Properly browned ground beef creates the foundation for deeply savory nachos with crisp edges and rich beef flavor in every bite. Charred poblanos, melted cheese, and fresh toppings balance the richness while the cast iron keeps everything hot and crunchy straight to the table.

Ingredient List

• 2 lb ground beef
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Nachos

• 1 large bag tortilla chips
• 2 poblano peppers
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup crema or sour cream
• 1/2 cup cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Process

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Char poblano peppers directly over flame or under broiler until blackened. Peel, remove seeds, and slice thinly.
3. Heat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil.
4. Add ground beef and cook 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart until deeply browned and crisp in spots.
5. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
6. Layer tortilla chips, beef, poblanos, and cheeses in cast iron skillet.
7. Bake 8–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
8. Finish with jalapeño, avocado, crema, cilantro, and lime wedges.
9. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.