There’s something exhilarating about the crunch of nacho chips carrying a hearty chili on a cozy evening. I first whipped up this Deluxe Walking Nachos recipe during a spontaneous movie night with friends, and they couldn’t get enough. It turned into an irresistible gathering of flavors as we savored each bite straight from the chip bags, feeling like we had stumbled upon a culinary treasure!
What makes this dish so fantastic is not just its playful presentation, but also its effortless assembly. With ground beef, a mix of savory beans, and zesty spices simmering for hours, the resulting chili melds beautifully, creating a comforting meal that says “you’re home.” Plus, the options for toppings allow everyone to customize to their heart’s content!
If your taste buds are ready for a delightful twist on classic nachos, let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s bound to be the star of your next gathering. Don’t worry—having fun with your food has never been this easy!
Why are Deluxe Walking Nachos a must-try?
Irresistible Appeal: Each chip bag filled to the brim makes for a playful, crowd-pleasing way to serve.
Comforting Flavor: The blend of seasoned beef, beans, and tomatoes creates a warm, savory hug for your taste buds.
Easily Customizable: Let everyone choose their favorite toppings, from cheese to jalapeños, ensuring a personalized treat.
Effortlessly Simple: Just set it and forget it in the slow cooker for hours of deliciousness without constant attention.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game night or a cozy movie marathon, these nachos guarantee smiles all around!
Try serving these with your favorite dips for an even more delightful experience!
Deluxe Walking Nachos Ingredients
• Get ready to make an unforgettable dish!
For the Chili
• 1 pound lean ground beef – choose lean for a healthier option that still delivers robust flavor.
• 1 large sweet onion, chopped – it adds a natural sweetness that balances the chili’s heat.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – fresh garlic enhances the aroma and savory depth of your chili.
• 2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) diced tomatoes with mild green chiles – use one can drained for a thicker chili, and the other undrained for moisture.
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) pinto beans, rinsed and drained – they provide creaminess and heartiness to your walking nachos.
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) black beans, rinsed and drained – add extra protein and a lovely color contrast in your chili.
• 2 to 3 tablespoons chili powder – adjust to taste for the level of heat that fits your crowd’s preference!
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin – this spice deepens the flavor profile with its earthy tones.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
For Serving
• 18 packages (1 ounce each) nacho-flavored tortilla chips – go for nacho-flavored for an extra layer of flavor in your walking nachos.
• Optional toppings:
- Shredded cheddar cheese – sprinkle on for that gooey, melty goodness.
- Sour cream – adds a cool, creamy element to balance the spices.
- Chopped tomatoes – fresh and vibrant, they bring a burst of color and freshness.
- Pickled jalapeño slices – perfect for those who enjoy an extra kick!
Get ready to impress your guests with this stunning take on nachos that everyone will want to dive into!
How to Make Deluxe Walking Nachos
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Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
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Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the beef mixture to a 5-quart slow cooker. Drain one can of diced tomatoes, discarding the liquid, and add it to the slow cooker with the undrained second can.
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Mix in the Beans: Stir in the rinsed pinto beans, black beans, chili powder, ground cumin, and salt. This flavorful combination is the heart of your chili!
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Cook and Blend: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Feel free to mash the beans for your desired consistency before serving.
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Prepare for Serving: Just before you’re ready to enjoy your nachos, cut open the bags of tortilla chips. Divide the warm chili among the bags, then let everyone top with their favorite ingredients!
Optional: Don’t forget to garnish with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for an added delight!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Deluxe Walking Nachos
• Choose Quality Meat: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Avoid fatty cuts that can make the chili greasy.
• Slow Cooking Wonder: Cooking on low for the full 6-8 hours develops deeper flavors. Resist the urge to rush—good things take time!
• Flavor Balance: Taste before serving to adjust spices. Too much chili powder can overpower; balance is key for perfect Deluxe Walking Nachos!
• Customize Wisely: Let guests pick their toppings, but offer classics like cheese and sour cream. Avoid overwhelming flavors that clash with the chili.
• Prep Ahead: Assemble the chili in the slow cooker early in the day. It gives you more time to enjoy with friends and family when it’s game night!
Make Ahead Options
These Deluxe Walking Nachos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chili base up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the beef, onion, and garlic, and combine them with the beans and tomatoes in the slow cooker; let it cool, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chili on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, mash the beans to your desired consistency, and then follow the assembly steps with your tortilla chips and toppings. This way, you’ll have a comforting and flavorful dish that’s just as delicious and ready to impress your guests!
Deluxe Walking Nachos Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with this recipe and make it your own! Each variation adds a unique twist to elevate your nacho experience.
- Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with 1 pound of finely chopped mushrooms or lentils for a hearty option.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for an extra heat level. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
- Dairy-Free: Swap regular cheese with dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version. Coconut yogurt can substitute sour cream for a creamy touch.
- Bean Lovers: Mix in a variety of beans, such as kidney or chickpeas, to boost the protein and flavor profile even more.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika to introduce a rich, smoky undertone that complements the chili beautifully.
- Sweet Twist: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to balance the heat and enhance the chili’s depth. It gives a nice counterpoint to savory flavors.
- Crunchy Toppers: For an unexpected texture, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips over the chili before serving or substitute with crispy fried onions.
This is your canvas—let your creative culinary spirit shine!
How to Store and Freeze Deluxe Walking Nachos
Fridge: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving again.
Freezer: Chili can be frozen in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or heat directly from frozen over low heat, stirring occasionally. Always reheat until piping hot.
Assembly: Keep tortilla chips separate until serving to maintain their crunch. Store them in a cool, dry place in their original packaging.
What to Serve with Deluxe Walking Nachos?
As you get ready to wow your guests with these flavorful nachos, consider pairing them with crave-worthy dishes that enhance their comforting nature.
- Fresh Guacamole: This creamy, zesty dip adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili, inviting everyone to indulge.
- Zesty Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn mixed with lime and cilantro provides a delightful crunch, balancing the richness of the nachos.
- Pico de Gallo: Raw and vibrant, this fresh salsa ups the flavor profile while infusing your meal with a burst of color and freshness.
- Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: For hidden surprises, these crispy bites filled with cream cheese give a delightful heat that complements the nachos beautifully.
- Chilled Coconut Water: This refreshing drink quenches your thirst, while its natural sweetness works wonders alongside the bold flavors of your dish.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these classic treats bring a sweet finish to a savory meal, satisfying that sweet tooth!
- Simple Garden Salad: Crisp greens drizzled with a light vinaigrette serve as a crisp counterpart, lightening up the hearty nacho experience.
- Craft Beer: Pairing with a hoppy IPA enhances the flavors of the chili. The bitterness cuts through the richness, making every bite even more enjoyable.
- Tequila Sunrise: If cocktails are on the menu, this fruity and refreshing drink adds a tropical flair that brightens up the whole gathering!
Deluxe Walking Nachos Recipe FAQs
What kind of tomatoes should I use for the chili?
I recommend using canned diced tomatoes with mild green chiles for that perfect blend of flavor and spice. One can can be drained for a thicker chili, while the other adds moisture. Have fun experimenting with different brands to find your favorite!
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot, ensuring you enjoy every last bite.
Can I freeze Deluxe Walking Nachos chili?
Yes, you can! The chili freezes perfectly for up to 3 months. I often portion it into freezer-safe bags, squeezing out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a delicious meal anytime!
What if my chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Just add a splash of beef broth or water gradually while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to cook down.
Are there any dietary concerns to consider?
Definitely! For those with gluten sensitivities, double-check the tortilla chips to ensure they’re gluten-free. As for allergies, be cautious with toppings like cheese or sour cream, and offer dairy-free alternatives to accommodate your guests’ needs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili mixture in the slow cooker the night before. Just refrigerate it after assembling and plug it in to cook in the morning. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen!
Delicious Deluxe Walking Nachos for Your Next Game Night
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the beef mixture to a 5-quart slow cooker. Drain one can of diced tomatoes, discarding the liquid, and add it to the slow cooker with the undrained second can.
- Mix in the Beans: Stir in the rinsed pinto beans, black beans, chili powder, ground cumin, and salt. This flavorful combination is the heart of your chili!
- Cook and Blend: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. This long cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prepare for Serving: Just before you’re ready to enjoy your nachos, cut open the bags of tortilla chips. Divide the warm chili among the bags, then let everyone top with their favorite ingredients!