A Nacho Bar is perfect to set up for impromptu gatherings, game day parties, or cozy movie nights at home. Customize with your choice of chips, protein, cheese, and toppings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this nachos bar will be a hit!

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Why you’ll love it

• Versatility: One of the best parts about this recipe is its customizable options. Whether you prefer certain chips or protein, this recipe caters to all.
• Protein-Packed: With a range of proteins from ground beef to tofu, these nachos ensure everyone creates a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love cheese? With options ranging from classic shredded cheddar to crumbled feta, there’s a cheesy delight for every palate.
• Party Perfect: A nacho bar is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s a casual, fun, and engaging way to serve food, especially during events like Super Bowl parties or family gatherings.

What is a nacho bar?

A nacho bar is a fun, interactive meal set up. Guests get to play chef and mix and match from the spread. It’s a surefire way to satisfy all tastes and add a playful twist to your event!

Are nachos healthy?

They absolutely can be! With the right choices like chips in moderation, lean proteins, and plenty of veggies, nachos can be a balanced meal. You can even swap chips for a crunchy lettuce base for a taco salad option.

What ingredients do you need?

• Chips: Choose from white corn tortilla chips, blue corn chips, bean chips, grain-free tortilla chips, or sweet potato chips. Remember, the type of chip can influence the overall flavor and healthiness of your nachos.
• Protein: Options include ground beef, shredded chicken, pulled pork, ground turkey, Beyond Steak, various beans, refried beans, tofu, and lentils. The protein not only adds flavor but also makes the nachos more filling and nutritious.
• Cheese: Pick from shredded Mexican blend, cheddar, monterey jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or crumbled feta. Cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and a boost of calcium.
• Toppings: Here’s where you can really get creative. Add guacamole, diced avocado, salsa, queso, Greek yogurt, tomatoes, jalapeños, onions, and more for a burst of flavor and nutrients.

How do you set up a nacho bar?

In true Cheerful Choices fashion… you can customize this nacho bar with all types of ingredients “of your choice”. Here’s how to set up your party-ready nachos line-up.

1. Set out chips of your choice

Start with a diverse selection of chips. Offer everything from traditional corn tortilla chips to unique options like blue corn, sweet potato, or grain-free alternatives. Arrange them in large bowls or platters for easy access.

2. Offer protein of your choice

Next, prepare a variety of cooked and seasoned proteins. Don’t be afraid to take shortcuts and buy pre-cooked options at the store. You can also view this guide for cooking all types of proteins like a pro. Include classics like seasoned ground beef or shredded chicken, and don’t forget plant-based options like beans or tofu. Keep them warm in separate containers so guests can choose their favorite.

3. Arrange various cheeses of your choice

Offer a range of cheeses, from shredded cheddar and Mexican cheese to crumbled feta. You can also think about having a hot, melty queso sauce set up. 

4. Pile on the toppings of your choice

Finally, create a rainbow of toppings—diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, olives, guacamole, sour cream, and more. Organize them in small bowls with spoons or tongs for easy serving, allowing everyone to customize their nacho masterpiece.

Can you set up a nacho bar ahead of time?

Setting up a nacho bar ahead of time is simple! Just prep your toppings—chop veggies, cook meats, and shred cheese if needed. Place everything needed into individual containers and refrigerate. When it’s party time, warm up the necessary items and lay out your fresh toppings and chips for an easy, breezy serving.

Once you have everything prepped, how do you assemble the nachos?

Like all of my other recipes, this Customizable Nacho Bar is completely adaptable. You get to hand pick every single ingredient you want to use. This means it can easily fit different dietary preferences and ingredients on hand. 

We recommend making the nachos in this order for a perfect bite every time. 

1. Start with the chips

Start with a couple of large handfuls of chips per serving—exact measurements aren’t necessary but 2 cups is a good reference.

2. Distribute protein

Add whatever protein you decide on. You could even do a mixture of two different proteins.

3. Add cheese

We like to add the cheese on top of the protein so it melts easier and envelopes all the ingredients under it.

4. Microwave and add toppings

Once everything is nice and melted and warmed through, you can add the cold toppings. Simple as that! This makes 1 individual serving, then you’ll just have everyone repeat to create their unique nacho plate.

Can you bake nachos in the oven?

If you’re aiming to make a larger batch of nachos at once, baking them in the oven is always a good option. Follow the same directions of spreading out your chips, protein, and cheese on a baking sheet, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Recipe tips and tricks

• Serving Tips: Pair these nachos with a refreshing lime margarita or a cool glass of iced tea. They’re great for game days, parties, or a fun family dinner.
• Scaling Tips: Easily double or triple this recipe by adjusting the ingredient amounts proportionally. For larger batches, use an oven to bake the nachos evenly.
• Keeping It Warm: Cooked meats and queso can be kept warm on the stovetop, mini crock pots or transferred to glass containers with a lid.

How do I store leftovers?

Have extras left over from your nacho party? Store in airtight containers for up to 2 days in the fridge. 

Need more help with recipes for your busy schedule?

In my coaching + cooking program, I help busy people with beginner cooking knowledge become confident in the kitchen so that they can enjoy nourishing foods they love and stress less about mealtime. Click here to learn more about this virtual program led by a dietitian.

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Check out these game day recipes too:

• Breadcrumb Baked Mac and Cheese
• Stuffed Bell Peppers
• Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Boats
• Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers