These Loaded Nachos with Chili are layered with hearty chili, tortilla chips, and melty cheese, then topped with fresh veggies for the ultimate shareable snack. They're quick to put together and don't even need to go in the oven. Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
This recipe was inspired by the pub-style nachos we used to enjoy when I lived in Northern New York. I've taken that classic bar favorite and made it my own with a homemade chili from any one of my chili recipes on the blog. Pair it with a movie night or lay everything out for a build-your-own nacho bar on game day, just like I do for Super Bowl Sunday alongside my Barbecue Chicken Nachos.
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Why You'll Love Loaded Nachos
Fast and Easy: Ready in minutes, with no baking required.
Customizable: you can load these up with whatever toppings and chili you love.
Perfect for parties or date nights: Scale the batch up or down for your crowd.
Key Ingredients:
Chili: Use any chili recipe from my website! Whether it's a classic beef chili, or a my big batch Venison Chili recipe, the heartiness makes this dish satisfying and flavorful.
Tortilla Chips: Choose thick, sturdy chips so they hold up to all the toppings.
Cheese Sauce: I use the easy route with processed cheese melted with half and half, but a homemade sauce or shredded cheese blend works just as well.
Fresh Toppings: Diced tomatoes, chopped onion, avocado, cilantro - these add freshness and color to balance the richness.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use homemade Taco Meat instead of chili for a taco-style nacho plate.
- Refried beans mixed with salsa in place of chili for a vegetarian option.
- Homemade cheese sauce instead of processed cheese for a more wholesome version.
Variations
- Shredded cheese blend: Try Monterey Jack and Cheddar and melt allow it to melt over the hot chili on it's own.
- Mini pepper nachos: swap out the tortilla chips for halved mini sweet peppers.
- Add pickled jalapeños or black olives for a little extra zing.
Top Tips
- Always go with sturdy tortilla chips. Thin chips can get soggy and fall apart.
- Use warm chili so everything heats evenly without drying out.
- Don't skimp on toppings. Loaded is in the name for a reason.
- Serve immediately or let guests build their own from a topping station.
How to Store
Loaded Nachos are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store the chili and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat chili and rebuild fresh when ready to serve again.
More Nacho Recipes
When you make this recipe, please comment below and let me know what you think. I'd love it if you tag me on Instagram @grumpyshoneybunch or #grumpyshoneybunch so I can see your photos!
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📖 Recipe
Loaded Nachos
Equipment
- Microwave-safe glass measuring cup
- Sheet pan
- Microwave , or oven
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Ingredients
- 1 cup Venison Chili
- 4 ounces Tortilla Chips
- 1 cup cubed process cheese
- 2 tablespoons half and half
- 1 avocado diced
- 1 large tomato diced
- ½ cup cilantro chopped
- 1 mediume jalapeno chopped
- 2 scallions sliced
- 4 tablespoons homemade canning salsa
Instructions
- On a large sheet pan or serving platter, arrange ½ of the tortilla chips for the bottom layer.
- In a large glass measuring cup, melt the processed cheese and half and half in the microwave for 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute.
- Top the tortilla chips with ½ cup of the venison chili.
- Drizzle the melted cheese over top of the venison chili layer.
- Top with avocado, tomato, jalapeno, scallions, cilantro, salsa, and sour cream.
Loretta says
Can't wait to make this, your recipe looks fabulous
Shelby Law Ruttan says
Hi Loretta, thank you!