Air Fryer Nachos: The Ultimate Guide to Crispy, Delicious Nachos Recipe
These Air Fryer Nachos offer a quick and easy way to create crispy, cheesy nachos topped with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, jalapeños, and fresh garnishes. Perfectly melted cheese and crunchy chips make this snack ideal for game days or casual gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
Chips
- 1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips (thick-cut recommended)
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
Beans and Cheese
- 1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Toppings
- 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
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. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Set aside.
- Prepare the Refried Beans: Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, or alternatively in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Set aside.
- Assemble the Nachos: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line with parchment paper with holes. Spread a layer of tortilla chips in the basket. Top evenly 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 temperature to 350°F (175°C). Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chips are warmed through.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the nachos to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional jalapeños if desired. Serve immediately with optional sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.
Notes
- Use thick-cut tortilla chips to prevent sogginess.
- You can prepare the beef and beans ahead of time for quicker assembly.
- If you prefer extra crispy chips, air fry the chips alone for 1-2 minutes before assembling.
- Adjust jalapeño quantity according to desired spice level.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with seasoned sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative.
Keywords: air fryer nachos, crispy nachos, cheesy nachos, Mexican snack, quick nachos, easy appetizer
