos!