Billy Barou Nachos from Moe's feature seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar jack cheese, jalapenos, and fresh pico de gallo piled high on crispy tortilla chips, offering a flavorful and satisfying Tex-Mex experience.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Oven or toaster oven
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Spoon
- Serving plate or platter
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese
- 1 bag (12 oz) tortilla chips
- 1/2 cup sliced pickled jalapenos
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1/2 small red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 medium lime
- 1 jalapeno pepper (fresh)
- Salt
- Pepper
Using a pre-packaged taco seasoning packet ensures consistent flavor and saves preparation time when cooking the 1 lb ground beef. Fresh pico de gallo made from diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice enhances the dish with vibrant, zesty notes that contrast well with the savory beef and melted cheddar jack cheese. Sliced pickled jalapenos add a tangy heat that complements the fresh jalapeno pepper's sharper spice, so adjust quantities according to your preferred spice level. Opt for sturdy, crispy tortilla chips to hold the generous toppings without becoming soggy, ensuring a satisfying crunch in every bite. Your Billy Barou Nachos from Moe's copycat menu will deliver an authentic Tex-Mex experience packed with bold flavors and textures.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef to skillet and cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat from beef.
- Add taco seasoning and water as per packet instructions.
- Stir and simmer until thickened.
- Dice tomatoes, red onion, and fresh jalapeno.
- Chop cilantro.
- In mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, fresh jalapeno, and cilantro.
- Squeeze lime juice into the bowl.
- Add salt and pepper to taste; mix well (pico de gallo).
- Spread tortilla chips on baking sheet.
- Evenly distribute seasoned beef over chips.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Add sliced pickled jalapenos over cheese.
- Bake in oven for about 5 minutes, until cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven.
- Spoon fresh pico de gallo across nachos.
- Transfer nachos to serving plate or platter.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Billy Barou Nachos from Moe's copycat recipe features seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar jack cheese, jalapenos, and fresh pico de gallo on crispy tortilla chips, delivering a classic Tex-Mex flavor. If you cannot find cheddar jack cheese, a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack can be used to maintain the creamy, melty texture. Fresh pico de gallo can be substituted with store-bought salsa if you're short on time, but ensure it contains diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime for authentic flavor. For a spicier kick, add extra fresh jalapenos or swap pickled jalapenos for fresh ones to control heat levels. When cooking your ground beef, a skillet with a non-stick surface helps prevent sticking and allows even browning for the best texture.
Tips
Ensure you drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef to prevent soggy nachos. Spread the tortilla chips evenly on the baking sheet to allow uniform melting of the cheddar jack cheese. When preparing your pico de gallo, use fresh lime juice and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. You should serve the nachos immediately after baking to enjoy the perfect combination of melted cheese and fresh toppings.
Nutritions
Billy Barou Nachos provide a rich source of protein from 1 lb of seasoned ground beef combined with calcium and vitamin A from 1 cup of shredded cheddar jack cheese. The fresh pico de gallo, made from 2 medium tomatoes, 1/2 small red onion, fresh jalapeno, and cilantro, contributes vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber essential for digestion and immune support. Tortilla chips add carbohydrates for energy, while the addition of lime juice enhances flavor and provides a small boost of vitamin C. Your meal balances protein, fats, and micronutrients, making it both flavorful and nutritionally satisfying.
Storage
Store any leftover Billy Barou Nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Separate the pico de gallo from the nachos to prevent the chips from becoming soggy. Reheat the beef and cheese mixture on a baking sheet in a 350degF (175degC) oven for 5-7 minutes, then add fresh pico de gallo before serving to preserve your nachos' texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground turkey or shredded chicken for the seasoned ground beef to create a leaner protein option. Swap cheddar jack cheese with a blend of Monterey Jack and mozzarella for a creamier texture and milder flavor. Try adding black beans or corn kernels to the beef mixture for extra fiber and a boost of color. For a smoky twist, grill the jalapenos before dicing them into the pico de gallo, enhancing the overall taste profile of your nachos.
Allergies
Billy Barou Nachos from Moe's contain common allergens such as dairy from the cheddar jack cheese and potential sulfites in the pickled jalapenos. Ground beef is generally allergen-free, but taco seasoning may include spices or preservatives that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If you have food allergies, examine ingredient labels carefully and inform the restaurant about your dietary restrictions to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Billy Barou Nachos at Moe's Southwest Grill stand out for their bold combination of house-made queso, jalapenos, and fresh pico de gallo atop crispy tortilla chips, delivering a satisfying mix of creamy, spicy, and crunchy textures. Fans appreciate the nachos' generous portions and customizable toppings, allowing for a personalized flavor experience every time. Recreating this dish at home lets you control ingredient quality and spice levels, making it a fun and rewarding culinary project. Your copycat version can capture the essence of Moe's signature taste while catering to your unique preferences.