Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos

Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos are the perfect combo of crispy chips, melted cheese, juicy seasoned meat, fresh salsa, and all your favorite toppings spread out on one big pan. They’re…

By Willow • February 1, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

Save Recipe Print Recipe

Tip: save now, cook later.

Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos are the perfect combo of crispy chips, melted cheese, juicy seasoned meat, fresh salsa, and all your favorite toppings spread out on one big pan. They’re colorful, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy, making them a great snack or meal when you want something fun and filling.

I love making these nachos because they come together so easily and quickly. I usually toss everything on the pan, pop it in the oven, and before I know it, my kitchen smells amazing and my family starts gathering around. A little tip from me: don’t overload the chips too much—giving them space helps keep some of that crunchy texture even after everything melts together.

My favorite way to enjoy loaded sheet pan nachos is to top them with fresh avocado slices and a big dollop of sour cream right before serving. It adds a cool, creamy contrast that I find just perfect. They’re great for parties or a casual night at home, and they always bring a smile to everyone’s face when the pan comes out of the oven.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy, thick chips to hold all the toppings without getting soggy too fast. If you want a lighter option, baked chips work well. You can also use flavored chips for extra zest.

Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich, meaty flavor. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken are great leaner swaps. For a vegetarian version, try cooked lentils or crumbled tofu seasoned like taco meat.

Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch, and Monterey Jack melts smoothly. If you want something different, Pepper Jack adds a slight kick. Vegan cheese also works if you want a dairy-free option.

Fresh Toppings: Jalapeños, tomatoes, and lettuce add crunch and freshness. Feel free to swap lettuce for cabbage or add avocado slices for creaminess. Adjust jalapeños or omit them if you’re sensitive to heat.

How Do I Keep Chips Crispy When Baking Loaded Nachos?

Keeping chips crispy can be tricky since the wet toppings and melted cheese can make them soggy quickly. Here’s what helps me:

• Spread chips out evenly and don’t pile them too thick; enough space helps air circulate.
• Add wet toppings like salsa or sour cream after baking to avoid sogginess.
• Use sturdy chips made for dipping—they hold up better under cheese and toppings.
• Bake just until cheese melts, about 8-10 minutes, avoiding overcooking.

Following these tips will give you crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful nachos every time!

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large rimmed sheet pan – perfect for spreading out the chips so they crisp evenly.
• Nonstick skillet – great for cooking and browning the ground beef without sticking.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – helps break up the meat and stir the taco seasoning in the skillet.
• Cheese grater – if you buy block cheese, it makes shredding faster and melt better.
• Knife and cutting board – for slicing jalapeños, dicing tomatoes, and chopping onions neatly.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap ground beef for shredded chicken or pulled pork for a different flavor and leaner protein.
• Use pepper jack cheese for a bit of spice mixed with the cheddar’s sharpness.
• Add roasted corn or sautéed bell peppers for some sweet crunch and color.
• Top with black olives or sliced green onions to add an extra burst of flavor and texture.

How to Make Loaded Sheet Pan Nachos?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 large bag tortilla chips (about 10-12 oz)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional for meltiness)

Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 1-2 jalapeños, sliced into rings (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Optional: chopped cilantro, guacamole, salsa

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of preparation and cooking time. You’ll spend about 8-10 minutes baking the nachos in the oven to melt the cheese perfectly. It’s a quick and easy way to make a tasty snack or light meal that everyone will enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and about 1/4 cup water, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens.

2. Assemble the Nachos:

Spread the tortilla chips evenly across a large sheet pan. Sprinkle the cooked beef over the chips, then add the black beans evenly on top. Generously cover everything with the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

3. Bake and Add Fresh Toppings:

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts and gets bubbly. Remove from the oven and scatter diced tomatoes, red onions, shredded lettuce, and jalapeño slices evenly on top. Add dollops of sour cream, and if you like, garnish with chopped cilantro, guacamole, and salsa.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Serve the nachos right away while they’re warm and delicious. This recipe is perfect for sharing with friends or family as a fun and satisfying snack or light meal.

Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the ground beef before cooking. The best way is to thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes if you prefer. Just cook them the same way with taco seasoning for tasty nachos.

How Do I Store Leftover Nachos?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to keep the cheese melty and the chips crispy.

Can I Prep Nachos in Advance?

You can cook the beef and chop your toppings ahead of time to make assembling faster. For best results, assemble and bake the nachos just before serving to keep chips crisp.