What Goes With Nachos? A Definitive Guide to the Perfect Nacho Plate

Nachos are a classic party food that everyone loves. But what do you put on them?

Here are what goes with nachos

Toppings include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, onions, beans, peppers, etc.
Side dishes such as fajitas, enchiladas, baked beans, pinto beans, etc.
And many more.

There are so many options! In this blog post, we will discuss the perfect plate. We will talk about different toppings and sauces that you can use to make them delicious and unique.

Table of Contents

What You Need to Know about Nachos

What are nachos?

They are made of corn tortilla chips, melted cheese, and toppings. They can be served as an appetizer or main course.

The toppings used for the recipe can vary from place to place but most commonly include sour cream, guacamole, salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, onions, beans, peppers, etc.

History of Nachos

The history dates back to the 16th century, when they were first introduced to Mexico by Spanish settlers. It was not until the 1950s that nacho bars began popping up all over America.

In the 1960s, they became popular at college parties where students would eat them while watching football games on television.

What is the difference between nachos and chips?

There is no real difference between nachos (corn tortilla chips) and chips (potato chips). Both are usually served together with different toppings.

However, they are typically eaten on their separate plate, whereas chips are often served on a standard plate along with other foods such as dips and salads.

What is the difference between tacos and nachos?

Taco is a Mexican dish consisting of ground beef or pork meat wrapped in a flour tortilla and then topped with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, salsa, and sometimes refried beans.

They are similar to tacos, except they are made from corn tortillas instead of wheat.

What Goes with Nachos?

What are nachos made of?

Corn tortilla chips

Corn tortillas are one of the key ingredients. Corn tortillas are thin and crispy, which makes them perfect. Tortillas are also gluten-free, so if you have celiac disease or need to avoid gluten, this is a great option.

Cheese

Many types of cheese can be used. Cheddar cheese is probably the most common because it has a nice flavor and melts well.

However, other varieties of cheese work just as well, such as mozzarella, feta cheese, cotija cheese, pepper jack, Swiss, blue cheese, or even vegan cheese.

Toppings

Many different kinds of toppings can be added. Some popular toppings include:

Guacamole – A delicious avocado dip that is often paired
Salsa – A spicy Mexican sauce that is usually served alongside
Lettuce – This green leafy vegetable is often used to garnish
Tomatoes – These red fruits are often found
Jalapenos – These small yellow peppers are often used
Cilantro – This herb is often used to season
Onions – These white vegetables are often used to make
Beans – These legumes are often used to top off
Peppers – These bright-colored fruits are often used to make tasty

What dishes go well with nachos?

Some of the most common dishes that go well are:

Fajitas

Fajitas are a traditional Mexican dish made of grilled meats and veggies. Fajitas are usually cooked on skewers and served with rice, beans, and tortillas.

Fajitas are great to be paired with because they are both high in carbs and low in fat. They are also very filling and will keep you satisfied throughout your meal.

Enchiladas

Enchiladas are another classic Mexican dish of sautéed meats and vegetables covered in a creamy sauce. Enchiladas are generally stuffed into a soft tortilla shell.

Enchilada casseroles are an easy way to prepare enchiladas without cooking them from scratch. Instead of using a tortilla, these casseroles use pasta shells or corn tortillas to hold.

Enchilada casserole recipes are great for people who don’t like to cook. You can buy a readymade enchilada casserole and heat it before serving.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are a hearty side dish traditionally served with ham or bacon. Baked beans are typically served with bread and butter pickles.

Baked beans are a good choice for pairing with baked beans are high in protein and low in fat. Plus, they’re super easy to make at home.

Green Beans

Green beans are a healthy vegetable commonly eaten during the summer months. They are often served with salads and sandwiches.

Green bean casserole is a simple recipe that uses canned green beans and canned cream of mushroom soup. It’s a quick and easy dish that tastes great!

Black Bean

This dark brown bean is native to Mexico. Black beans are one of the healthiest foods available today. They contain lots of fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Black beans are a great food to eat if you’re trying to lose weight. They have fewer calories than other beans but still, provide plenty of nutrients.

Pinto Bean

A pinto bean is a type of kidney bean that has been dried and hulled. Pinto beans are similar to black beans but tend to be slightly sweeter.

Pinto beans are a great source of protein and fiber. They are also rich in iron, magnesium, and folate.

Burritos

A burrito is a Mexican dish made of rolled-up tortillas filled with meat, beans, and sometimes cheese. Burritos are typically served with salsa and guacamole.

Burritos are perfect for pairing because their ingredients are similar to nachos. The only difference between the two is that burritos have different shapes.

Chili con carne

Chili con carne is a popular Mexican ground beef dish mixed with tomatoes, onions, and spices. Chili con carne is usually served over rice.

Chili con Carne is a great option for pairing because it has the same elements.

Chips & Guacamole

Guacamole is a delicious dip made of mashed avocado combined with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Chips are small pieces of fried potatoes that are often served with guacamole. If you want to add chips to your plate, you should choose something salty such as potato chips instead of sweet snacks.

Peanuts

Peanuts are a type of legume that grows underground. They are known for being crunchy and full of flavor.

Burgers

A burger is a sandwich made of cooked ground beef. Burgers are usually served on buns with lettuce, tomato, onion, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and other condiments.

Burgers are an excellent choice for pairing with the plates because they contain many of the same ingredients. However, burgers tend to be higher in calories and saturated fats.

Cheese Curds

Cheese curds are also called queso fresco. These are soft cheeses that are made by pressing fresh milk into molds.

Cheese curds are a great addition to any meal because they are creamy and tangy.

Pizza

Pizza is one of America’s favorite foods. A pizza is a flatbread topped with toppings, including meats, vegetables, sauces, and cheeses. Pizza is an excellent choice for pairing with naches because it contains the same ingredients.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a classic American dish consisting of deep-fried chicken parts. Fried chicken can be found in restaurants across the country.

Salads

Salad is a common side dish that combines raw or cooked vegetables with dressing. Salads are typically served at room temperature. Salads are low in fat and high in fiber.

Soups

Soups are generally eaten hot, but cold soups are also available. Soups are a great pairing because most soups are very filling.

Taco Salad

A taco salad is a combination of tacos and salads. Tacos are traditionally made of corn tortillas stuffed with meat and shredded cheese. Taco salads are more like a taco salad but include lettuce and tomato.

Taco salads are great for pairing because both dishes feature tacos. Both are also very filling.

Sandwiches

Sandwiches are a staple food in the United States. Sandwiches are commonly filled with bread, meat, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and other items.

Sandwiches have been around since the early 1800s. Today sandwiches are enjoyed throughout the world.

Pasta

Pasta is a form of pasta that originateHere’staly. Pasta is made from flour dough that is rolled out into long strands.

Pasta is a popular food item in the U.S., especially among children. As a result, it has become a mainstay in American cuisine.

Fresh Veggies

Vegetables are plants that do not produce seeds. They provide nutrients to animals through photosynthesis.

Many people enjoy eating vegetables because they are healthy. Vegetables are often used as part of a balanced diet.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are orange-colored tubers that grow underground. Sweet potatoes are native to Central and South America.

Sweet potatoes are a wonderful vegetable to eat because they are loaded with vitamins and minerals.

Desserts

Desserts are sweet treats that are often consumed after dinner. They are light and easy on your stomach.

How to Make Nachos?

nachos guacamole — Nachos plate. Credit: canva

They are simple to prepare and require only a few ingredients.

Here’s how to make them:

Prep time: 15 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Serves: 6

Ingredients:

16 ounces tortilla chips (you can also use your homemade tortilla chip)
1 pound of ground beef
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1/4 cup water
15-ounce red beans
4 cups pre-shredded cheese cheddar

Additional topping ideas:

1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup guacamole 1/3 cup sliced olives
1/2 cup fresh salsa
1/3 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 slice or pickled jalapenos
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup sliced green onion

Instructionsthere’sat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add in ground beef. Use a spoon to break up the meat and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning, stir, and cook for 60-90 seconds.
Pour in the water. Stir to combine and cook until heated through. Keep warm.
Spread chips onto a baking sheet (or other desired oven-safe baking dish, including a 9×13 pan, cast iron skillet, or even a pie plate).
Sprinkle 2 cups of the cheese over the chips. Dot with the beef-bean mixture. Top with the remaining 2 cups of cheese.
Bake in the 350-degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
Remove from heat and add additional toppings as desired. Serve warm.

FAQs

Can nachos be a meal?

Yes! A hearty portion is a great snack or light dinner option that will keep your energy levels high all day long.

How are nachos traditionally served?

The platters are typically served at parties and gatherings, but they’re also perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and picnics. They’re easy to pack up and take anywhere, so it’s never too late to start making them!

What are the best things to put on nachos?

The sky’s the limit when it comes to topping. We recommend adding whatever you want because there’s no wrong way to eat! Some ideas to get you started are sour cream, guacamole, salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, black olives, hot peppers, bacon bits, grilled chicken, steak, shrimp, and crabmeat, etc.