Easy Air Fryer Nachos: Crispy, Cheesy Perfection in Just 15 Minutes!
If you’re craving gooey, crispy, fully loaded nachos but don’t want the hassle of preheating a traditional oven, this air fryer nachos recipe is your ultimate solution. Ready in just 15 minutes, this simple recipe delivers irresistible layers of melty cheese, perfectly seasoned beef, and all your favorite toppings, all with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Get ready to elevate your snack or mealtime with these incredibly quick and easy homemade nachos.
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About These Air Fryer Nachos
In our busy lives, discovering a truly simple yet satisfying meal is like striking gold. These Air Fryer Nachos are precisely that – a culinary lifesaver for those moments when time is short but cravings for something hearty and delicious are high. Forget complicated recipes or lengthy cooking times; these nachos are designed for minimal fuss and maximum flavor, making them a fantastic choice for a quick snack, a laid-back dinner, or the ultimate game day appetizer.
What sets these nachos apart is not just their incredible speed but also their versatility. Your air fryer transforms humble tortilla chips into perfectly crispy foundations, ready to be piled high with savory ingredients. This recipe becomes a canvas for whatever ingredients you have on hand, allowing for endless customization. Leftover roasted chicken? An assortment of garden-fresh vegetables? Craving a double dose of cheese? Whatever your preference, these air fryer nachos adapt effortlessly, blending pantry staples with everyday ingredients for a meal that truly hits the spot.
Let’s dive into why these Air Fryer Nachos are about to become your new go-to recipe:
- Unbelievably Quick: The air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to speed. Unlike a conventional oven that requires extensive preheating, your air fryer gets the job done in mere minutes. You can go from zero to fully loaded, cheesy, crispy nachos in approximately 15 minutes, with only about 5 minutes of actual cooking time. This makes them perfect for spontaneous gatherings or those sudden snack attacks.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy movie night, a busy weeknight demanding a stress-free dinner, or a lively gathering needing crowd-pleasing appetizers, these air fryer nachos are always a hit. Their ease of preparation ensures you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious food with friends and family.
- Fully Customizable: The beauty of nachos lies in their adaptability. This recipe encourages you to get creative. Choose your favorite protein – seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or even a vegetarian bean base – and pile on your preferred fresh toppings. Love extra heat? Add more jalapeños. Prefer them bursting with fresh vegetables? Load them up! This flexibility ensures everyone gets exactly what they crave.
- Effortless Cleanup: One of the often-overlooked benefits of using an air fryer for nachos is the remarkably easy cleanup. By lining your air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper, you eliminate the worry of scrubbing off melted cheese or sticky residue. Simply enjoy your delicious nachos, discard the parchment paper, and relax!
These reasons combine to make air fryer nachos not just a recipe, but a smart, delicious solution for modern cooking. It’s about enjoying maximum flavor and satisfaction with minimum fuss.
Ingredients for Ultimate Air Fryer Nachos
Crafting the perfect batch of air fryer nachos starts with quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and how each component contributes to a fantastic eating experience:
- Ground Beef: This forms the hearty, savory foundation of your nachos. Seasoned with a blend of classic Tex-Mex spices, ground beef delivers that satisfying, robust flavor that nacho lovers adore. Opt for a leaner ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) to minimize excess grease. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned and slightly crispy, then ensure you drain any accumulated fat thoroughly. This step is crucial for preventing your nachos from becoming oily and ensures the chips retain their crispness.
- Spices: The magic is in the mix! You’ll need a combination of chili powder for a warm, earthy base, ground cumin for its distinct smoky aroma, dried oregano to add herbaceous depth, and of course, salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance all the flavors. These spices work together to create a robust, authentic seasoning for your beef, making every bite sing.
- Tortilla Chips: The backbone of your nachos! The key here is to choose sturdy, high-quality tortilla chips that can withstand the weight of your delicious toppings without becoming soggy. Avoid thin, delicate chips; instead, look for thicker, more robust varieties. Chips with a light salt coating are ideal as they balance the rich flavors of the other ingredients without overpowering them. Consider experimenting with blue corn or hint-of-lime chips for an extra twist.
- Mexican Cheese Blend: A delicious medley of cheeses is essential for that signature gooey, melty perfection. A good Mexican cheese blend typically includes Monterey Jack and cheddar, known for their superior melting capabilities and rich flavor. For added depth, you can sprinkle in a bit of tangy queso fresco or some zesty pepper jack for a gentle kick. Shredding your own block of cheese will always yield a creamier melt than pre-shredded varieties, as the latter often contains anti-caking agents.
- Red Onion: Finely diced red onion provides a vibrant pop of sharp, tangy flavor and a satisfying crunch. If you find raw onion too potent, a quick trick is to soak the diced onion in cold water for about 5-10 minutes before using; this mellows its intensity considerably.
- Bell Pepper: Bell peppers add beautiful color, a sweet crunch, and a fresh counterpoint to the richness of the meat and cheese. Using a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers will make your nachos visually stunning and add varied layers of flavor. Dice them finely so they cook evenly and integrate seamlessly into the cheesy layers.
Optional Toppings for Your Air Fryer Nachos
Nachos are all about customization! Here are some fantastic optional toppings to elevate your air fryer nachos to gourmet status:
- Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro just before serving brightens up the entire dish. Its fresh, citrusy notes cut through the richness of the cheese and meat, adding an essential layer of flavor and aroma.
- Sour Cream: For a cool, creamy, and tangy contrast, a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option) is a must. Swirl it directly on top, or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Guacamole: Creamy, rich, and wonderfully flavorful, homemade guacamole adds a luxurious touch. Use perfectly ripe avocados, mashed with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, a pinch of salt, and maybe some finely diced onion or tomato for that zesty, irresistible kick.
- Jalapeños: Whether you prefer fresh slices for a crisp, vibrant heat or pickled jalapeños for a milder, tangy spice, these peppers bring the quintessential nacho kick. Slice them thinly for even distribution, and if you’re feeling adventurous, leave some seeds in for extra fire!
- Diced Tomato: Freshly diced tomatoes offer a juicy, refreshing burst that lightens the overall dish. Choose ripe, firm tomatoes and drain off any excess liquid to prevent your chips from becoming watery. Roma tomatoes work particularly well for their firm flesh and minimal seeds.
- Black Olives: Sliced black olives add a briny, savory note and a pleasing texture.
- Canned Green Chiles: For a mild, smoky flavor without much heat, diced canned green chiles are an excellent addition.
- Corn: Fresh or frozen (thawed) corn kernels add sweetness and a lovely pop of texture.
- Salsa: A vibrant salsa, whether homemade or store-bought, offers another layer of fresh, tangy flavor.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh blend of chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice provides a bright, zesty topping.
- Refried Beans or Black Beans: For a heartier nacho, especially if going vegetarian, adding a layer of warm refried beans or seasoned black beans is a fantastic idea.
Essential Tools for Air Fryer Nachos
Having the right kitchen tools on hand can make preparing these delicious air fryer nachos even simpler and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth cooking process:
- A Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: These are indispensable for efficient and safe food preparation. A sturdy cutting board provides a stable surface for all your chopping needs, while a sharp chef’s knife makes quick work of dicing onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and any other fresh toppings you choose to add. Investing in good quality knives makes all the difference in prep time and safety.
- An Air Fryer: The star of this recipe! An air fryer is truly a game-changer for nachos, delivering unparalleled crispiness to the chips and achieving that perfectly gooey, melted cheese in record time. The circulating hot air ensures even cooking and a delightful texture that’s hard to beat with conventional methods. Whether you have a basket-style or an oven-style air fryer, this appliance will revolutionize your nacho experience.
- Parchment Paper: Don’t skip this simple yet crucial item! Lining your air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper is the secret to a hassle-free cleanup. It creates a non-stick barrier, preventing any delicious but sticky melted cheese from adhering to your air fryer. This saves you valuable time and effort, allowing you to enjoy your nachos without the dread of scrubbing later. Plus, it makes transferring the finished nachos much easier.
With these essential tools, you’re well-equipped to create the ultimate air fryer nachos with ease and efficiency.
How to Make Air Fryer Nachos: Step-by-Step Guide
Making delicious air fryer nachos is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cheesy and crispy results every time:
1. Prepare the Beef
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add your ground beef along with the chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and freshly cracked pepper. Cook the beef for approximately 3-5 minutes, continuously breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula until it is fully browned and cooked through. It’s essential to drain any excess fat thoroughly from the skillet. This step prevents your nachos from becoming greasy and ensures the chips remain delightfully crispy. Set the seasoned beef aside while you prepare the other components.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
If your particular air fryer model requires preheating (most do for optimal results), set it to 320°F (160°C). Allowing the air fryer to come to temperature ensures that the nachos cook evenly and the cheese melts quickly and perfectly as soon as they go in. This brief preheating period can make a significant difference in the final texture of your nachos.
3. Layer the Chips and Toppings
Line the air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper. This vital step ensures easy cleanup and prevents anything from sticking. Arrange half of your tortilla chips in an even layer across the bottom. Next, generously top this layer with half of the seasoned ground beef, half of the shredded Mexican cheese blend, half of the diced red onion, and half of the diced bell pepper. Repeat this layering process with the remaining chips, beef, cheese, and vegetables to build a second, equally delicious layer. This two-layer approach ensures that every chip gets a good amount of toppings and cheese.
4. Cook the Nachos
Carefully place the loaded air fryer basket or tray into your preheated air fryer. Air fry for approximately 5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the tortilla chips are heated through and crisp. Keep a close eye on them, as air fryer cooking times can vary slightly depending on your specific model and how heavily loaded your nachos are. The goal is perfectly melted cheese and warm, crisp chips, not burnt edges.
5. Garnish and Serve
Once cooked to perfection, carefully remove the nachos from the air fryer. Transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro to add a burst of freshness and color. Now comes the fun part: serve your hot and crispy nachos with your choice of additional toppings. Popular choices include cool sour cream, creamy guacamole, zesty salsa, and extra diced jalapeños for those who love a bit more heat. Provide small bowls of these toppings for everyone to customize their plate.
6. Enjoy Immediately
Air fryer nachos are at their absolute best when served piping hot and fresh. The chips are crispy, the cheese is gloriously melty, and the flavors are at their peak. Don’t let them sit too long, as the chips can start to soften. Gather your friends and family and dive into this irresistible, easy-to-make treat without delay!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Nachos
Achieving perfectly crispy, cheesy air fryer nachos every time is easy with a few simple tips and tricks. Follow these guidelines to elevate your nacho game:
- Always Preheat Your Air Fryer: For the most consistent and best results, always take the extra minute or two to preheat your air fryer. Many models tend to run cooler if not preheated, which can lead to uneven cooking and cheese that doesn’t melt quite right. Preheating ensures the chips start crisping and the cheese starts melting immediately upon entering the hot environment, making all the difference in texture and speed.
- Don’t Forget the Parchment Paper: This is a non-negotiable step for easy cleanup. Lining your air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper prevents any sticky, melted cheese from clinging to the surface. Not only does this save you from scrubbing later, but it also helps in easily removing the entire batch of nachos from the air fryer, keeping them intact. Make sure the parchment paper is cut to fit and doesn’t obstruct the air circulation too much.
- Distribute Toppings Evenly: The secret to truly satisfying nachos is ensuring every chip is loaded with flavor. Avoid the common pitfall of having a bottom layer of plain chips by distributing your toppings in two separate layers. This method guarantees that cheese, beef, and vegetables are spread throughout the nachos, so every single bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Keep Toppings Small: For optimal cooking and texture, dice your fresh toppings like onions and bell peppers finely. Smaller pieces soften nicely during the short air frying time, integrating perfectly into the cheesy layers without remaining raw or too crunchy. This also ensures a better distribution of flavor in each bite.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: While tempting to cook a large batch at once, avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. Air fryers work by circulating hot air, and if the basket is too full, the air can’t circulate effectively. This leads to soggy chips and unevenly melted cheese. If you’re making a larger quantity, cook in batches to maintain quality.
- Use Good Quality Chips: As mentioned in the ingredients section, opt for sturdy, thicker tortilla chips. Thinner chips can burn easily or become soggy under the weight of the toppings. Hearty chips hold up much better to the heat and the delicious additions.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: For the ultimate gooey melt, shred cheese from a block yourself instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder a smooth, creamy melt.
- Got Leftovers? Reheat in the Air Fryer: The best way to revive leftover nachos is back in the air fryer! Place them in the basket, perhaps with a fresh sprinkle of cheese for good measure, and air fry for a few minutes until everything is warm and melty again. This brings back much of their original crispiness.
- Serve on a Warm Platter: To keep your nachos warm for longer, especially if serving a crowd, consider warming your serving platter slightly before arranging the nachos on it.
Creative Variations for Your Nachos
The beauty of nachos lies in their adaptability. Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize your air fryer nachos with these exciting variations:
- Spicy Beef Nachos: For those who love a kick, amp up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or extra finely chopped fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers while browning the beef. You could also mix in some chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy depth.
- Vegetarian Delight: Easily transform this into a hearty plant-based meal. Replace the ground beef with seasoned black beans (smashed or whole), refried beans, or even a mix of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers. Adding grilled corn or roasted sweet potato cubes can also provide excellent texture and flavor.
- Cheese Swap Extravaganza: While the Mexican cheese blend is classic, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Use spicy pepper jack for an extra kick, mild Monterey Jack for ultimate meltiness, sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor, or a sprinkle of creamy queso fresco for a lighter, tangier bite. A combination of several cheeses can create a more complex flavor profile.
- Extra Add-Ins: Elevate your nachos with additional toppings. Consider layering in black olives for a briny touch, canned green chiles for a mild, smoky flavor, or fresh corn kernels for sweetness and crunch. Sautéed onions or pickled red onions can also add a delightful tang.
- BBQ-Style Nachos: Give your nachos a Southern twist! Swap the seasoned ground beef for leftover pulled pork or shredded chicken, tossed in your favorite smoky BBQ sauce. Top with red onion, a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce after cooking.
- Breakfast Nachos: Who says nachos are only for dinner? Create a delicious breakfast version by replacing ground beef with scrambled eggs, cooked breakfast sausage, or crispy bacon bits. Top with cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of hot sauce, and maybe a dollop of sour cream or salsa for a fun brunch treat.
- Chicken Fajita Nachos: Use sliced, seasoned chicken breast (or leftover rotisserie chicken) with sautéed bell peppers and onions as your main topping. Add a squeeze of lime juice after cooking for a fresh fajita flavor.
- Mediterranean-Inspired Nachos: For a unique twist, try topping your chips with seasoned ground lamb or chickpeas, feta cheese, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce after cooking.
More tasty nacho recipes to try: Loaded Nachos I French Fry Nachos I Loaded Sweet Potato Nachos I Carne Asada Nachos
Alternative Cooking Methods for Nachos
While the air fryer truly shines for making quick and crispy nachos, don’t worry if you don’t have one! You can still enjoy this delicious recipe using traditional methods. The key is to achieve that perfect balance of melted cheese and slightly toasted chips.
Oven Method:
If you’re using a conventional oven, you can easily adapt this recipe. Preheat your oven to a higher temperature, typically around 400-425°F (200-220°C). Arrange your tortilla chips and toppings on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Bake for approximately 8-15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are slightly golden and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary. The higher heat helps to crisp the chips quickly before they become soggy from the toppings.
Broiler Method:
For an even quicker melt, you can use your oven’s broiler. Arrange your nachos on a broiler-safe baking sheet. Place the sheet on the top rack of your oven, ensuring it’s not too close to the heating element (usually 6-8 inches away). Broil for just 2-4 minutes, watching constantly, as cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt very quickly under the broiler. This method is excellent for getting a rapid, bubbly melt on the cheese and a slight char on some edges, but it requires vigilant supervision.
No matter which method you choose, the goal is warm, flavorful toppings, and perfectly melted cheese over crispy chips. Enjoy your homemade nachos, air fryer or not!
Can I Prepare Nachos in Advance and Reheat Them?
While these air fryer nachos are undeniably at their peak when served fresh and hot, enjoying them immediately ensures the ultimate crispy chip and gooey cheese experience. However, life happens, and sometimes advance prep is necessary or you might find yourself with delicious leftovers.
Preparing in Advance:
To prepare components in advance, it’s best to cook your ground beef and chop all your vegetables (onions, bell peppers, jalapeños, tomatoes, cilantro). Store these prepared toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The cooked ground beef can last for 3-4 days, and most chopped vegetables will stay fresh for 2-3 days. When you’re ready to make your nachos, simply assemble them just before air frying. This method allows you to significantly cut down on last-minute prep time without compromising the quality of your nachos.
Reheating Leftovers:
If you have leftover assembled and cooked nachos, reheating is definitely possible! The best way to revive them and regain some crispness is, fittingly, in the air fryer. Place the leftover nachos in your air fryer basket, ensuring they are not too crowded. Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is re-melted and the chips are warmed through and have regained some of their crunch. You can even add a fresh sprinkle of cheese before reheating for extra gooeyness. Reheating in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes also works, but the air fryer offers superior crisping.
While reheated nachos are still tasty, fresh batches will always have the best texture, as chips can absorb moisture and lose some of their crispness over time, even when stored properly. For the freshest taste, assemble and cook just enough for your immediate needs.
Choosing the Best Tortilla Chips for Nachos
The foundation of any great nacho dish is the tortilla chip, and while you *can* use almost any type, selecting the right one makes a significant difference in the final outcome of your air fryer nachos.
Yes, you can use many types of tortilla chips for this recipe, but here’s what to consider for the best results:
- Thicker and Sturdier Chips are Key: This is the most crucial factor. When loaded with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and various toppings, thin or delicate chips tend to break apart easily or become soggy. Look for restaurant-style chips, thicker cut chips, or those specifically marketed as “scooping” chips. These robust chips will provide the structural integrity needed to hold up under the weight and moisture of your delicious toppings, ensuring every bite is a satisfying experience.
- Consider the Flavor Profile: While plain tortilla chips are a classic choice and allow the other ingredients to shine, don’t be afraid to experiment with different chip flavors. “Hint of Lime” tortilla chips can add a bright, zesty note that complements Mexican flavors beautifully. Blue corn tortilla chips offer a slightly nuttier taste and a visually appealing contrast. Just be mindful of heavily seasoned chips, as they might clash with your chosen toppings.
- Avoid Overly Greasy Chips: Some cheaper brands of tortilla chips can be quite greasy. When these are combined with seasoned ground beef (even after draining fat), your nachos can become excessively oily. Opt for brands that produce drier, crispier chips to maintain a good balance.
- Salt Content: Chips with a moderate salt coating are ideal. They enhance the overall flavor without making the dish too salty, especially when you’re adding other savory ingredients like cheese and seasoned meat.
In summary, while flexibility is a friend to nacho-making, prioritizing sturdy, thicker chips with a neutral or complementary flavor will give you the best air fryer nachos – ones that are crispy, flavorful, and stand up to all the delicious fixings!
Need some more snack inspiration? Check out my appetizer recipes page!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Nachos
Air fryer nachos are fantastic on their own as a snack or appetizer, but you can easily transform them into a more complete meal or part of a vibrant feast. Here are some delicious ideas for what to serve alongside your homemade nachos:
For a Hearty Meal:
- Mexican Rice: A classic pairing! Fluffy and flavorful Mexican rice provides a wonderful carbohydrate base that soaks up all the delicious nacho flavors.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a comforting and traditional side dish that complements the crunch and spice of the nachos.
- Black Bean Salad: For a lighter, fresher side, a simple black bean salad with corn, bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, and a lime vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness and texture.
For a Lighter Option:
- Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a citrus dressing can balance out the richness of the nachos beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast.
- Coleslaw: A zesty, crunchy coleslaw, perhaps with a touch of lime or cilantro, makes for a refreshing side that cuts through the savory flavors.
Refreshing Drinks:
To cool down the delicious heat of your nachos, pairing them with the right beverage is key. Nothing complements a Mexican-inspired dish quite like a refreshing margarita. Whether you prefer a classic, crisp Patrón Margarita with its smooth tequila notes, or a bold and zesty Texas Margarita, these cocktails are the perfect adult accompaniment to your cheesy, spicy creation.
For non-alcoholic options, consider a crisp sparkling water with lime, horchata, or a refreshing iced tea.
Additional Dips and Snacks:
If you’re hosting a gathering, expand your spread with more flavorful dips and snacks that go hand-in-hand with nachos:
- Guacamole: You can never have too much guacamole! Offer extra on the side. Try making your own Veggie Guacamole for a fresh and chunky version.
- Salsa Fresca: A vibrant, fresh salsa, also known as pico de gallo, adds a light and zesty kick. Our Chunky Salsa recipe is bursting with fresh flavors and is easy to whip up.
- Queso Dip: For the ultimate cheese lovers, a warm bowl of creamy queso dip for dipping extra chips or smothering over your nachos.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice makes for an incredible side.
With these pairing suggestions, your air fryer nachos can be the star of a casual snack time, a fun family dinner, or a festive party spread!
More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and crisping power of your air fryer through this nacho recipe, you’re in for a treat! The air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle a wide array of dishes, from savory snacks to delectable main courses. Here are some more of our favorite air fryer recipes that you’re sure to enjoy:
- Crispy Air Fryer Ravioli: Transform simple ravioli into a crunchy, golden, bite-sized snack or appetizer. Perfect with marinara for dipping, these are a quick and delightful alternative to traditional pasta.
- Spicy Buffalo Jalapeño Poppers: If you’re craving a little heat coupled with creamy cheese, these poppers are a must-try. The air fryer ensures a perfectly crisp exterior and a molten, spicy interior without the deep-frying mess.
- Savory Chipotle BBQ Steak Air Fryer Empanadas: Go bold with these flavor-packed empanadas. Filled with smoky, meaty chipotle BBQ steak, they make for a satisfying appetizer or a light meal, with a wonderfully crisp pastry thanks to the air fryer.
- Air Fryer Chicken Wings: Achieve restaurant-quality crispy chicken wings with minimal oil. Toss them in your favorite sauce – buffalo, BBQ, or a dry rub – for a game day staple or easy dinner.
- Air Fryer Roasted Vegetables: Get perfectly tender-crisp vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts in a fraction of the time it takes in a conventional oven. A simple seasoning is all you need for a healthy and delicious side.
These recipes demonstrate the air fryer’s incredible ability to deliver delicious, crispy results with less oil and less fuss. Expand your culinary repertoire and discover new ways to enjoy your favorite foods with this amazing appliance!
Finally, if you make this air fryer nacho recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.
Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!
Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram,Facebook, orPinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!
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Air Fryer Nachos Recipe Card
Equipment
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Utility Cutting Board
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Shun Chef’s Knife
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Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer
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Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper
- 4 cups tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 red onion diced
- 1/2 bell pepper diced
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream for serving
- Guacamole
- 1 jalapeno diced
- 1 roma tomato diced
Instructions
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add ground beef, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook, until the beef is browned, about 3 to 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
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Once cooked through, drain the excess fat thoroughly to prevent soggy nachos, and set the beef aside.
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Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C), if your air fryer model requires preheating before use.
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Line the air fryer basket or tray with parchment paper. Add half of the tortilla chips in an even, single layer.
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Top this first layer with half of the shredded cheese, followed by half of the diced red onion, half of the diced bell pepper, and half of the cooked seasoned beef.
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Repeat the layers using the remaining chips, cheese, red onion, bell pepper, and beef to create a second, fully loaded layer.
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Air fry for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the nachos are heated through and crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
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Carefully remove from the air fryer and garnish immediately with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with your preferred toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped fresh tomato, and diced jalapeño for maximum enjoyment.