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Lighter Nachos Recipe

4.6 from 119 reviews

This recipe for Lighter Nachos offers a simple and healthier twist on traditional nachos by using fewer ingredients and baking them briefly to melt the cheese and warm the beans. Perfect for a quick snack or casual appetizer, these nachos combine crunchy tortilla chips with melted cheese, protein-rich beans, and fresh salsa for a balanced and flavorful bite.

Ingredients

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups tortilla chips
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar or a Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup canned beans, rinsed and drained (black beans or pinto beans)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild or medium, based on preference)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish, creating a single layer to ensure even coverage.
  2. Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the rinsed and drained beans evenly over the tortilla chips. Then, evenly distribute the shredded cheese over the beans and chips to ensure every bite has cheesy goodness.
  3. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has just melted and started to bubble slightly. Keep an eye on the nachos to avoid burning.
  4. Serve with Salsa: Remove the baked nachos from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Spoon the salsa over the top or serve it on the side for dipping according to your taste.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding sliced jalapeños or chopped green onions before baking.
  • Use reduced-fat cheese or fewer chips if you want to further lighten the calorie content.
  • Black beans provide more protein and fiber, making the nachos more filling.
  • Keep an eye on the baking time since cheese melts quickly and you want to avoid crisping the chips too much.

Keywords: Lighter Nachos, Healthy Nachos, Baked Nachos, Easy Snack, Mexican Snack