Giant Nacho

Cook: 20 min Cuisine: Mexican

A hearty and cheesy giant nacho layered with refried beans, seasoned beef, salsa, olives, green onions, and melted cheese, perfect for sharing at parties or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 16 oz. can refried beans
  • 1 lb. hamburger, cooked with taco seasoning
  • 8 oz. mild picante sauce
  • black olives, chopped
  • green onions, chopped
  • 3 cups grated Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. Layer refried beans, cooked hamburger with taco seasoning, mild picante sauce, black olives, green onions, and grated Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
  2. Bake for 20 minutes at 400°F.
  3. Top with guacamole or sour cream.
  4. Serve with plain Doritos chips or tostado chips.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider using black beans or pinto beans instead of refried beans. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. To enhance the spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the layers. If you're short on time, pre-cooked taco meat can speed up the process. This dish is versatile, so feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Giant Nacho with a side of fresh guacamole or sour cream for an extra creamy touch. Pair it with a crisp salad, such as Taco Salad Deluxe, for a refreshing contrast. This dish works well as a crowd-pleaser at parties or game days, alongside chips or a variety of salsas for dipping.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the nacho in a covered oven-safe dish and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be careful not to overcook.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Giant Nacho contains roughly 507 calories, with 24g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 733mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).

507 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 24.3g 49% DV
Total Fat 24.3g 31% DV
Carbs 49.6g 18% DV
Fiber 5.6g 20% DV
Sugar 2.7g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 732.8mg 32% DV
Potassium 671.9mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 58.1mg 19% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 58.1mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 21.9mg 24% DV
Calcium 274.4mg 21% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk

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 make this nacho dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply layer everything in the pan and bake as instructed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

What can I substitute for the cheese?

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cheese alternative. Alternatively, you can use a blend of nutritional yeast, cashews, and spices to create a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just ensure the alternative melts well for the best texture.

Can I freeze the Giant Nacho?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled nacho before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This makes for an easy meal prep option!

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).

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