Kamil Perry
There are many ways to melt cheese in the microwave for nachos, and it's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the microwave used. One way is to spread tortilla chips on a microwave-safe plate, heat them for 20-30 seconds, add shredded cheese, and then microwave in 15-20 second increments until the cheese is melted. Another method is to make a cheese sauce by microwaving cheese and milk together for 30 seconds, mixing, and then microwaving for another 30 seconds if the cheese is not completely melted.
Characteristics of melting cheese in the microwave for nachos
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of cheese | Soft or semi-soft melting cheese such as a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack or pepper jack |
| Type of chips | Sturdy chips such as bagged shredded cheese over tortilla chips |
| Toppings | Salsa, avocado, sour cream, fresh cilantro, green onions, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sliced black olives, chopped fresh tomatoes, guacamole, jalapenos |
| Cooking time | 20-30 seconds on high |
| Cooking technique | Spread the cheese evenly on the chips, heat in 15-20 second bursts until melted |
| Serving size | 1 plate |
| Calories | 589kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 45g |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right cheese
The type of cheese you choose for your nachos is important. It is best to use a soft or semi-soft melting cheese. Younger cheeses with a high water content and loose protein structure, such as jack, Longhorn, a young cheddar, queso Oaxaca, or Monterey Jack, melt easily and are not prone to breaking. A mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar is a good option, as Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild flavor, while cheddar adds some sharpness. Other options include American cheese, mozzarella, or pepper jack. You can also use a combination of cheeses, such as cheddar and Monterey Jack, or use processed cheese. It is important to avoid using hard cheeses, as they can seize up in the microwave.
If you are making a cheese sauce for your nachos, you can use slices of processed American cheese or Velveeta, which melt well and result in a smooth sauce. Simply tear the cheese into small pieces, add milk, and microwave until melted. You can also add other ingredients to your cheese sauce, such as butter or sour cream, to enhance the flavor and texture.
When melting cheese in the microwave, it is important to do so in short bursts to avoid scorching. Start with 15-20 seconds and add more time as needed until the cheese is just melted. Be careful not to overcook the cheese, as it can become hard and dry. It is also important to use a microwave-safe dish and to never use a metal pan or dish when melting cheese in the microwave.
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Preparing the nachos for the microwave
Preparing nachos in the microwave is a quick and easy way to satisfy your cravings. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare delicious, gooey nachos in just a few minutes:
Ingredients:
- Tortilla chips (thick-cut, freshly fried corn chips are recommended)
- Cheese (soft or semi-soft melting cheese such as Monterey Jack, cheddar, Longhorn, young cheddar, or queso Oaxaca)
- Toppings of your choice (e.g. salsa, avocado, sour cream, jalapenos, black olives, chopped tomatoes, guacamole, cilantro, green onions, or shredded lettuce)
Instructions:
Start by spreading the tortilla chips in an even layer on a microwave-safe plate. Make sure to use a microwave-safe dish and avoid any metal plates or dishes. You can also use a paper plate with a paper plate holder. This first step is important as it toasts the chips and warms them up. Microwave the chips on high for 20-30 seconds.
Next, add your cheese. Shredded cheese works well, and it's important to spread it out evenly across the chips. Avoid piling the cheese in the centre, as you want to ensure it melts evenly. You can also mix the cheese with a little butter or sour cream before adding it to the chips.
Now, it's time to melt that cheese! Place the plate back into the microwave and heat in 15-20 second increments on high. Keep a close eye on the nachos, as microwave ovens vary, and you don't want the cheese to burn. Remove the nachos from the microwave as soon as the cheese is melted.
Add your chosen toppings to the nachos. Sturdier toppings like salsa, jalapenos, and avocado can be added first and warmed through with another quick blast in the microwave (15 seconds should do it). Finally, add toppings like sour cream, fresh herbs, or anything else you fancy, and serve immediately.
There you have it! A quick, easy, and delicious plate of nachos, perfect for a snack or an appetizer. Enjoy!
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Heating the nachos
Next, add your cheese. Soft or semi-soft melting cheeses with a high water content, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, Longhorn, young cheddar, or queso Oaxaca, are best. Spread the cheese out evenly across the chips. Avoid using hard cheeses, as these can seize up in the microwave. You can also mix the cheese with a little butter or sour cream before adding it to the chips.
Now, it's time to microwave. Start with 20-30 seconds on high. You may need to do this in 15-20 second bursts to avoid overcooking the cheese. Keep an eye on the nachos as they cook, as microwave ovens vary dramatically. Once the cheese is melted, add any sturdier toppings, such as salsa, jalapenos, or avocado, and microwave again for 15 seconds.
Finally, add any fresh toppings, such as sour cream, herbs, sliced avocado, or sliced green onions, and serve immediately. Enjoy your nachos!
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Adding toppings
Once you've melted your cheese in the microwave, it's time to add your toppings. The beauty of nachos is that you can add whatever toppings you like, but here are some ideas to get you started.
If you're a fan of spicy food, consider adding some sliced jalapenos, either on their own or pickled. You could also add some salsa, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make your nachos soggy. If you're looking for something a little cooler, try adding some sliced avocado or guacamole. For some extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche.
If you want to add some extra protein to your nachos, why not try adding some refried beans, chilli con carne, or shredded chicken? If you're a vegetarian, you could add some cubed tofu or Quorn pieces. For some extra texture and crunch, sprinkle on some chopped onions, green onions, or spring onions. You could also add some sliced black olives, chopped fresh tomatoes, or shredded lettuce.
If you're feeling creative, you could even make your own cheese sauce to pour over your nachos. Simply tear some cheese slices into small pieces, place them in a microwave-safe dish, and pour a little milk over them. Microwave for 30 seconds, then mix with a fork. If the cheese hasn't completely melted, put it back in the microwave for another 30 seconds. You can also add some spices or herbs to your sauce to give it a little extra kick.
Finally, don't forget to add some fresh herbs before serving. Cilantro is a great option for nachos, but you could also add some parsley, chives, or basil. Whatever toppings you choose, the key is to be creative and have fun!
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Serving the nachos
The best type of cheese for melting on nachos is a mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar. Monterey Jack melts beautifully and has a mild flavour, while a small amount of cheddar adds sharpness. You can also use American cheese in a pinch, but its texture can become weird once it cools down. Other good melting cheeses include pepper jack, Longhorn, young cheddar, and queso Oaxaca. Avoid using hard cheeses as they can seize up in the microwave.
If you want to add extra toppings, remove the nachos from the microwave once the cheese is melted. Add your toppings and then return the nachos to the microwave for another 15 seconds. Suitable toppings include:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Homemade pico de gallo
- Sliced black olives
- Chopped fresh tomatoes
- Sliced avocado
- Pickled jalapeno
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced green onions
- Shredded lettuce
If you want to make a cheese sauce, you can do so in the microwave in under a minute. Simply tear slices of processed American cheese or Velveeta into small pieces, put them in a microwave-safe dish, and pour milk over them. Microwave for 30 seconds and then mix with a fork. If the cheese isn't completely melted, microwave for another 30 seconds. You can keep the sauce warm in a fondue pot or a tiny crockpot.
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Frequently asked questions
Spread tortilla chips on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30 seconds. Remove the chips and add cheese, spreading it evenly. Microwave in 20-second increments until the cheese melts.
Soft or semi-soft cheeses with a high water content are best, such as Monterey Jack, Longhorn, young cheddar, or queso Oaxaca.
Heat the cheese in 15-20 second bursts and keep a close eye on it. As soon as the cheese is melted, remove the plate from the microwave.
