Nothing beats a plate of crispy tortilla chips drenched in rich, meaty chili and smothered with velvety cheddar cheese sauce. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving a bold, savory snack, this Chili and Cheddar Nacho Sauce recipe is your go-to. Made with hearty beef chili, tender kidney beans, and a luscious cheddar sauce, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Let’s dive into the best homemade nacho recipe that will impress your guests and leave them asking for more!
Why You’ll Love This Chili and Cheddar Nacho Sauce
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or weekend indulgence.
- Rich and Flavorful: A combination of smoky, spicy chili and creamy cheddar sauce for an irresistible bite.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to fit your taste.
Ingredients for Chili and Cheddar Nacho Sauce
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cheddar Nacho Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
For Serving:
- 1 large bag of tortilla chips
- Fresh jalapeño slices (optional)
- Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Chili
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Drain excess fat, then stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir well.
- Add kidney beans and let the chili simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheddar Nacho Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until slightly golden.
- Slowly add milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Ultimate Nachos
- Arrange tortilla chips on a large serving plate or baking sheet.
- Spoon the chili generously over the chips.
- Drizzle warm cheddar sauce on top.
- Garnish with fresh jalapeño slices, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Nachos
- Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Layer for Maximum Flavor: Instead of piling everything on top, layer chips, chili, and cheese sauce to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Keep It Crispy: Serve immediately to prevent soggy nachos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make the Chili in Advance?
Yes! The chili can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove before assembling your nachos.
What Can I Use Instead of Beef?
Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work as great substitutes.
How Do I Store Leftover Nachos?
Nachos are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the chili and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat and serve over fresh chips.
Final Thoughts
This Chili and Cheddar Nacho Sauce recipe is a crowd-pleaser that delivers bold flavors and creamy textures in every bite. Whether for game night, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, these nachos will be the star of the table.
Try this recipe today and impress your guests with the ultimate nacho experience!
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