Chili Cheese Nachos

More About This Recipe

• This is the third of four posts in our Easy Mexican Recipes Series this week. If you missed the others, see Chicken Tacos and the Mexican Casserole recipe makeover!
  
  When my family makes nachos at home, this is our go-to recipe: Chili Cheese Nachos. They are loaded with toppings we love, and everyone (yes, including my young kids) eats them up fast. Whether it's family movie night, game day or whatever, these are delicious and easy.
  
  For my fabulous Chili Cheese Nachos, you start with good, crispy tortilla chips. They need to be sturdy enough to stand up to the toppings, but not too-too thick. Also, you have to like the chips you choose -- flavor matters.
  
  After that, I layer chili, jalapenos, black olives, tomatoes and cheddar on top. Bake them for a bit (yes, bake -- it keeps the chips mostly crisp). Then, finish off with a sprinkle of diced avocado. Yes, you could use guacamole instead, but we like the diced avocado on this one.
  
  To serve, put out a bowl of salsa and sour cream -- in case anyone wants some. All in all, you can have this fabulous appetizer made and on the table in 20 minutes.
  
  Looking for more nacho ideas? Here are a few others we love (just use the cooking directions from the Chili Cheese Nachos):
  
  Black Bean Nachos: black black beans, jalapenos, diced red pepper, diced tomato, jack cheese
  Easy Chicken Nachos: shredded chicken, salsa (spread it on the chips), black olives, extra sharp cheddar
  Super Loaded Nachos: refried beans, diced onions, extra jalapenos, black olives, chili, lots of cheddar and jack
  
  What do you like on your nachos?
  
  Sarah W. Caron (aka scaron) is a food writer, editor and blogger who writes about family-friendly foods and raising a healthy family at Sarah's Cucina Bella.