Nachos Grande from TGI Friday's features a generous layering of crispy tortilla chips topped with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, jalapenos, fresh diced tomatoes, black beans, and a dollop of creamy guacamole, delivering a vibrant mix of bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Skillet
- Spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Mixing bowls
- Spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapenos
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1 cup canned black beans
- 1 cup guacamole
Ensure the ground beef is properly seasoned with taco seasoning to capture the authentic flavor profile reminiscent of TGI Friday's Nachos Grande. Use fresh tomatoes and quality shredded cheddar cheese for enhanced taste and texture. Opt for canned black beans that are low in sodium to balance the dish's hearty elements without overpowering saltiness. Your choice of jalapenos should be based on your preferred spice level, as they significantly influence the final heat. The guacamole adds a creamy contrast, so use a fresh or well-made version to replicate the original TGI Friday's copycat experience.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Heat skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef to skillet.
- Cook ground beef, breaking apart with spatula.
- Stir in taco seasoning.
- Cook until beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Remove from heat.
- Dice tomatoes on cutting board with chef’s knife.
- Rinse and drain black beans.
- Grate cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Spread tortilla chips evenly on prepared baking sheet.
- Spoon cooked beef evenly over chips.
- Sprinkle black beans over beef and chips.
- Scatter diced tomatoes on top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over entire sheet.
- Top with sliced jalapenos as desired.
- Bake in preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven.
- Add dollops of guacamole on top.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Nachos Grande from TGI Friday's copycat menu can be customized by substituting ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor. If jalapenos are too spicy or unavailable, consider using mild pickled peppers or sliced green bell peppers for crunch and color. Fresh tomatoes can be replaced with canned diced tomatoes drained well if out of season, maintaining the balance of moisture and taste. Black beans can be swapped with refried beans or pinto beans, which also complement the taco seasoning and cheese well. Your choice of guacamole can be prepared from store-bought or homemade avocado dip, allowing flexibility depending on your time and ingredient availability.
Tips
Make sure to evenly spread the tortilla chips on the baking sheet to avoid soggy spots and ensure every chip gets topped. When cooking the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles helps distribute the seasoning more thoroughly and enhances flavor consistency. Rinse and drain the black beans well to prevent excess moisture, which can make your nachos soggy. After baking, adding guacamole immediately preserves its fresh taste and creamy texture, giving your Nachos Grande the perfect finishing touch.
Nutritions
Nachos Grande from TGI Friday's is a calorie-rich dish providing substantial protein from the seasoned ground beef and black beans. The melted cheddar cheese adds significant fat and calcium content, while jalapenos contribute vitamins A and C, aiding immune support. Fresh diced tomatoes offer antioxidants and fiber, enhancing digestive health, and guacamole supplies heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from avocados. When enjoying this dish, be mindful of portion size to balance indulgence with your nutritional goals.
Storage
Nachos Grande leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Separate the guacamole and add it fresh when reheating to avoid discoloration and bitterness. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to reheat your nachos evenly in the oven at 350degF (175degC) until the cheese melts again and the chips regain their crispness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can replace ground beef with shredded rotisserie chicken for a leaner protein option that cooks faster. Swap cheddar with a blend of Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack cheese to enhance creaminess and add a subtle spicy kick. Consider roasting the jalapenos before slicing to deepen their flavor and reduce heat intensity. To make the nachos crispier, broil them for the last 1-2 minutes instead of baking, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Allergies
Nachos Grande from TGI Friday's contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and potential latex-fruit syndrome allergens in the guacamole due to avocado. The ground beef seasoned with taco seasoning might include spices that could trigger sensitivities in some individuals. You should be cautious if you have dairy allergies, latex allergies, or spice sensitivities when enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
The Nachos Grande menu from TGI Friday's is popular for its generous portions of crispy tortilla chips layered with melted cheese, seasoned ground beef, jalapenos, and fresh toppings like tomatoes and sour cream. The combination of bold, savory flavors and satisfying textures creates a crave-worthy dish perfect for sharing or indulging solo. You can recreate this crowd-pleaser at home to enjoy the same vibrant taste while customizing it to your preference. Making a copycat version is worth it because it delivers restaurant-quality nachos with fresh ingredients and cost savings.