Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

Satisfy your cravings with these delicious Baked Nachos topped with zesty salsa and creamy queso. Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a cozy night in snack.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-23T22:10:27.812Z

Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso are the ultimate comfort food. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, zesty salsa, and creamy cheese sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Whether it's game day or a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy tortilla chips that hold all the delicious toppings
  • Creamy queso that adds a rich flavor to every bite
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings for a personal touch

The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion

Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso are more than just a snack; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that can brighten any gathering. Whether you're hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy night in, these nachos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Their vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma will surely entice your guests and elevate your snack game.

One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. With a variety of toppings and dip options, each person can customize their plate according to their preferences. From spicy jalapeños to zesty salsa, you can create a nacho masterpiece that suits any palate, making it an inclusive treat for everyone.

Cheese Lovers Rejoice

At the heart of these baked nachos is the glorious combination of cheeses. The blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a melty, gooey layer that binds all the toppings together while adding a rich flavor profile. As the nachos bake, the cheese bubbles to perfection, creating an irresistible layer that beckons you to dig in.

Not to mention, the addition of creamy queso takes this dish to the next level. Its smooth texture and seasoned richness provide a delightful contrast to the crispy tortilla chips, ensuring every bite is a heavenly experience. Cheese lovers will find it hard to resist going back for seconds!

Pairing Suggestions

To truly enhance your Baked Nachos experience, consider pairing them with refreshing beverages. A chilled beer, a classic margarita, or even a fruity mocktail can complement the flavors beautifully. The effervescence of soda or the tartness of citrus drinks can cut through the richness of the cheese, making for a balanced snacking experience.

Additionally, serve your nachos with a side of guacamole or sour cream for an extra layer of creaminess. These dips not only add to the flavor but also provide a cooling contrast to the spice of any jalapeños you choose to include. Together, these elements create a well-rounded snack that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Baked Nachos

  • 1 bag of tortilla chips
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup of salsa
  • 1 can of black olives, sliced
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Ingredients for Queso

  • 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup of milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Queso

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, chili powder, and salt to taste. Keep warm on low heat.

Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a large baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chips.

Top with salsa, black olives, and jalapeños if using.

Bake the Nachos

Bake the nachos in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and drizzle the warm queso over the top.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with extra salsa on the side.

Tips for the Best Nachos

To achieve the ultimate nacho experience, it's crucial to layer your toppings wisely. Start with a base of tortilla chips, followed by cheese, and then your other toppings. This ensures that every chip is loaded with flavor and prevents sogginess, allowing for a delightful crunch with each bite.

Consider using freshly made tortilla chips if possible. They offer superior crunch and flavor compared to packaged varieties. If you choose to use store-bought chips, opt for thick-cut ones that can hold up to the weight of the toppings without breaking.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftover nachos (though they’re unlikely to last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While reheating nachos can be tricky, you can revive them by placing them on a baking sheet and warming them in the oven at a low temperature. This helps to restore some of their original crispiness.

However, it's best to store the toppings separately to maintain their texture. Enjoy your nachos within a day or two for the best flavor and freshness. A quick reheat, and you can relive the cheesy goodness all over again!

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the queso ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the queso in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add toppings like diced tomatoes, corn, or avocado for a fresh twist.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute with your favorite cheese varieties based on your taste.

Baked Nachos with Salsa and Queso

Satisfy your cravings with these delicious Baked Nachos topped with zesty salsa and creamy queso. Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a cozy night in snack.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Treats & Confections

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Baked Nachos

  1. 1 bag of tortilla chips
  2. 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  3. 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  4. 1 cup of salsa
  5. 1 can of black olives, sliced
  6. 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
  7. 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Ingredients for Queso

  1. 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
  2. 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
  3. 1/2 cup of milk
  4. 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
  5. 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
  6. Salt to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, chili powder, and salt to taste. Keep warm on low heat.

Step 02

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a large baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chips. Top with salsa, black olives, and jalapeños if using.

Step 03

Bake the nachos in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and drizzle the warm queso over the top.

Step 04

Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with extra salsa on the side.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 15g