Name: Instant Pot Cheesy Beef Nachos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups taco meat; 12 oz tortilla chips; 2 cups shredded cheese ((cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)); 3 tablespoons sour cream; 1 small handful chopped fresh coriander/cilantro leaves

Get ready to dive into a plate of gooey, cheesy goodness with these Instant Pot Cheesy Beef Nachos! This dish is perfect for game day, family movie nights, or just any occasion that calls for a delicious snack. The combination of savory taco meat, crispy tortilla chips, and a mountain of melted cheese makes for an irresistible treat. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up the beef filling in no time, making this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall head over heels for this recipe! First and foremost, it’s incredibly simple to prepare. The Instant Pot takes the hassle out of cooking, allowing the flavors of the beef to meld beautifully while you prepare the toppings. Secondly, it’s customizable! You can adjust the toppings to suit your taste, whether you prefer more cheese, additional toppings, or a spicy kick. Lastly, this dish is perfect for sharing (or not!) and guarantees to please a crowd with its hearty, comforting flavors.

What You’ll Need

2 cups taco meat (see recipe below)
12 oz tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
3 tablespoons sour cream
Small handful chopped fresh coriander/cilantro leaves

Gear Checklist

Instant Pot: The star of the show for cooking the beef quickly and efficiently.
Large Baking Sheet: For assembling and baking your nachos to melty perfection.
Mixing Bowl: To combine ingredients if you want to prepare the taco meat separately.
Spatula or Spoon: For layering your nachos and serving up the deliciousness.

Stepwise Method: Instant Pot Cheesy Beef Nachos

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Meat

To kick things off, let’s prepare the taco meat! You can find a delicious recipe for taco meat that combines ground beef with your favorite spices, diced tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Cook it in the Instant Pot, and once it’s ready, shred and set aside.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Before you assemble your nachos, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your nachos get nice and crispy in the final baking stage.

Step 3: Layer the Chips

On a large baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer. Make sure they are close together but not overlapping too much to ensure every chip gets its fair share of toppings.

Step 4: Add the Taco Meat

Now it’s time to pile on the flavor! Spoon the prepared taco meat evenly over the chips. Don’t be shy; this is where the hearty goodness comes into play!

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the nachos. The more cheese, the better! If you’re feeling adventurous, consider mixing different types of cheese for added flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Step 7: Add Toppings

Once out of the oven, let your nachos cool for a minute. Drizzle sour cream over the top and sprinkle with fresh coriander/cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Grab a fork or some extra chips and dig in! These Instant Pot Cheesy Beef Nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the cheese is hot and gooey.

Make It Fit Your Plan

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the taco meat with black beans or lentils for a plant-based version.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to elevate the heat.
Extra Veggies: Load up on toppings like diced tomatoes, olives, or green onions for added freshness.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as pepper jack or queso blanco, for unique flavors.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while making your Instant Pot Cheesy Beef Nachos, here are a few tips:

Too soggy? Make sure your chips are properly layered and not overloaded with toppings.
Cheese not melting? Ensure your oven is fully preheated, and consider broiling for a minute at the end for a bubbly finish.
Meat too dry? Add a touch of beef broth or water to the Instant Pot while cooking the taco meat for added moisture.
Not enough flavor? Taste your taco meat before assembly and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you find yourself with leftover nachos (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the components separate if possible to maintain the crunch of the chips. Reheat the taco meat in the microwave or on the stove, and assemble fresh nachos when you’re ready to eat. For meal prep, you can prepare the taco meat in advance and store it, making it easy to throw together nachos on a whim!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While nachos are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the taco meat in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble the nachos just before baking for the best texture.

What type of cheese is best for nachos?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Mexican cheese blends are all excellent choices for nachos. Feel free to mix and match for a cheesy delight!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free tortilla chips, and you’re good to go. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Final Thoughts

The beauty of Instant Pot Cheesy Beef Nachos lies in their simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress. With layers of crispy chips, savory meat, and melty cheese, every bite is a delicious explosion of flavor. Remember to customize it to your liking, and don’t forget the toppings!

So, gather your ingredients, fire up that Instant Pot, and get ready to enjoy a delightful plate of nachos that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Happy snacking!