LOADED CHEESEBURGER NACHOS

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Drain the Fat: Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
3. Add Seasoning: Stir in a tablespoon of ketchup and mustard to the beef, adding more to taste if desired. Mix until well combined. Set the seasoned beef aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Nachos

1. Layer the Chips: On a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish, spread out a generous layer of tortilla chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
2. Add the Ground Beef: Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the chips.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar cheese and American cheese on top of the beef and chips, making sure to cover everything generously.

Step 3: Bake the Nachos

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Place the nachos in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
3. Check for Crispiness: If you like your chips extra crispy, bake them a little longer, but be careful not to burn the cheese.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. Add Fresh Toppings: Once the nachos are out of the oven, top them with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, and pickles.
2. Drizzle with Condiments: For the full cheeseburger experience, drizzle a little ketchup and mustard over the top. You can also add a dollop of mayonnaise if you like.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the nachos immediately while the cheese is gooey and the toppings are fresh.

Tips for Perfect Loaded Cheeseburger Nachos

• Use Sturdy Chips: Make sure to use sturdy tortilla chips that can hold up to the weight of the toppings. Thin chips may get soggy too quickly.
• Customize the Toppings: While pickles, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce are classic cheeseburger toppings, feel free to get creative. Add bacon bits for an extra smoky flavor, or swap the lettuce for arugula for a peppery twist.
• Make Them Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños to the nachos before baking or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top.
• Use Two Types of Cheese: A blend of cheddar and American cheese gives the nachos both flavor and creaminess. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try adding some Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftover Loaded Cheeseburger Nachos (though that’s unlikely!), you can store them in the fridge:

1. Cool Down: Allow the nachos to cool to room temperature.
2. Store: Place the leftover nachos in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
3. Reheat: To reheat, bake the nachos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melty again. Be mindful that the fresh toppings, like lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles, should be added after reheating to keep them fresh.

Pairing Ideas

These Loaded Cheeseburger Nachos are rich and filling, so they pair well with a variety of beverages:

• Cold Beers: A cold beer, like a lager or pilsner, complements the flavors of the nachos perfectly.
• Sodas: If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a classic soda, such as cola or root beer, pairs wonderfully with these cheesy nachos.
• Milkshakes: For a fun and indulgent treat, serve these nachos with a creamy milkshake, like chocolate or vanilla, for a nostalgic, burger-and-fries experience.