Print

Flavorful Trash Can Nachos Recipe

trash can nachos - featured image

A quick and easy nacho recipe perfect for feeding a crowd with layers of seasoned beef, beans, melty cheese, and fresh toppings served in a large skillet or deep pan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large bag (about 12 oz) sturdy tortilla chips
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup fresh salsa or pico de gallo
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • Optional extras: 1 avocado, diced; hot sauce or salsa verde for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant and well combined. Set aside.
  3. Layer the nachos: In a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish, spread half the tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the black beans over the chips, then scatter half of the cooked beef on top. Add half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Repeat with remaining chips, beans, beef, and cheese to build a tall pile.
  4. Bake the nachos: Place the skillet or dish in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly but not browned.
  5. Add fresh toppings and serve: Remove from oven and immediately top with fresh salsa, sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced olives, jalapeños, green onions, and cilantro. Serve warm.

Notes

Use thick, sturdy tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Prepare seasoned beef a day ahead to save time. Add fresh toppings after baking to keep chips crisp. Reheat leftovers gently in the oven to maintain texture. For vegetarian version, substitute beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground meat.

Nutrition

Keywords: nachos, trash can nachos, crowd-pleaser, easy nachos, cheesy nachos, party food, game day snacks