Ohio Nachos are a fun twist on the classic snack! Picture crispy tortilla chips topped with warm cheese, flavorful chili, and fresh toppings like onions and jalapeños.
They’re perfect for game day or a cozy night in. I love piling on the toppings—it’s like a tasty tower of yum! And honestly, who can resist nachos? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Chips: Thick-cut or kettle-style chips are best because they hold up well against toppings. If you want a healthier option, try baked chips or even sliced pita chips. They can add a nice crunch too.
Cheese: I love a good cheddar and Monterey Jack blend for creaminess and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or a dairy-free cheese for plant-based options!
Meat: Spicy sausage gives a great kick, but ground turkey or chicken are good leaner choices. For a veggie option, you can opt for black beans or seasoned lentils, which are tasty and filling!
Sour Cream: If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt if needed. A sprinkle of lime juice adds a nice tang, too!
Chives: Fresh chives are great for a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, green onions work just as well. You can even use freshly chopped parsley for a different fresh note.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Melts Perfectly?
Getting that cheese to melt just right is key for delicious nachos! Here’s a simple guide:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal to melt cheese without burning it.
- Spread the chips in a single layer. Overlapping chips won’t melt evenly.
- Layer cheese generously over the chips, but don’t go too thick or it might not melt all the way through.
- Keep an eye on the nachos while they bake—they usually take about 10 minutes to get bubbly and golden. You want melty goodness!
- For a great finish, broil them for the last minute to get that perfect golden top.
Enjoy making your Ohio Nachos as cheesy and tasty as you like!
Ohio Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large bag of potato chips (thick-cut or kettle style recommended)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled spicy sausage or ground beef chili
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- Optional: paprika or chili powder for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ohio Nachos recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and just 10 minutes to bake. So in just 25 minutes, you can have a cheesy, savory snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, turn your oven on and set it to 350°F (175°C). This will make sure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your nachos.
2. Prepare the Chips:
Grab a large baking sheet or any ovenproof plate you like. Spread the potato chips out evenly across the bottom so they don’t overlap too much. This way, every chip gets covered in cheesy goodness!
3. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously all over the chips. Don’t be shy with it—everyone loves extra cheese!
4. Layer on the Sausage or Chili:
Next, take your cooked and crumbled spicy sausage or ground beef chili and sprinkle it evenly over the cheese and chips. This adds a hearty kick to your nachos.
5. Bake the Nachos:
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when the cheese is melted and bubbly, they’re ready to come out!
6. Add the Sour Cream:
Once you’ve taken the nachos out of the oven, let them cool slightly. Then, dollop the sour cream in small spoonfuls across the top. This adds a nice creamy touch.
7. Finish with Chives:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives over the nachos for a burst of freshness and color. They’re gonna look beautiful!
8. Optional Spice:
If you like a little extra kick, sprinkle a bit of paprika or chili powder over the top for added flavor and a pop of color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in while they’re warm and cheesy! These Ohio Nachos are perfect for sharing—or not!
Enjoy your yummy and satisfying Ohio Nachos, packed with flavor and a little twist from your usual nacho experience!
Can I Use Different Types of Chips?
Absolutely! While thick-cut or kettle-style potato chips are recommended, you can also use tortilla chips or sweet potato chips for a different flavor. Just make sure they can handle the toppings without getting too soggy!
How Can I Make Ohio Nachos Vegetarian?
To make these nachos vegetarian, simply skip the sausage or ground beef and replace it with black beans, grilled vegetables, or a hearty veggie chili. You still get all the flavor without the meat!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Nachos?
Unfortunately, nachos are best fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so in the oven to help the chips retain some crunch!
Can I Prepare Any Ingredients in Advance?
Yes! You can pre-cook and crumble the sausage or beef ahead of time. You can also prepare the cheese and toppings in advance, just assemble and bake when ready to eat!
