Who says you need a party to enjoy nachos? This One-Pan Beefy Nacho Casserole takes all the flavors of your favorite loaded nachos and transforms them into a hearty, oven-baked comfort dish perfect for any night of the week. We’re talking about seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, bold spices, and crunchy chips all layered together in one bubbling, golden casserole that’s guaranteed to bring the fiesta straight to your dinner table.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, planning a game-day meal, or simply craving something warm and cheesy, this casserole delivers serious flavor with minimal effort. No frying, no stacking, and no fuss—just one pan, a few simple ingredients, and a whole lot of Tex-Mex deliciousness. This easy recipe serves 4 to 5 people, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or small gatherings. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups crushed tortilla chips
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- ½ cup sour cream (for topping)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or cilantro (for garnish)
Step-by-Step How to Make Beefy Nacho Casserole
1. Preheat and Brown the Beef
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Flavor and Mix-ins
Add the garlic, and cook for another minute. Then stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes to bring the flavors together.
3. Layer the Casserole
In a lightly greased baking dish, sprinkle a layer of crushed tortilla chips across the bottom. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the chips, then sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat with another layer of chips, the remaining beef, and top with the rest of the cheese.
4. Bake to Melty Perfection
Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before topping with sour cream, green onions, and any of your favorite nacho garnishes.
Tips for the Best Nacho Casserole
- Don’t over-layer the chips. A light, even layer prevents sogginess and keeps some crunch.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture—it makes a big difference.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking so the layers set and are easier to scoop.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to revive the crunch.
Customization Ideas
- Switch the Protein: Use ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even seasoned lentils for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese Swap: Monterey Jack, cheddar, or pepper jack all work beautifully in this dish.
- Add Heat: Stir chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, corn, or even spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Just use certified gluten-free tortilla chips and double-check your canned ingredients.
This Beefy Nacho Casserole is everything we love about classic nachos—savory, cheesy, crunchy, and bold—but baked into a warm, comforting casserole that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table fast, thanks to the irresistible aroma of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and zesty enchilada-style flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or a cozy night in when you’re craving something hearty and fun.
What makes it even better? It’s completely customizable. You can make it spicy or mild, load it up with toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or sour cream, and even sneak in some extra veggies if you like. It’s rich enough to satisfy big appetites, yet simple enough to whip up after a long day, with minimal prep and only one pan to clean. So the next time you’re tempted to call in takeout, remember this crowd-pleasing favorite. From game day to weeknight, this one-pan nacho bake delivers bold flavor, comforting textures, and plenty of fun. One bite and you’ll be hooked—so go ahead and bring the fiesta home tonight!
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