Description
Looking for a healthier nacho option? This vegetarian nachos recipe turns a classic favorite into a balanced, flavor-packed dish. Crispy tortilla chips are layered with cheese (or plant-based alternatives), hearty beans, and colorful veggies, then topped with fresh salsas and creamy sauces. Perfect for game nights, gatherings, or a quick, satisfying meal!
Ingredients
Base & Cheese:
- 6 cups tortilla chips (whole grain or lightly salted)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or vegan alternative)
Protein & Veggies:
- 1 ½ cups black beans or pinto beans (cooked)
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
- ½ cup chopped onions
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Sauces & Toppings:
- ½ cup fresh salsa
- ½ cup guacamole or diced avocado
- ¼ cup sliced jalapeños (optional, for heat)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2️⃣ Prepare the Beans & Veggies: In a pan, sauté onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms with cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder for about 3-5 minutes. Add the beans and stir well.
3️⃣ Layer the Nachos: Spread half of the tortilla chips on the baking sheet. Evenly distribute half of the bean mixture and shredded cheese. Repeat with another layer.
4️⃣ Bake Until Crispy: Place in the oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the edges of the chips start to turn golden.
5️⃣ Add Fresh Toppings: Remove from the oven and immediately top with tomatoes, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, and cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the nachos and serve warm with extra dips on the side.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use thick, restaurant-style tortilla chips.
- Swap black beans for refried beans for a creamier texture.
- Use dairy-free cheese or cashew-based queso for a vegan version.
- Add seasoned tofu or lentils for more plant-based protein.
- To keep nachos from getting soggy, layer toppings just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: portion (¼ of the nachos)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Sugar: ~3g
- Sodium: ~450mg
- Fat: ~15g
- Saturated Fat: ~6g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fiber: ~7g
- Protein: ~12g
- Cholesterol: ~15mg (varies with cheese choice)
Keywords: healthy nachos, vegetarian nachos, meatless nachos, plant-based nachos, easy nacho