Print

Air Fryer Nachos Recipe

4.8 from 90 reviews

These Air Fryer Nachos are a quick and delicious twist on a classic snack, featuring crispy tortilla chips layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and zesty pickled jalapeños. Ready in just minutes, this recipe is perfect for game day, parties, or a flavorful appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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

  1. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef by breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked through, drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Refried Beans: Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes until warmed through, or alternatively heat on the stovetop over low heat. Set aside once warm.
  3. Assemble the Nachos: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper with holes to prevent sticking. Spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly across the basket. Top the chips with spoonfuls of refried beans and seasoned ground beef. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top, then add the pickled jalapeño slices and chopped red onion.
  4. Air Fry the Nachos: Carefully place the basket into the air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and air fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chips are warmed through.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the nachos to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and additional pickled jalapeños if desired. Serve immediately with optional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.

Notes

  • Use thick-cut tortilla chips to prevent sogginess and maintain crunch.
  • You can customize toppings according to preference like adding black beans or olives.
  • Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper that has holes for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
  • Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model to ensure cheese is melted without burning chips.
  • For a vegetarian variation, omit the ground beef and add extra beans or plant-based meat substitutes.

Keywords: air fryer nachos, quick nachos, cheese nachos, easy appetizer, Mexican snacks