Easy Sheet Pan Nachos (Loaded & Ready in 30 Minutes!)
Growing up, my weekends were a whirlwind of family movie nights. And no movie night was complete without my mom’s famous nachos.
Every time she made it, the aroma of melted cheese and seasoned toppings would fill our kitchen, getting everyone giddy and excited (to the point where we even let her pick the movie lots of times!).
Fast forward to today, and I still find myself chasing that nostalgic feeling.
This is why I’ve perfected my easy sheet pan nachos recipe. But of course, I had to make it on a sheet pan to make it more convenient, especially when I want to whip it up on a whim or when my kids ask for it.
Creating these nachos transports me back to those movie nights, which I now recreate with my own family. And let me tell you, this dish is an absolute hit every time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ideal for spontaneous gatherings
- Customizable toppings mean everyone can enjoy their favorite combinations
- Great for sharing during all types of gatherings
- Uses just one pan, making cleanup a breeze
- Loaded with flavor—everyone will be asking for seconds!
The Story Behind the Recipe
The first time I made this recipe was during a sleepover I hosted for my kid’s 12th birthday.
After dinner, I wanted to make her and her friends a quick and hassle-free yet delicious snack while they watched a romcom.
I fondly recalled my mom’s legendary nachos and decided to take inspiration from her. Lo and behold, my easy sheet pan nachos were born. The kids devoured them before they got halfway into the movie!
Now they are my go-to dish for game nights, movie marathons, and last-minute get-togethers.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Tortilla chips – Use your favorite store-bought brand. When I have the time, I also make homemade chips by baking corn tortillas for an extra crunch.
- Shredded cheese – Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well. You can try a blend for a deliciously gooey experience
- Black beans – Canned or freshly cooked
- Jalapeños – I love pickled ones for a hint of tang, but fresh ones can also work for added heat.
- Diced tomatoes – Fresh is great, but canned works well for convenience.
- Sour cream – For a lighter alternative, go for Greek yogurt.
- Guacamole – Store-bought or homemade
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large sheet pan, ensuring they cover most of the surface.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the chips.
- Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños.
- Bake in the oven for about 4 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with sour cream and guacamole.
Expert Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Nachos
- Add seasoned beef. This recipe doesn’t have beef because I wanted to keep everything in one pan. But you can add beef to your version; just cook ground beef with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper separately, then add it to the pan with the rest of the toppings.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile. Consider adding pepper jack for extra heat!
- Don’t overload the nachos; too much topping can lead to soggy chips. Keep it deliciously balanced.
- Heat the beans before adding them to the nachos for an even warmer bite.
- Get creative with toppings. Consider grilled chicken, pulled pork, roasted bell peppers, or even caramelized onions for extra flair.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
FAQs About Easy Sheet Pan Nachos
Can I make these nachos ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare them just before serving to keep the chips crispy and the cheese gooey.
Can I freeze leftover nachos?
Freezing nachos isn’t recommended, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days.
Are there vegan options for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use vegan cheddar cheese or cashew cheese, then omit sour cream for a plant-based alternative.
What drinks go well with nachos?
These nachos go great with refreshing drinks like iced tea, fruit-infused water, milkshakes, or soda.
Enjoy Every Bite of These Easy Sheet Pan Nachos
With crunchy chips and fresh toppings, I’m sure this easy sheet pan nachos recipe will become your family’s new favorite! Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in with Netflix or hosting a lively party, these nachos are sure to please.
Gather your friends and family, and dig in!
