Save Crispy, cheesy nachos made with affordable ingredients for a quick and satisfying snack or meal.
I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the pot I use for cozy one-pot meals and small-batch recipes, so I wanted to quickly share it here.
This is the Martha Stewart heart-shaped enameled cast iron Dutch oven (2-quart). It’s one of those pieces I reach for constantly when testing soups, stews, baked casseroles, and smaller comfort-food recipes.
- Heats evenly with no hot spots (huge for slow cooking)
- Non-reactive enamel interior — no seasoning required
- Perfect size for small households or side dishes
- Sturdy handles, easy to move from oven to table
It’s also a favorite with home cooks — 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,900 reviews — and Amazon often has a coupon available, depending on color and size.
👉 Check current price, colors, and coupon on Amazon
(Affiliate link — if you choose to buy, it helps support this recipe blog at no extra cost to you ❤️)
Dollar Store Nachos became my go-to snack when I needed something delicious without spending much. I love how simple and customizable this recipe is for everyone at home.
Ingredients
- Tortilla chips: 1 (10 oz) bag, forms the crunchy base
- Refried beans: 1 (15 oz) can, warmed and spread over chips
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies: 1 (10 oz) can, drained
- Sliced jalapeños: 1 (4 oz) can, optional for heat
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: 2 cups, for cheesy topping
- Jarred salsa: 1/2 cup, for topping
- Sour cream: 1/2 cup, served on top
- Sliced black olives: 1/4 cup, optional
- Green onions: 2, sliced, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange:
- Spread tortilla chips evenly on a baking sheet or oven-safe platter.
- Warm beans:
- Microwave refried beans for 1 minute and dollop or spread over chips.
- Layer toppings:
- Sprinkle drained diced tomatoes with green chilies over beans and chips.
- Add cheese and jalapeños:
- Top generously with shredded cheese and sliced jalapeños if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish toppings:
- Remove from oven and top with salsa, sour cream, black olives, and green onions as desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately while hot.
Save My kids always get excited seeing nachos come out of the oven. It's a meal that brings the family to the table fast and happy.
Make It Your Own
Swap toppings like using pepper jack cheese or adding fresh chopped cilantro for more flavor. Experiment with different salsas or beans based on taste.
Serving Suggestions
Pair nachos with lime soda or a cold light beer, and add sides like chopped salad or guacamole to round out the meal.
Ingredient Tips
Choose sturdy chips that stand up to baking. For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Save
Dollar Store Nachos are perfect for low-cost weeknights and surprise gatherings. Enjoy every cheesy bite while it's hot!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, cheddar, Mexican blend, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack add various levels of spice and creaminess.
- → How can I add protein?
Try canned chicken, seasoned ground beef, or use vegetarian refried beans for a heartier plate.
- → What chips work best?
Tortilla chips are ideal, but you can use any sturdy chip that crisps well in the oven.
- → Which toppings can I mix and match?
Customize with salsa, sour cream, black olives, green onions, jalapeños, or even avocado slices.
- → How do I avoid soggy nachos?
Bake briefly at high heat, add wet toppings right before serving, and use thick, sturdy chips for best results.
- → Are these vegetarian?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian refried beans and skip meat options in the assembly.