Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite indulgence when it comes to outdoor cooking—Campfire Nachos! Picture this: a starry night, a crackling campfire, and the aroma of melted cheese wafting through the air. What’s not to love? Not only are these nachos a crowd-pleaser, but they also bring back sweet memories of camping trips with friends, where laughter and delicious food were always in full supply. I still remember the first time I made these bad boys; I thought, why not combine two of my favorite things—nachos and the great outdoors? It was a game changer!
These nachos are perfect for sharing (or not, no judgment here!), and they’re as much fun to make as they are to eat. The best part is you can customize them to your heart’s content with whatever toppings you have on hand. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!
What’s in Campfire Nachos?
Tortilla Chips: The crispy base for this tasty treat! I typically go for a bag that’s around 10-12 ounces—enough for everyone to enjoy without a big mess.
Ground Beef or Turkey: You can’t have nachos without some sort of meaty goodness! I prefer ground beef for that classic flavor, but turkey is an excellent lean option if you’re watching your calories.
Taco Seasoning: This is where the magic happens! A pre-packaged taco seasoning mix makes it super easy (and delicious) to add flavor. Of course, you can always whip up your own blend if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese: Cheese, glorious cheese! I like using a mix of these two cheeses for a melty, gooey top layer that’s positively irresistible.
Diced Tomatoes, Red Onion, and Bell Peppers: Fresh veggies are a must for that nice crunch and freshness. You can use any color of bell peppers you like—be as colorful as your heart desires!
Cilantro: A sprinkle of this herb adds a fresh burst of flavor. I’m a huge fan, but if it’s not your thing, feel free to skip it!
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream serves as the perfect cooling agent against the spice and adds a lovely creaminess.
Jalapeños: For those who like a kick! These are completely optional, but I say go for it if you’re a heat enthusiast.
Olive Oil: Just a splash is needed for cooking the meat; it helps everything brown nicely.
Is Campfire Nachos Good for You?
Let’s break it down! Campfire Nachos, while being a delightful treat, do have their health considerations.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Rich in protein, these meats are great for energy and muscle repair, but it’s best to be mindful of serving sizes, especially if you’re watching your fat intake. Lean turkey is a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for something lighter.
Tortilla Chips: The crispy crunch comes with some calories, so again, moderation is key. Choose baked chips if you want a slightly healthier option!
Fresh Veggies: The diced tomatoes, red onion, and bell peppers add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your meal.
Overall, I like to think of these nachos as a fun occasional treat; just balance them out with some healthier choices throughout the week!
Ingredients List
– 1 bag of tortilla chips (approximately 10-12 ounces)
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Jalapeños (optional, for topping)
– Olive oil (for cooking)
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on how hungry you are and how many chips you can resist!
How to Make Campfire Nachos?
1. **Prepare the Fire:** Start a campfire and let it burn down until you have a nice bed of hot coals. If you’re using a grill over the fire, just make sure it’s stable and safe to cook on.
2. **Cook the Meat:** In a pan over the fire or on a portable stove, add a splash of olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s nicely browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning, add a splash of water, and cook according to the seasoning packet instructions.
3. **Layer the Nachos:** In a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-duty grill-safe dish, spread half of the tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. Top with half of the cooked meat, half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and half of the diced veggies. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
4. **Melt the Cheese:** Place the skillet over the campfire (or on the grill) and cover with a lid or aluminum foil to trap the heat. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Garnish and Serve:** Carefully remove the skillet from the fire. Top the nachos with fresh cilantro and any additional toppings like sour cream and jalapeños. Serve immediately while hot.
Nacho Variations and Expert Tips!
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not switch up the toppings? You can add beans, guacamole, or even some grilled chicken for extra protein. If veggies are your jam, sprinkle on some sliced black olives or corn, too!
Here’s a little pro tip: if you’re going to be camping for a while, precook the meat at home, season it, and then store it in a cooler. That way, all you have to do is layer your nachos and heat them up over the fire!
So there you have it! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy some delicious Campfire Nachos. Trust me—there’s nothing quite like sharing gooey cheese and crispy chips under the stars. If you give it a go, please let me know how it turns out! Happy camping and happy eating!
