Craving those stadium-style nachos but don't want to fight the crowds or break the bank? Then get ready to unleash your inner chef with this incredible copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Nachos recipe! This easy recipe is perfect for game day, movie night, or any time you're craving a seriously delicious and satisfying meal. Forget takeout – this homemade version is surprisingly simple to make and tastes even better than the restaurant version. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
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For the Nachos:
- 1 bag (12-15 oz) tortilla chips (your favorite kind!)
- 1 lb ground beef (or your preferred protein: chicken, turkey, or even plant-based crumbles)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
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For the Buffalo Chicken:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is a time saver!)
- 1/4 cup Frank's RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or your favorite hot sauce)
- 1 tablespoon butter
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Optional Toppings:
- Jalapeños, sliced
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
Instructions:
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Prepare the Buffalo Chicken: Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and Frank's RedHot sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the chicken is coated in the sauce (about 2-3 minutes). Set aside.
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Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook until the liquid is absorbed and the beef is cooked through.
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Assemble the Nachos: Spread half of the tortilla chips in a large, oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Top with half of the seasoned ground beef, half of the Buffalo chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat layers with remaining chips, beef, chicken, and cheese.
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Bake (Optional): For extra melty cheese and warm chips, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish & Serve: Top with green onions and your favorite additional toppings, like jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Nachos Perfection:
- Use a variety of cheeses: Mixing cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a delicious flavor combination. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there is enough space between the chips for even cooking and melting of the cheese.
- Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preference. For extra heat, add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the ground beef.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the ground beef and Buffalo chicken ahead of time and assemble the nachos just before serving or baking.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Nachos: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Nachos: Add a generous amount of jalapeños or other chili peppers for an extra kick.
- Supreme Nachos: Load up on your favorite toppings! Consider adding diced tomatoes, olives, or refried beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories (depending on toppings and portion size)
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal for those looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals (when using lean proteins and choosing healthier toppings). Enjoy this homemade version of a classic favorite – it’s sure to become one of your best recipes! Prepare to be amazed at how simple it is to create these restaurant-quality nachos in your own kitchen. Enjoy!