Fajita Nachos
Fajita nachos combine spicy grilled steak, seasoned beans, and melted cheese over crispy chips, topped with fresh guacamole for a flavorful Mexican-inspired snack or meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large, heavy plastic bag, mix lime juice, oil, beer, garlic, coriander, cumin, and minced jalapeno chili.
- Remove 3 tablespoons of marinade and set aside.
- Place the steak in the bag and seal it.
- Rotate the bag to coat the steak evenly, then set it in a large pan.
- Chill for at least 2 hours or up until the next day, turning occasionally.
- Preheat a grill to high heat so that you can hold your hand 2 to 3 seconds above the grill level.
- Grill the steak 4 to 6 inches above hot coals until brown and cooked to your liking, about 3 to 5 minutes per side for rare.
- Remove the steak from the grill and thinly slice it crosswise, then cut each slice in half again.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapeno or using a hotter variety. If skirt or flank steak isn't available, chicken breast or shrimp can be substituted for a different protein option. Make sure to marinate the meat long enough to enhance flavor, and for a vegetarian alternative, use seasoned black beans as the protein source. This dish pairs beautifully with Cha-Cha Chile For Fine.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your fajita nachos hot, topped with guacamole, sour cream, and fresh cilantro. They make a great appetizer or main dish and are perfect for game day gatherings. Consider serving with a side of Aztec Bean Dip for a delicious complement. Pair with a refreshing drink like a lime margarita for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover nachos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chips soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fajita Nachos contains roughly 535 calories, with 24g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to marinate the steak for at least 2 hours before grilling to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully.
What should I do if I don't have a grill?
If you don't have access to a grill, you can cook the steak in a hot skillet or grill pan on the stove. Just ensure the pan is well-heated to achieve a nice sear and smoky flavor similar to grilling.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make fajita nachos vegetarian, substitute the beef with grilled vegetables like bell peppers and onions, or use seasoned black beans as the main protein. This ensures a hearty and satisfying dish without the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).