Craving a delicious plate of nachos but not sure what to pair them with? Look no further! This article has got you covered with a variety of tasty options that will perfectly complement your favorite cheesy, crunchy treat. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a movie night at home, discover the ultimate accompaniments for your nachos that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your guests asking for more. Get ready to elevate your nacho game to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Salsa and Dips
Classic Salsa
No nacho platter is complete without a generous serving of classic salsa. Made with ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice, this flavorful chunky sauce adds a refreshing touch to your nacho chips. The combination of tangy tomatoes, spicy jalapenos, and zesty lime juice creates the perfect balance of flavors that will elevate your nachos to the next level. It’s the epitome of freshness and adds a vibrant pop of color to your plate.
Guacamole
Another must-have dip for nachos is the ever-popular guacamole. Made from creamy avocados, diced onions, chopped tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and a dash of salt, guacamole brings a creamy and luxurious element to your nacho experience. The smooth texture of perfectly ripe avocados combined with the refreshing flavors of lime and cilantro makes guacamole a crowd favorite. It adds a velvety richness that perfectly complements the crunchiness of the nacho chips.
Queso Dip
If you’re looking to add some ooey-gooey goodness to your nachos, queso dip is the way to go. This smooth and cheesy dip is made by combining melted cheese with creamy milk or cream and a touch of spices. The result is a luscious and decadent sauce that clings to each chip, providing a satisfyingly melty bite every time. The creamy queso dip brings a comforting and indulgent element to your nacho experience, making it hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds).
Sour Cream
Sour cream is a classic condiment that adds a cool and tangy element to your nachos. Whether you dollop it on top or use it as a creamy base for other toppings, sour cream provides a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the other dips and salsas. Its creamy texture and subtle acidity help balance the heat and spice of the nachos, creating a harmonious combination of flavors. It also adds a touch of richness and creaminess that complements the crunchiness of the chips.
Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo, also known as salsa fresca, is a Mexican salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds a burst of freshness and a crunchy texture to your nachos. The vibrant flavors of pico de gallo enhance the overall taste profile of your nachos, providing a zesty and herbaceous kick. It’s the perfect topping for those who enjoy a lighter and more refreshing twist to their nacho experience.
Cheesy Accompaniments
Cheese Sauce
For all the cheese lovers out there, cheese sauce is a delectable addition to your nachos. Made from a melange of melted cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, combined with butter, milk, and spices, cheese sauce provides a creamy and velvety coating for your chips. The smooth and luscious texture of the sauce perfectly complements the crunchy nachos, creating a delightful combination of textures. Its rich and savory flavor adds a comforting and hearty element to your nachos.
Jalapeno Cheese
If you’re looking to add a spicy kick to your nachos, jalapeno cheese is your go-to option. This creamy and tangy cheese features bits of jalapeno peppers, adding a flavorful heat to your nachos. The jalapenos infuse the cheese with their fiery essence, creating a tantalizingly spicy experience. Each cheesy bite is punctuated by a burst of heat that adds excitement and depth of flavor to your nachos.
Melted Cheddar
Sometimes, simplicity is key. Melted cheddar cheese offers a classic and straightforward option for adding cheesiness to your nachos. The smooth and melty texture of cheddar cheese perfectly coats each chip, ensuring a gooey and satisfying bite. The rich and nutty flavors of cheddar cheese provide a comforting and familiar taste that pairs well with the other toppings on your nacho platter. It’s a no-fuss option that guarantees a crowd-pleasing result.
Monterey Jack
Monterey Jack cheese, known for its mild and creamy flavor, is an excellent choice for nachos. Its smooth and melty texture makes it a perfect candidate for melting and drizzling over your nacho chips. Monterey Jack adds a subtle and buttery taste to your nachos, providing a mild and creamy complement to the other bold flavors on your plate. It creates a harmonious balance and enhances the overall cheesy experience of your nachos.
Colby Cheese
Colby cheese is another fantastic option for cheese lovers. With its mild and slightly sweet flavor, Colby cheese adds a delightful creaminess to your nachos. Its smooth texture makes it easy to melt and ensures an even distribution of cheese throughout your nacho platter. Colby cheese pairs well with a variety of toppings and sauces, creating a harmonious combination of flavors that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Protein Options
Ground Beef
Ground beef is a classic protein option that adds heartiness and flavor to your nachos. Seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic, ground beef brings a savory and meaty element to your nacho experience. The combination of spices creates a rich and complex flavor profile that complements the other toppings and dips. Each bite of nacho chip topped with seasoned ground beef is a burst of indulgence that satisfies both your cravings and your appetite.
Shredded Chicken
If you prefer a lighter protein option, shredded chicken is a delicious choice for your nachos. Tender and succulent chicken, seasoned with spices like paprika, cumin, and garlic powder, provides a flavorful and lean protein source. The shredded chicken blends seamlessly with the other toppings, allowing the flavors to harmonize and create a balanced bite. It adds a satisfying protein element to your nachos without overpowering the other components.
Pulled Pork
For a taste of smoky and tender meat, pulled pork is a fantastic protein choice for your nachos. Slow-cooked until fork-tender and infused with flavors from a blend of spices and barbecue sauce, pulled pork brings a mouthwatering and robust taste to your nachos. The smoky and tangy flavors of the pork complement the other toppings, creating a delightful explosion of flavors and textures in each bite. It’s a protein option that adds a touch of indulgence and comfort to your nacho platter.
Black Beans
If you’re looking to add a vegetarian protein option to your nachos, black beans are an excellent choice. Packed with fiber and protein, black beans provide a wholesome and satisfying element to your nacho experience. Seasoned with spices like cumin, garlic, and chili powder, black beans offer a flavorful and slightly smoky taste. They add a textural element to your nachos, creating a satisfying contrast to the crunchiness of the chips.
Grilled Shrimp
If you’re craving a taste of the sea, grilled shrimp is a delectable and elegant protein option for your nachos. Lightly seasoned with spices and grilled to perfection, shrimp brings a delicate and succulent texture to your nachos. The mild sweetness of the shrimp pairs well with the bold flavors of the other toppings, creating a harmonious balance. Grilled shrimp adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to your nacho platter, elevating it to a restaurant-quality dish.
Vegetarian Choices
Sautéed Onions and Peppers
For a burst of vibrant flavors and colors, sautéed onions and peppers are a wonderful vegetarian option for your nachos. The combination of caramelized onions and tender-crisp peppers adds a natural sweetness and crunch to your nacho experience. Sautéing the onions and peppers together enhances their flavors and creates a deliciously aromatic topping for your nachos. This vegetarian option provides a refreshing and wholesome element to your plate.
Corn
Fresh and juicy corn is a versatile and delicious choice for vegetarian nachos. Whether it’s grilled, boiled, or roasted, corn provides a burst of sweetness and a satisfying crunch to your nachos. The vibrant yellow kernels add a pop of color, enhancing the visual appeal of your plate. The natural sweetness of corn complements the other toppings, creating a well-rounded and flavorful bite.
Refried Beans
Refried beans are a classic vegetarian topping for nachos. Made by mashing and cooking pinto beans with seasonings like cumin, garlic, and chili powder, refried beans offer a creamy and flavorful addition to your nacho platter. The smooth and velvety texture of refried beans spreads easily over your chips, ensuring that each bite is coated with their rich flavor. They add a satisfying protein element to your nachos, making them a filling and nutritious vegetarian choice.
Sliced Avocado
Creamy and buttery avocados are a versatile and healthy option for vegetarian nachos. Sliced avocados provide a luscious and velvety texture that pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the chips. The mild and nutty flavors of avocados add a subtle richness to your nachos, creating a smooth and well-rounded taste. Avocados are also packed with nutrients, making them a wholesome and nutritious addition to your nacho platter.
Vegetable Medley
For an explosion of colors, flavors, and textures, a vegetable medley is a fantastic vegetarian option for your nachos. You can choose a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté or grill the vegetables with your favorite seasonings until tender-crisp and layer them on top of your nacho chips. The combination of different vegetables brings a diverse range of flavors and textures to your plate, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Fresh Toppings
Chopped Tomatoes
Fresh and juicy tomatoes are a staple topping for nachos. Their bright and tangy flavor adds a refreshing element to your plate. Chopped tomatoes provide a burst of freshness and a juicy texture that complements the other toppings. The vibrant red color of tomatoes also enhances the visual appeal of your nachos, making them even more inviting and appetizing.
Chopped Cilantro
Cilantro is an herb that adds a distinctive and vibrant flavor to your nachos. Its fresh and citrusy taste provides a delightful burst of herbaceousness. Chopped cilantro gives your nachos a pop of green color, creating a visually appealing contrast that enhances the overall presentation. The aromatic qualities of cilantro elevate the taste profile of your nachos, adding complexity and depth.
Sliced Jalapenos
For those who enjoy a spicy and bold kick, sliced jalapenos are the perfect topping for your nachos. These bright green chili peppers pack a flavorful heat that adds excitement to your plate. The crispy texture of jalapenos enhances the crunchiness of your nacho chips, creating a tantalizing bite. Whether you prefer a mild or fiery heat, sliced jalapenos allow you to customize the spiciness of your nacho experience.
Diced Onions
Diced onions offer a pungent and savory element to your nachos. Whether you prefer red or white onions, their sharp and tangy flavor adds depth and complexity to your plate. Diced onions can be enjoyed raw for a crisp texture and a mild bite or sautéed to enhance their flavor and soften their texture. They bring a satisfying crunch and a burst of aroma to your nacho platter.
Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions offer a tangy and vibrant twist to your nachos. Their sweet and tangy flavor cuts through the richness of the other toppings, creating a refreshing and zesty bite. The pickling process softens the sharpness of the onions, resulting in a milder and more balanced taste. Pickled red onions also add a pop of bright pink color, making your nachos visually appealing and appetizing.
Heat and Spice
Hot Sauce
If you’re a fan of fiery flavors, hot sauce is a must-have condiment for your nachos. From mild to extremely spicy, hot sauce offers a range of heat levels to suit your preferences. Drizzling hot sauce over your nachos provides a tangy and spicy kick that elevates the overall taste experience. The heat from the sauce enhances the flavors of the other toppings, creating a mouthwatering fusion of spice and taste.
Sriracha
Sriracha sauce, known for its vibrant red color and bold flavor, is a popular choice for adding a kick to your nachos. The combination of chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and sugar creates a spicy and slightly sweet taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of your nachos. Drizzle or squeeze some sriracha sauce over your nachos to experience a burst of heat and depth.
Chipotle Peppers
Chipotle peppers are dried and smoked jalapenos that add a unique and smoky flavor to your nachos. Whether you use them in adobo sauce or add them as a topping, chipotle peppers provide a deep and complex taste. Their smokiness adds depth and richness to your nachos, creating a robust and flavorful experience. Chipotle peppers are perfect for those who enjoy a smoky and spicy kick in their nachos.
Cayenne Pepper
If you’re looking to add heat without overpowering the flavors of your nachos, cayenne pepper is a fantastic option. This ground spice offers a mild to medium level of heat, allowing you to customize the spiciness of your dish. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper over your nachos provides a subtle and warm kick that enhances the overall taste. It adds depth and complexity without overwhelming your taste buds.
Red Pepper Flakes
Red pepper flakes offer a delightful burst of heat and flavor to your nachos. These dried and crushed chili peppers provide a fiery punch that wakes up your taste buds. Sprinkling red pepper flakes over your nachos adds a vibrant and spicy element, taking your plate to the next level. Whether you prefer a subtle kick or a fiery explosion, red pepper flakes allow you to control the spiciness according to your liking.
Crunchy Additions
Diced Green Bell Peppers
Diced green bell peppers bring a refreshing and crunchy element to your nachos. Their mild and slightly sweet flavor adds a pleasant crunch to each bite. Diced bell peppers also add a pop of vibrant green color, enhancing the visual appeal of your nacho platter. The crisp texture of the peppers creates a satisfying contrast to the softness of the other toppings, making each bite a delightful sensation.
Sliced Black Olives
Sliced black olives provide a tangy and briny taste to your nachos. Their rich and slightly salty flavor adds depth and complexity, creating a well-rounded bite. Sliced black olives also contribute to the visual appeal of your nachos, with their dark color contrasting beautifully against the other toppings. The smooth and velvety texture of olives adds a luxurious element to your nacho platter.
Crushed Tortilla Chips
For an extra layer of crunchiness, crushed tortilla chips are a fantastic addition to your nachos. By placing a handful of crushed chips on top of your layered nachos, you create a satisfying and crispy texture throughout the dish. The crushed tortilla chips also help to hold the other toppings in place, preventing them from sliding off as you savor each bite. This simple yet effective addition adds a desirable crunch that takes your nachos to a new level of enjoyment.
Radish Slices
For a fresh and peppery bite, radish slices are a delightful addition to your nachos. With their vibrant red color and crunchy texture, radishes provide a refreshing contrast to the other toppings. The subtle heat and crispness of radishes awaken your taste buds, creating a crisp and satisfying experience. Radish slices also add a vibrant touch to your plate, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your nacho platter.
Toasted Pecans
For a unique and nutty twist, toasted pecans are a surprising addition to your nachos. Their rich and buttery flavor adds a touch of indulgence to your plate. Toasted pecans bring a satisfying crunch and elevate the overall taste profile of your nachos. They provide a contrasting texture and a delightful nuttiness that complements the other toppings and sauces. This unexpected addition adds depth and complexity to your nacho experience.
Creamy Complements
Cilantro Lime Crema
Cilantro lime crema is a creamy and tangy sauce that adds a burst of freshness to your nachos. Made from blending sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and a touch of salt, this sauce creates a smooth and velvety texture that coats each chip. The combination of the herbal notes from the cilantro and the zesty tang from the lime creates a vibrant and refreshing taste that enhances the flavors of your nachos.
Ranch Dressing
Ranch dressing is a creamy and versatile option for those who enjoy a milder and familiar flavor. Its cool and tangy taste adds a refreshing element to your nacho platter. Whether you drizzle it on top or use it as a dipping sauce, ranch dressing provides a creamy and indulgent experience. The subtle blend of herbs and spices creates a harmonious taste that complements the other toppings on your nachos.
Blue Cheese Dressing
For those who appreciate bold and pungent flavors, blue cheese dressing is a perfect choice for your nachos. The creamy and tangy taste of blue cheese adds a distinct and intense flavor to your plate. Blue cheese dressing brings a luxurious and indulgent element to your nachos, creating a memorable and sophisticated experience. Each bite is enhanced with the richness and complexity of the blue cheese, providing a gratifying taste sensation.
Sour Cream and Lime
The combination of sour cream and lime creates a simple yet satisfying complement to your nachos. The smooth and creamy texture of sour cream adds a velvety richness to your plate. Squeezing a fresh lime over the sour cream provides a zesty and tangy element that enhances the overall taste. The pairing of sour cream and lime offers a refreshing and light option for those who prefer a more subdued flavor.
Yogurt Sauce
Yogurt sauce offers a healthy and creamy option for your nachos. Made from plain yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of herbs, this sauce is both refreshing and nutritious. The smooth and tangy taste of yogurt complements the other toppings, adding a creamy and velvety texture to your nachos. Yogurt sauce provides a lighter and more wholesome alternative to traditional creamy dressings, making it a guilt-free choice for your nacho platter.
Filling Sides
Spanish Rice
Spanish rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with nachos. Made by cooking long-grain rice with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices, Spanish rice brings a savory and slightly tangy element to your plate. The rich and fragrant flavors of the rice enhance the overall taste profile of your nachos, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Spanish rice provides a filling and hearty side that complements the textures and flavors of your nacho platter.
Mexican Street Corn
Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is a classic side dish that adds a burst of sweetness and smokiness to your nacho experience. Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is coated with a layer of mayo, sprinkled with crumbled cheese, and dusted with chili powder for a flavorful topping. The combination of creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors creates a complex and irresistible taste. Mexican street corn pairs well with the bold flavors of the nachos, adding a unique and satisfying element to your plate.
Fried Plantains
If you’re looking to add a taste of the tropics to your nachos, fried plantains are a fantastic side dish. Plantains, a cousin of bananas, are sliced and deep-fried until golden and caramelized. The result is a sweet and slightly savory treat with a crispy exterior and a soft and tender interior. Fried plantains provide a delightful contrast to the crunchiness of the nachos, adding a touch of indulgence and a burst of tropical flavors.
Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are a common side dish in Mexican cuisine and a nutritious addition to your nacho platter. Cooked until tender and seasoned with spices like cumin, garlic, and chili powder, pinto beans offer a hearty and comforting taste. Their creamy texture and earthy flavor pair well with the other toppings, creating a wholesome and satisfying plate. Pinto beans provide a good source of protein and fiber, making them a filling and nutritious option.
Taco Salad
If you’re looking for a complete meal in one dish, a taco salad is an excellent choice to accompany your nachos. A bed of fresh lettuce is topped with seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, sliced avocados, and tortilla chips for added crunch. The combination of flavors and textures creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Taco salad offers a refreshing and wholesome option that complements the flavors of your nachos.
Refreshing Beverages
Mexican Beer
To enhance the flavors of your nachos and create a festive atmosphere, Mexican beer is the way to go. Whether it’s a light lager, a refreshing pilsner, or a rich amber ale, Mexican beer provides a crisp and flavorful accompaniment to your nacho platter. The cool and bubbly beverage cleanses your palate, allowing you to fully enjoy the diverse flavors of your nachos. Mexican beer adds a celebratory touch to your meal, creating a joyous and convivial experience.
Margaritas
Margaritas, the classic Mexican cocktail, are a delicious and refreshing option to enjoy with your nachos. Made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, margaritas provide a zesty and tangy taste that complements the flavors of your plate. Whether you prefer them on the rocks or blended, margaritas offer a delightful burst of citrus and a pleasant kick of tequila. Sipping on a margarita while enjoying your nachos adds a touch of sophistication and a festive vibe to your meal.
Sangria
For those who prefer a fruity and refreshing beverage, sangria is an excellent choice to pair with your nachos. Made with red or white wine, mixed with a combination of fresh fruit slices, and sweetened with a touch of juice or syrup, sangria offers a delightful blend of flavors. The fruity and aromatic nature of sangria enhances the overall taste experience of your nachos, creating a harmonious combination of tastes. It’s a great option for those who enjoy a light and vibrant companion to their meal.
Agua Fresca
Agua fresca, a traditional Mexican beverage, offers a thirst-quenching and flavorful option for your nachos. Made by blending fresh fruit like watermelon, cantaloupe, or pineapple with water, sugar, and a splash of lime juice, agua fresca provides a refreshing and naturally sweet taste. The fruity and vibrant flavors of the drink complement the other flavors on your plate, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable experience. Agua fresca adds a light and refreshing touch to your meal, making it perfect for hot summer days.
Lemonade
For a classic and timeless beverage, lemonade is a refreshing option to enjoy with your nachos. Whether it’s traditional lemonade or flavored with other fruits like raspberry or strawberry, lemonade offers a cool and tangy taste that cleanses your palate. Its citrusy flavors provide a bright and zesty contrast to the rich and bold flavors of your nachos. Sipping on a glass of lemonade while indulging in your plate creates a balanced and satisfying culinary experience.
In conclusion, a nacho platter offers endless possibilities for customization and creativity. With a wide array of salsas, dips, protein options, vegetarian choices, toppings, spice levels, crunchiness, creamy complements, filling sides, and refreshing beverages, you can create a nacho experience that suits your preferences. Whether you enjoy the classic combination of salsa, guacamole, and melted cheese, or you prefer to explore bolder flavors with jalapenos, chipotle peppers, and blue cheese, there’s a perfect combination waiting to be discovered. So gather your ingredients, layer your nacho chips, and let your taste buds embark on a delightful journey filled with flavors, textures, and satisfaction. Enjoy every crunch, every dip, and every bite!
