How to Make Crispy and Cheesy Air Fryer Nachos at Home

All time favorite Air Fryer Nachos Recipe

These crispy and cheesy air fryer nachos are the ultimate game-day snack or weeknight treat. Packed with layers of tortilla chips, perfectly seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings like diced tomatoes and scallions, this recipe is quick, easy, and endlessly customizable. With just a handful of simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a delicious appetizer or main course in minutes!

The Inspiration Behind This Recipe

One warm football Sunday, I craved something quick, crunchy, and satisfying. Turning to my air fryer, I decided to experiment with nachos, layering tortilla chips with all my favorite toppings. The result was a plate of nachos so crispy and flavorful that it became a staple in my recipe collection. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your nachos game without using an oven, this air fryer recipe is your go-to!

Ingredients Required

• Ground Beef: Adds hearty protein to your nachos. You can also use leftover taco meat or substitute with chicken, pork, or even a plant-based alternative.
• Spices (Chili Powder, Cumin, Oregano, Salt, Pepper): These seasonings create a bold and flavorful base for your nachos.
• Tortilla Chips: Opt for sturdy triangle or rectangle chips that can hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that signature cheesy goodness. A Mexican cheese blend is also a great option.
• Roma Tomato and Bell Pepper: Bring freshness and a pop of color to the dish.
• Scallions and Fresh Cilantro: Perfect for garnishing and adding a burst of flavor.
• Optional Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, pickled jalapeños, salsa, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate your nachos.

Tips for Perfect Nachos

1. Layer Thoughtfully: Ensure each chip gets its fair share of toppings. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: This ensures that your nachos turn out crispy right from the start.
3. Serve Immediately: Nachos are best enjoyed fresh, while the cheese is gooey and the chips are crisp.
4. Customize Freely: Whether you prefer vegetarian nachos with black beans or spicy nachos with jalapeños, the possibilities are endless.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Vegetarian Nachos: Swap the ground beef for black beans, refried beans, or grilled vegetables.
2. Protein Swaps: Use shredded chicken, pulled pork, or even crumbled sausage for a twist.
3. Sweet and Spicy Combo: Add a drizzle of honey and sprinkle chili powder for a unique flavor profile.
4. Doritos Alternative: Replace tortilla chips with nacho-flavored Doritos for extra cheesy nachos.
5. Taco Seasoning Shortcut: Use a store-bought taco seasoning packet if you’re short on time.

Storing and Reheating Nachos

1. Storage: Place leftover nachos in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Reheat nachos in a preheated air fryer at 320°F for 2–3 minutes. This will restore their crispiness.

FAQs About Air Fryer Nachos

1. How Long Do Nachos Take in the Air Fryer?
   Nachos take about 5 minutes at 320°F when the air fryer is preheated. Adjust the timing slightly based on the quantity.
2. Can I Make Vegan Nachos?
   Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese and swap the ground beef for seasoned tofu crumbles or black beans.
3. What’s the Best Way to Prevent Soggy Chips?
   Avoid overloading chips with wet ingredients like salsa or guacamole before air frying. Instead, serve them on the side.

Easy Air Fryer Nachos Recipe

These air fryer nachos are easy, crunchy, and cheesy. They’re made with tortilla chips, ground beef, cheese, and a simple seasoning to enjoy every game day!

Duration

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Course: Snack or Appetizer

Cuisine: Mexican

Servings: 4

Calories: 551 kcal

Ingredients:

• ½ lb ground beef
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 4 cups tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 roma tomato, diced
• ½ bell pepper, diced
• 1 scallion, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sour cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef with chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Once cooked, drain the fat and set aside.
2. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
3. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Layer half of the tortilla chips, followed by half the shredded cheese, diced tomato, bell pepper, and cooked beef. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
4. Air fry for 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
5. Top with sliced scallions, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately with your favorite side dips like guacamole or salsa.

Notes:

• For evenly crispy chips, avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
• Preheating ensures optimal crispiness and faster cooking.
• Store leftovers with parchment paper to keep chips from sticking together.

Nutrition

Serving: 1

Calories: 551kcal

Carbohydrates: 26g

Protein: 31g

Fat: 36g

Saturated Fat: 16g

Polyunsaturated Fat: 16g

Trans Fat: 1g

Cholesterol: 108mg

Sodium: 813mg

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 2g

This nutrition information is based on the exact products I used in this recipe. Brands and sizes of products could alter exact nutrition and should always be calculated independently.