Dinner

Air Fryer Nachos Recipe

ByMaya Quinn October 27, 2025October 27, 2025

Introduction

Air fryer nachos are a quick and delicious way to enjoy this classic snack with perfectly melted cheese and savory toppings. This recipe combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and plenty of cheese for a crowd-pleasing treat ready in minutes.

A black air fryer basket filled with a layered dish starting from the bottom with a bed of yellow corn tortilla chips that have a rough texture and some black specks. The second layer shows cooked ground meat browned and spread evenly over the chips. On top of the meat is a layer of melted mixed cheese in orange and white colors, partially covering the meat and chips. The upper layer has finely chopped fresh red tomatoes, purple onions, and green cilantro scattered over the cheese. In the center, there is a dollop of white sour cream garnished with chopped cilantro. The basket sits on a white marbled surface with two white bowls filled with the same chopped tomato, onion, and cilantro mix nearby. A corner of a gray cloth napkin is visible at the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 bag (10-12 ounces) tortilla chips (thick-cut recommended)
1 pound ground beef
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
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

Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and water, stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes until thickened. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or heat gently in a saucepan. Set aside.
Step 3: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with perforated parchment paper. Spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly in the basket.
Step 4: Top the chips with warmed refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeño slices, and chopped red onion.
Step 5: Place the basket into the air fryer and set the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and chips are warmed.
Step 6: Carefully transfer the nachos to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional jalapeño slices if desired. Serve immediately with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.

Tips & Variations

Use thick-cut tortilla chips to prevent sogginess during air frying.
For extra protein, add black beans or cooked chorizo along with the ground beef.
Feel free to add diced tomatoes or olives for additional texture and flavor.
Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your preferred spice level.

Storage

Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to crisp up the chips and melt the cheese again. Avoid microwaving to keep the chips from becoming soggy.