Stacked Nachos from Del Taco feature layers of crunchy tortilla chips topped with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, fresh jalapenos, diced tomatoes, and creamy sour cream, creating a flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired snack.
Equipments
- Sheet pan or oven-safe platter
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Cheese grater
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon (for sour cream)
- Oven or broiler
- Serving spoon
Ingredients
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 fresh jalapenos
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
Choosing fresh jalapenos and ripe tomatoes significantly enhances the flavor and texture of your nachos, making the dish more vibrant and authentic. Ground beef should be cooked thoroughly with the taco seasoning to ensure it is well-flavored and safe to eat. Use a good quality shredded cheddar cheese that melts smoothly for a creamy, rich topping. Sour cream should be kept chilled until serving to maintain its cool and tangy contrast to the warm toppings. Your copycat Stacked Nachos from Del Taco will capture that perfect balance of crunchy, spicy, and creamy elements when you select and prepare these key ingredients carefully.
Instructions
- Preheat oven or broiler.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Slice fresh jalapenos.
- Dice tomatoes.
- Heat skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Add ground beef to the skillet.
- Cook and crumble ground beef with spatula until browned.
- Add taco seasoning to cooked beef and stir well.
- Simmer seasoned beef according to packet instructions.
- Spread tortilla chips evenly on sheet pan or oven-safe platter.
- Spoon seasoned ground beef over chips.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over beef and chips.
- Place pan in oven or under broiler until cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven.
- Top with sliced jalapenos and diced tomatoes.
- Dollop sour cream over nachos using a spoon.
- Serve immediately with serving spoon.
Substitution
Stacked Nachos from Del Taco copycat menu offers a delicious way to enjoy layered tortilla chips topped with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, fresh jalapenos, diced tomatoes, and creamy sour cream. If fresh jalapenos are unavailable or too spicy for your taste, you can substitute them with pickled jalapenos or mild banana peppers. Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles are excellent alternatives for the seasoned beef, maintaining texture and flavor while providing dietary flexibility. Use pre-shredded cheese to save time, but freshly grated cheddar melts better and enhances the dish's creaminess. Your oven's broiler can be used to quickly melt cheese, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Tips
Ensure your oven or broiler is fully preheated before placing the nachos inside to achieve perfectly melted cheese. Brown the ground beef thoroughly and crumble it finely to distribute seasoning evenly and enhance flavor. Spread the tortilla chips in a single, even layer on the sheet pan to prevent sogginess and allow toppings to heat uniformly. You'll want to serve the nachos immediately after adding fresh jalapenos, tomatoes, and sour cream to maintain crispness and freshness.
Nutritions
Stacked Nachos from Del Taco provide a rich source of protein from the seasoned ground beef, supporting muscle repair and growth. The shredded cheddar cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health, while the jalapenos offer capsaicin, which may boost metabolism. Fresh tomatoes add vitamin C and antioxidants, enhancing immune function and skin health. Your snack also includes a creamy touch of sour cream that adds healthy fats and helps balance the bold flavors.
Storage
To store leftover Stacked Nachos from Del Taco, transfer the nachos to an airtight container to maintain freshness. Refrigerate within two hours of preparation; the seasoned beef and sour cream should be consumed within 3 to 4 days for optimal safety. Reheat in the oven at 350degF (175degC) until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through, maintaining the best texture for your nachos.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans to create a lighter or vegetarian option while maintaining hearty texture. Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin to intensify the taco seasoning's flavor profile. Instead of broiling cheese, melt it slowly in a covered skillet on low heat for gooier, evenly melted cheese layers. For extra creaminess, mix sour cream with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro before dolloping over the nachos.
Allergies
Stacked Nachos from Del Taco contain common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and sour cream, and potential cross-contamination with wheat in the taco seasoning. Ground beef may trigger sensitivities for those with meat allergies or intolerances. You should exercise caution if you have allergies to dairy, spicy peppers like jalapenos, or processed seasoning mixes.
Why this recipe?
The Stacked Nachos menu from Del Taco offers a delicious combination of seasoned beef, crispy tortilla chips, warm nacho cheese, and fresh pico de gallo, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Your taste buds will appreciate the generous portion sizes and customizable toppings that cater to varied preferences. Making a copycat version at home allows you to control ingredient quality and spice levels, resulting in a personalized and satisfying snack. This iconic dish is a fulfilling treat that delivers the authentic Del Taco experience anytime you crave it.