How to Make Traditional Mexican-Style Nachos with Cheese Sauce
Making authentic Mexican-style nachos with cheese sauce is a delightful culinary adventure! In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of preparing these mouth-watering nachos at home. Follow the instructions below to create a dish that will surely impress your guests and satisfy your craving for delicious, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Nachos:
Tortilla Chips: Use thick, sturdy corn tortilla chips.
Shredded Cheese: A mix of Oaxaca cheese and Monterey Jack or Cheddar works well.
Toppings (Optional):
Jalape?os (pickled or fresh)
Chopped tomatoes
Chopped onions
Fresh cilantro
Sour cream
Guacamole
Black beans or refried beans
Ground beef or shredded chicken (optional)
Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of Oaxaca and Monterey Jack is ideal)
1-2 jalape?os (finely chopped, optional for spice)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
Step 1: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. If using, add the chopped jalape?os, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and salt. Stir until well combined.
Assemble the Nachos:
Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Arrange a layer of tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter.
Step 7: Pour some of the cheese sauce over the chips, ensuring even coverage.
Step 8: Sprinkle your desired toppings over the cheese sauce and chips.
Step 9: Place the nachos in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the chips are slightly golden.
Serve:
Step 10: Remove the nachos from the oven and let them cool for a minute.
Step 11: Add additional cheese sauce, fresh cilantro, sour cream, and guacamole for the final touches.
Step 12: Serve immediately while hot and cheesy!
Tips
For extra flavor: Consider seasoning the cheese sauce with a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika.
To add more protein: You can also add seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
Enjoy Your Authentic Mexican-Style Nachos!