Olive Garden Nachos
This Olive Garden-inspired nachos recipe features crispy tortilla chips, seasoned protein, a rich homemade cheese sauce, and a variety of fresh toppings that come together for the ultimate cheesy snack. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a satisfying indulgent treat, these nachos offer a delicious balance of flavors with a creamy, cheesy base and just the right amount of heat. Customize the toppings to suit your tastes for a one-of-a-kind nacho experience!
Equipment
- Baking sheet (1) – to bake nachos
- Medium saucepan (1) – to prepare the cheese sauce
- Whisk (1) – to stir the sauce
- Large spoon or spatula (1) – to stir the meat and toppings
- Grater (1) – to shred cheese (if not pre-shredded)
- Knife and chopping board (1) – for slicing vegetables and chopping protein
- Oven – for baking nachos
Ingredients
For the Nachos
- 10 oz tortilla chips 1 bag
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken or meat of your choice
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Cheese Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings & Garnishes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup pickled or fresh jalapeños sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup guacamole optional
- Fresh cilantro optional
- Lime wedges optional
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Cook the Protein:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or chicken) until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning (following package instructions or using homemade seasoning). Set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking continuously for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly add heavy cream while whisking until the mixture is smooth. Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese and continue whisking until the cheese melts completely. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the Nachos:
- On the prepared baking sheet, spread a layer of tortilla chips. Top with the seasoned meat and pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the chips. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Bake the Nachos:
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chips are golden.
Add Fresh Toppings:
- Once out of the oven, drizzle the remaining cheese sauce over the nachos. Add sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, olives, green onions, and any other garnishes you like.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden-inspired nachos!
Notes
- Toppings Variations: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add refried beans, shredded lettuce, or even olives for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use refried beans or grilled vegetables as your base for a vegetarian version of the nachos.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the cheese sauce and protein the day before and store them in the fridge. When ready to assemble, simply warm them up and continue with the recipe.
- Cheese Sauce Consistency: If your cheese sauce gets too thick while sitting, simply add a little milk or cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.