BBQ Beef Nachos

The first time I made these nachos for our Super Bowl party, my brother took one bite and actually stood up to announce they were the best he had ever had. The barbecue beef sauce creates this incredible smoky sweetness that you just cannot get from plain ground beef.

Last summer we hosted friends on our patio and served these alongside cold beers. Everyone gathered around the platter, reaching in for that perfect cheese covered chip, and nobody wanted to leave that corner of the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef: Use 80/20 ratio for the best flavor and texture, the extra fat keeps the beef mixture juicy
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth that balances the smoky barbecue sauce perfectly
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic makes such a difference here, do not even think about using the jarred stuff
• 1 cup (240 ml) barbecue sauce: Pick your favorite bottled sauce or use homemade, just make sure it is one you actually enjoy eating straight
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: This is what gives that authentic smoky barbecue flavor even without a grill
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Season generously but remember the barbecue sauce already has salt in it
• 10 oz (285 g) sturdy tortilla chips: Restaurant style chips work best because they can hold up under all those toppings without getting soggy
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that classic nacho flavor and melts beautifully
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and helps create those gorgeous cheese pulls
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream: Use full fat for the best texture and cooling contrast to the spiced beef
• 1/3 cup (30 g) sliced pickled jalapeños: These add the perfect tangy heat that cuts through all the rich cheese and beef
• 1/2 cup (75 g) diced red onion: Fresh red onion brings crunch and a little sharpness to brighten each bite
• 1/2 cup (80 g) diced tomatoes: Use vine ripened tomatoes and dice them small so they do not make the chips soggy
• 1/4 cup (10 g) chopped fresh cilantro: Sprinkle this on right before serving for a pop of fresh herbal flavor
• 1 avocado, diced (optional): Creamy avocado takes these over the top, but only add it right before serving so it does not brown

Instructions

Get your oven ready:

Preheat to 400°F (200°C) so you are not waiting later when the beef mixture is perfectly done and ready to melt.

Cook the beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Add the flavor:

Add garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute. Stir in barbecue sauce and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.

Build the base:

Spread tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet or ovenproof platter. Use your biggest pan because these will be piled high.

Layer it up:

Spoon the barbecue beef mixture evenly over the chips. Sprinkle with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

Melt it all:

Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it so the chips do not burn.

Add the fresh toppings:

Remove from oven and top with sour cream, pickled jalapeños, diced red onion, tomatoes, cilantro, and avocado if using.

Serve immediately:

These are best enjoyed hot while the cheese is still gooey and the beef is warm. Everyone should dig in right away.

Save

These nachos have become our go to for everything from Friday night movies to unexpected drop in guests. There is something about the combination of smoky barbecue beef and melted cheese that makes people gather around and stay a while.

Make Ahead Magic

You can cook the beef mixture up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, just reheat it gently on the stove while the oven preheats, then assemble and bake. The sauce actually develops more flavor after sitting for a day.

Serving Strategy

I like to set out the baked nachos platter in the center of the table with small bowls of the fresh toppings on the side. This way people can customize their own portions and the chips stay crispy longer. Plus it looks impressive and lets everyone build their perfect bite.

Game Day Win

Double this recipe for a crowd because these disappear fast. The beauty is that you can have everything prepped before guests arrive, then just pop them in the oven during halftime. Set up a toppings bar with extra hot sauce, guacamole, and pickled peppers so everyone can customize.

• Keep extra napkins nearby because these get gloriously messy
• Warm any leftover barbecue sauce for dipping on the side
• Consider serving with lime wedges to squeeze over the top

Save

These BBQ beef nachos turn any ordinary night into something worth celebrating. Gather your people and enjoy every messy, delicious bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the BBQ beef mixture a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling the nachos. This helps save time on game day.

→ What are some other topping suggestions for these nachos?

Beyond the classic toppings, consider adding black beans, corn, black olives, or a drizzle of queso for extra flavor and texture. A sprinkle of crumbled cotija cheese or a spoonful of guacamole can also elevate the dish.

→ How can I make these nachos spicier?

To increase the heat, use a hot barbecue sauce when cooking the beef. You can also add finely chopped fresh jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper directly to the ground beef mixture. A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce at the end would also work.

→ Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even shredded pulled pork or chicken would make excellent substitutes for the ground beef. Adjust cooking times as necessary for different proteins.

→ How do I prevent the nachos from getting soggy?

To minimize sogginess, use sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up to the toppings. Avoid over-saturating the chips with the beef mixture. Most importantly, add any fresh, moist toppings like sour cream, tomatoes, and avocado right before serving.

→ Is this a gluten-free friendly dish?

This dish can be made gluten-free. Ensure that your chosen tortilla chips and barbecue sauce are certified gluten-free. Most other ingredients, such as fresh produce and ground beef, are naturally gluten-free.