Loaded Nachos from Buffalo Wild Wings feature crispy tortilla chips piled high with melted cheddar and jack cheese, seasoned ground beef, jalapenos, fresh tomatoes, and a dollop of cool sour cream, offering a flavorful combination of spicy, cheesy, and crunchy bites.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cheese grater
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon
- Serving platter or plate
Ingredients
- Tortilla chips
- Cheddar cheese
- Jack cheese
- Ground beef
- Taco seasoning
- Jalapenos
- Tomatoes
- Sour cream
Tortilla chips should be sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy quickly. Using a blend of cheddar and jack cheese provides a perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess essential to the dish. Ground beef seasoned with taco seasoning adds a rich, spicy flavor that complements the jalapenos' heat and the fresh tomatoes' brightness. Fresh jalapenos add authentic heat, so adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance. Your homemade Loaded Nachos from Buffalo Wild Wings copycat menu will deliver an irresistible mix of crunchy, cheesy, and spicy flavors just like the original.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Grate cheddar and jack cheese.
- Dice tomatoes and slice jalapenos.
- Heat skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef to skillet; cook until browned.
- Stir in taco seasoning with cooked beef; mix well.
- Arrange tortilla chips on prepared baking sheet.
- Evenly sprinkle cooked ground beef over chips.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar and jack cheese over beef and chips.
- Add sliced jalapenos on top.
- Bake in oven for 7-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove nachos from oven.
- Top with fresh diced tomatoes.
- Add a dollop of sour cream in the center.
- Transfer loaded nachos to serving platter or plate.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Loaded Nachos from Buffalo Wild Wings copycat menu replicate the signature layers of crispy tortilla chips, melted cheddar and jack cheese, seasoned ground beef, jalapenos, and fresh tomatoes topped with a dollop of sour cream. Your ground beef can be swapped with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian option without sacrificing flavor. When shredd the cheddar and jack cheese, pre-grated cheese can be used to save time but freshly grated cheese melts better for that gooey texture. Jalapenos can be replaced with pickled banana peppers or sliced green chilies if you prefer a milder heat level. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent chips from sticking and promote even melting during baking.
Tips
Ensure the ground beef is fully browned before adding taco seasoning to maximize flavor and avoid a raw taste. Spread the tortilla chips in a single, even layer on the baking sheet to prevent sogginess and promote crispiness. Keep an eye on the nachos while baking to avoid burning the cheese; the optimal melt time is 7 to 10 minutes at 400degF (200degC). When serving, add the sour cream only after baking to keep its cool, creamy texture intact and enhance the spicy, cheesy flavors of your loaded nachos.
Nutritions
Loaded Nachos from Buffalo Wild Wings provide a mix of macronutrients including protein from ground beef and cheese, healthy fats, and carbohydrates mainly from the tortilla chips. The cheddar and jack cheeses contribute calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while the jalapenos add a boost of vitamin C and capsaicin, which may aid metabolism. Fresh tomatoes supply antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin A to promote immune function and skin health. Your meal also contains a moderate amount of sodium and saturated fats, so balance it with fresh veggies or a light side salad for a more nutritious experience.
Storage
To keep your Loaded Nachos fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to prevent sogginess and bacterial growth. Separate the sour cream and fresh tomatoes before storing to maintain their texture and freshness. Reheat the nachos in an oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to restore crispiness without melting additional cheese.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans to cater to different dietary preferences while maintaining protein richness. Using pepper jack cheese instead of jack adds a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the jalapenos. For an extra layer of texture, try crisping the tortilla chips briefly in the oven before assembling, ensuring they stay crunchy under the melted cheese. Consider topping with guacamole or sliced green onions as a fresh alternative to sour cream.
Allergies
Loaded Nachos from Buffalo Wild Wings contain common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese, jack cheese, and sour cream, as well as potential gluten in the taco seasoning or tortilla chips if they are not certified gluten-free. Ground beef and jalapenos may also trigger sensitivities in some individuals, particularly those prone to spicy food reactions. You should check ingredient specifics with the restaurant to ensure safety if you have food allergies, especially to dairy, gluten, or spices.
Why this recipe?
Loaded Nachos from Buffalo Wild Wings are loved for their generous toppings of seasoned beef, melted cheese, jalapenos, and fresh pico de gallo on a crispy tortilla base. The combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures creates a crave-worthy appetizer that complements the restaurant's famous wings. You can recreate this iconic dish at home, ensuring the same quality ingredients and seasoning tailored to your taste, making it a fun and delicious cooking challenge. Trying the copycat recipe also offers a cost-effective way to enjoy this crowd-pleaser without needing to visit the restaurant.