Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese
When it comes to the ultimate crowd-pleaser, it’s hard to beat a plate of Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese. This dish is not only delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to combine flavors and textures into one comforting meal. Imagine crispy tortilla chips piled high with seasoned ground turkey, creamy black bean dip, gooey cheese, fresh pico de gallo, and bright cilantro. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a movie night, or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, these loaded nachos will steal the spotlight.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese are a hit among home cooks for a reason. They’re incredibly versatile, easy to make, and can be customized to suit any palate. The lean turkey adds protein while keeping the dish light, and the black bean dip gives a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the crunch of tortilla chips. Not to mention, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover toppings you might have in your fridge. It’s an all-in-one meal that satisfies cravings without weighing you down.
What to Buy
To make these delicious Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 oz baked tortilla chips
- 8 oz 99% lean ground turkey breast
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fat-free spicy black bean dip (like Desert Pepper Trading Company Black Bean Dip or Trader Joe’s)
- 1 1/3 cup reduced fat Mexican cheese blend
- 2 cups pico de gallo
- 1/2 cup light sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, sliced thin (optional for topping)
Hardware & Gadgets
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools ready:
- Large skillet – for browning the ground turkey.
- Oven-safe baking dish – to layer and bake the nachos.
- Spatula – for stirring and serving.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate measurements.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping toppings like cilantro and jalapeños.
Stepwise Method: Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Turkey
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 99% lean ground turkey breast. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Turkey
Once the turkey is cooked through, sprinkle in the cumin, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine the spices with the turkey, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the turkey is finishing up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your nachos are perfectly crispy and melted when they come out.
Step 4: Layer the Nachos
In an oven-safe baking dish, spread the baked tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. Spoon the fat-free spicy black bean dip over the chips, followed by the seasoned ground turkey.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the reduced fat Mexican cheese blend generously over the top of the nacho layers. Make sure to cover the turkey and bean dip well for that melty goodness.
Step 6: Bake the Nachos
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 7: Top with Fresh Ingredients
Once the nachos are out of the oven, top them with pico de gallo, a drizzle of light sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. If you like a bit of heat, add the thinly sliced jalapeño on top as well.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese immediately. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy this delicious creation!
Swap Guide
Feel free to customize your Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese by swapping out ingredients based on your preferences:
- Ground turkey can be replaced with ground chicken or lean beef.
- For a vegetarian option, use black beans or lentils instead of ground turkey.
- Try different cheese blends like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Fresh salsa can be used instead of pico de gallo for a different flavor profile.
- Guacamole is a great alternative to sour cream for added creaminess.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
When preparing Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese, consider these points to ensure a perfect dish:
- Do not overload the nachos with too many toppings before baking, as it can lead to soggy chips.
- Make sure to evenly spread the toppings to ensure every chip gets the love it deserves.
- Keep an eye on the nachos while they bake to avoid burning the cheese.
- Allow the nachos to cool for a minute before serving to avoid burns from hot toppings.
Storage Pro Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare with this dish), here’s how to store them:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven for best results, as microwaving can make the chips soggy.
- If you’re planning to make these ahead, keep the ingredients separate until you’re ready to bake.
Your Top Questions
Can I make Loaded Nachos in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.
What can I use instead of black bean dip?
If you don’t have black bean dip, you can use refried beans or even a layer of mashed avocado for a creamy alternative.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, use a spicier cheese blend, add diced jalapeños before baking, or top with hot sauce after baking.
Can I freeze Loaded Nachos?
It’s not recommended to freeze nachos once assembled, as the chips can become soggy. However, you can freeze individual components and assemble them fresh when ready to cook.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have the complete guide to making Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get started! This dish is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these loaded nachos promise to deliver satisfaction in every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and savor the flavor!
Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 99% lean ground turkey breast. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the turkey is cooked through, sprinkle in the cumin, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine the spices with the turkey, allowing the flavors to meld for another 2-3 minutes.
- While the turkey is finishing up, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your nachos are perfectly crispy and melted when they come out.
- In an oven-safe baking dish, spread the baked tortilla chips evenly across the bottom. Spoon the fat-free spicy black bean dip over the chips, followed by the seasoned ground turkey.
- Sprinkle the reduced fat Mexican cheese blend generously over the top of the nacho layers. Make sure to cover the turkey and bean dip well for that melty goodness.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once the nachos are out of the oven, top them with pico de gallo, a drizzle of light sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. If you like a bit of heat, add the thinly sliced jalapeño on top as well.
- Serve your Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese immediately. Gather your friends and family, and enjoy this delicious creation!
Notes
- Do not overload the nachos with too many toppings before baking to avoid soggy chips.
- Evenly spread toppings to ensure every chip gets the love it deserves.
- Keep an eye on the nachos while they bake to avoid burning the cheese.
- Allow the nachos to cool for a minute before serving to avoid burns from hot toppings.
