Blackened Shrimp Nachos Recipe (2024)

FAQs

How do you make loaded nachos not soggy? ›

* Bring refrigerated toppings to room temperature before piling them onto the warm chips. * To prevent the chips from getting soggy, sprinkle grated or crumbled cheese on top and bake them in the oven for a few minutes. When melted, the cheese will act as a buffer between the chips and toppings.

Spread out a layer of chips, followed by an even distribution of meat and beans, then lots--I mean lots--of cheese. Complete coverage guarantees you don't commit the cardinal sin of nacho making: the sad chip with no topping. Repeat until you have an impressive tray a few layers high, then bake.

Spread 5 cups chips in a 12-inch heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron). Top with 1 cup chili, then half the beans and 1 cup cheese. Layer with remaining 5 cups chips, 1 cup chili, remaining beans, and 1 cup cheese. Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, 5 to 7 minutes.

Limiting the number of ingredients baked with the chips is the key to crispiness. Top chips with no more than two or three toppings. Choose from items such as black beans, refried beans, chopped grilled chicken, seasoned ground beef (browned and drained), or chopped jalapenos.

Sharp cheddar gets my vote for nacho cheese. It melts smoothly without being stringy, while having a nice flavorful punch. You can use mild or medium cheddar if you prefer, but the flavor will be a bit blander. Monterey jack and pepper jack also melt really well into sauces and make a great white nacho cheese sauce.

Here's a fact: If you put a plate of tortilla chips topped with cheese in the microwave and zap them until the cheese melts, the cheese will melt way before the tortilla chips have the chance to take on any color or toasted flavor. With nachos baked in the oven, the chips toast while the cheese melts.

Start with a base of tortilla chips, cheese, salsa, jalapeño, and any warm fillings like meats and veggies. Once the cheese melts, remove from the oven, add another layer, and repeat. This extra step ensures your nachos are well-covered and evenly baked from top to bottom.

Bake, don't broil. Some nacho recipes will call for broiling, but we usually recommend baking instead. It may take a bit longer, but the cheese will melt more evenly, and the toppings will warm up thoroughly this way. If you do choose to broil, be sure to keep a close eye on the nachos, as they can burn quickly.

How do you keep leftover nachos from getting soggy? ›

Then, cover the skillet with aluminum foil. This helps your nachos heat up evenly and come out perfectly crispy. If you don't have a big enough skillet to spread your nachos in a thin layer, reheat them in batches. Trying to cook them in a thick layer can cause them to come out soggy instead of crispy.

Consistency. If too runny, add an extra ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and a bit more evaporated milk. Do not use pre-shredded cheese as it is coated to keep it from being sticky and inhibits its ability to melt.

Moisture and air are what cause tortilla chips to go soggy and stale, so you'll want to keep them sealed in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot, away from any sunlight.