Why Make This Recipe

Air fryer nachos are a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved classic snack while keeping things simple and crispy. They make for a perfect appetizer for gatherings, movie nights, or a quick weeknight treat. Using an air fryer means you can achieve that delightful crunch without deep frying, which makes these nachos lighter and healthier. Plus, they come together in a flash!

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:

1. 
   

   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, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

   
   
2. 
   

   Prepare the Refried Beans: Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes until hot. You can also use a saucepan over low heat. Set aside.

   
   
3. 
   

   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, then top with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeño slices, and red onion.

   
   
4. 
   

   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.

   
   
5. 
   

   Garnish and Serve: Transfer the nachos to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

   
   

How to Serve Air Fryer Nachos

Serve your air fryer nachos fresh out of the air fryer for the best taste and texture. You can set up a toppings bar with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and pico de gallo so everyone can customize their nachos to their liking.

How to Store Air Fryer Nachos

If you have leftover nachos (which is rare!), let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the chips might lose their crunch when reheated.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Nachos

• Use Thick-Cut Chips: Choosing thick-cut tortilla chips helps prevent sogginess from the toppings.
• Layer Wisely: Make sure to distribute the ingredients evenly for consistent flavor and texture.
• Watch the Time: Air fryers vary, so keep an eye on your nachos to avoid burning.

Variation

Feel free to switch up the protein by using ground turkey or chicken, or even make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans or vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match different cheeses to your taste. Pepper Jack or a Mexican blend can add extra flavor.

2. How spicy are these nachos?
The spice level can depend on the amount of jalapeños you use. You can adjust this to your liking by adding more or leaving some out.

3. Can I make nachos without meat?
Absolutely! You can easily make meatless nachos by adding more beans, grilled veggies, or just extra cheese.

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Air Fryer Nachos

Enjoy a crispy and lighter version of a classic snack with these air fryer nachos, perfect for appetizers or movie nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Chips and Base

• 1 bag tortilla chips (10-12 ounces, thick-cut recommended)
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning (1 ounce)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 can refried beans (15 ounce)
• 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 to taste
• guacamole to taste
• salsa to taste
• pico de gallo to taste

Instructions

 

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, and reduce heat to low.
• Simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

Prepare the Refried Beans

• Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes until hot, or use 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.
• Spread a layer of tortilla chips in the basket, then 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 and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

For best taste and texture, serve your nachos fresh out of the air fryer. Use thick-cut chips to prevent sogginess, and layer ingredients wisely for consistent flavor. Watch cooking time as air fryers may vary. Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but chips may lose crunch when reheated.

Keyword Air Fryer Nachos, Easy Nachos, Mexican Snack, Nachos Recipe, Taco Night