Loaded Nachos

Ingredients

• 10 oztortilla chips$1.08
• 1 lbground beef$3.33
• 1 canrefried beans$0.89
• 1.5 cupcheddar cheese, shredded$3.02
• 0.25 cupjalapeños, sliced$0.18
• 0.5 cupsour cream$0.53
• 1 cupsalsa$1.22
• 2 tbsptaco seasoning$0.07
• 1 cupguacamole$2.14
• 0.25 cupfresh cilantro$0.32
• Total for 4 servings$12.78

Most of the cost is ground beef ($3.33) and cheddar cheese, shredded ($3.02). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $11.63. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking the meat into crumbles, until no pink remains and it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), then drain off the excess fat.
3. Reduce the skillet heat to low, stir in the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water, and simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the liquid reduces and coats the meat.
4. Arrange the tortilla chips across the prepared baking sheet in an even layer. Drop small spoonfuls of the refried beans evenly over the chips, then scatter the seasoned beef on top.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the meat and chips, then bake at 400°F (200°C) for 7 to 9 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling at the edges.
6. Take the baking sheet out of the oven and dollop the salsa, sour cream and guacamole over the top. Finish with the sliced jalapeños and the cilantro.
7. Serve immediately straight from the baking sheet while the chips and cheese are hot.