Ohio Nachos are a fun twist on the classic nacho dish! They feature crispy tortilla chips piled high with gooey cheese, savory chili, and topped with fresh veggies.
These nachos are perfect for game day or just a cozy night in. I love adding a dollop of sour cream on top—who can resist that creamy goodness? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Chips: Use a sturdy brand to hold up under the toppings. If you want something healthier, try baked tortilla chips or nacho-flavored pita chips, which add a fun twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but mixing it with mozzarella makes it extra gooey. For a kick, consider pepper jack. If you’re dairy-free, opt for plant-based cheese alternatives.
Tomatoes: Fresh diced tomatoes add juiciness. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes or salsa for convenience.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you prefer a healthier option. It brings that creamy texture while adding protein!
Chives: Fresh chives give a mild onion flavor. You can easily replace them with finely chopped green onions or even cilantro for a different taste.
How Do I Get My Cheese Super Melty?
Getting that perfect melty cheese on your nachos is key! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged, as it melts better.
- Spread cheese evenly, covering as many chips as possible for consistent melting.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking; this helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Watch closely towards the end—10 minutes is usually perfect, but ovens can vary.
Tip: Let nachos sit for a minute before serving; the cheese will settle slightly, making it easier to scoop! Enjoy! 🌟
How to Make Ohio Nachos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large bag of sturdy potato chips (about 10–12 oz)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh chives (or green onions)
- Optional: cooked chili or ground beef seasoned with taco spices (for extra heartiness)
- Optional: jalapeño slices for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes to bake, so you can have it ready in just about 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or party treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will make sure your nachos bake evenly and the cheese gets perfectly melted.
2. Prepare the Chips:
Take your large bag of sturdy potato chips and spread them out evenly in a single layer on an oven-safe platter or baking sheet. Make sure the chips don’t overlap too much to allow for even heating.
3. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chips, covering most of them. The more cheese, the better!
4. Layer on the Extras:
If you want to make your nachos heartier, sprinkle cooked chili or seasoned ground beef evenly over the cheesy chips. This is optional, but it adds a nice touch!
5. Bake the Nachos:
Carefully place the platter in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and is bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once they’re done, carefully remove the nachos from the oven. Dollop sour cream over the top in several spots for that creamy goodness.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the diced tomatoes and chopped chives evenly over the nachos for a fresh crunch. If you love a bit of spice, add some sliced jalapeños on top.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the nachos immediately while they’re warm and melty. Grab a plate and enjoy your Ohio Nachos with your favorite drink. Dive in and have fun!
Can I Use Other Types of Chips for Ohio Nachos?
Absolutely! While sturdy potato chips work best, feel free to use tortilla chips, pita chips, or even veggie chips. Just make sure whatever you choose can hold up to the toppings!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic stand-in for sour cream—it offers creaminess with added protein. You could also use vegan sour cream for a dairy-free option!
Can I Make These Nachos in Advance?
It’s best to assemble nachos right before baking to keep them crispy. However, you can prepare the toppings in advance (like cooked chili or chopped veggies) and store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake.
How Do I Store Leftover Nachos?
Leftover nachos are best eaten fresh, but if you have some, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for about one day. To reheat, it’s best to use the oven to get the chips back crispy; microwave may make them soggy.
