Cheesy Loaded Beef Nachos (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Spice Mix

01 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
02 - 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
03 - 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
04 - 1 teaspoon granulated onion
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
08 - Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Nachos

09 - 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
10 - 450 grams ground beef (80:20 lean-to-fat ratio)
11 - 450 grams refried beans, canned or homemade
12 - 60 millilitres water
13 - 1 large bag tortilla chips
14 - 115 grams cheddar cheese, grated, plus extra for garnish
15 - 115 grams Colby Jack cheese, grated, plus extra for garnish
16 - 240 millilitres pico de gallo, store-bought or homemade, plus extra for garnish
17 - 0.25 cup chopped cilantro
18 - 1 jalapeño, pickled or fresh, sliced

# Instructions:

01 - Combine chili powder, kosher salt, granulated garlic, granulated onion, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until evenly browned and fully cooked through.
03 - Sprinkle prepared spice mix over browned beef, stirring well to ensure even distribution of spices.
04 - Stir in refried beans and water. Reduce heat to medium and cook until mixture is hot, smooth, and cohesive, about 2–3 minutes.
05 - Arrange tortilla chips in an even layer on a large oven-safe platter or sheet pan. Evenly distribute the beef and bean mixture over the chips.
06 - Sprinkle grated cheddar and Colby Jack cheeses evenly over the assembled chips and beef mixture. Add extra cheese if desired for a richer finish.
07 - Preheat oven grill (broiler) to high. Place tray of nachos under the grill for 1–2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Watch closely to avoid burning.
08 - Top nachos with pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeño. Add additional cheese or pico de gallo if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, layer chips and toppings closely to ensure each bite is evenly loaded. Keep garnishes such as pico de gallo and jalapeño fresh to add brightness.