Snacks To Elevate Your Nacho And Cheese Experience

Nachos are a delicious snack, but what do you serve on the side? There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you're looking for something creamy, crunchy, or a little bit of both. A vibrant, homemade salsa is a perfect partner for nachos, adding a refreshing kick to cut through the richness of the cheese. Guacamole is another must-have, with its creamy texture and rich flavour, providing a delicious contrast to the crunchy chips. If you're looking for something a little different, why not try cream cheese gravy or sloppy joes? For a classic side, refried beans are a great option, pairing smoothly with the nachos. Whatever you choose, these sides will turn a simple snack into a feast!

Salsa

Pineapple salsa is another option, bringing a sweet and spicy element to the table. The juicy pineapple chunks, combined with red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño, create a refreshing and zesty salsa that perfectly complements the nachos. It adds a fruity twist and a tropical flair to the snack.

In addition, salsa is a healthy option for those watching their weight or wanting a lighter snack. It is typically low in calories and fat, providing a nutritious and flavorful alternative to other dips or sides.

Lastly, salsa is a versatile topping that can be used on other dishes as well. It pairs well with tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, making it a multi-purpose side dish that can enhance the flavor of various Mexican-inspired meals.

Guacamole

There are many different ways to make guacamole, but a simple recipe includes mashed avocado, lime juice, salt, pico de gallo or chopped tomatoes and onions, bell peppers, and cilantro. You can also add garlic and jalapenos for an extra kick. It is important to have a good lime to avocado ratio, as this brings out a fresh taste and adds to the creaminess of the guacamole.

For a fun twist, you can make a DIY guacamole bar and let your guests taste-test different options.

Cream cheese gravy

Ingredients:

• Cream cheese
• Milk
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is warm.
• Add the cream cheese to the milk and whisk until it is fully melted and combined.
• Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture has a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Serve warm with nachos.

This cream cheese gravy can also be used as a dip for other snacks, such as tortilla chips, or as a topping for baked potatoes. It is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal and is sure to impress your guests or family.

In addition to cream cheese gravy, there are several other side snacks that go well with nachos and cheese. These include:

• Salsa: A vibrant, homemade salsa made with ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeño adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese.
• Guacamole: The creamy texture and flavour of avocados blended with lime juice, onions, and cilantro create a delicious staple side for nachos.
• Sloppy Joes: These bring a hearty and savoury element to the table with their sweet and tangy beef mixture.
• Refried beans: A classic side that pairs well with nachos, offering a smooth, creamy texture and comforting flavour.

Sloppy Joes

Ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Green bell pepper
• Ketchup
• Brown sugar
• Mustard
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Hamburger buns
• Olive oil

Optional Ingredients:

• Vinegar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Red pepper flakes
• Chilli powder
• Minced garlic

Instructions:

• Cook the ground beef, onion, and green bell pepper in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Drain any excess liquids, then stir in the remaining ingredients (except the hamburger buns).
• Simmer the mixture for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Divide the meat mixture evenly among the hamburger buns and serve.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use lean ground beef to avoid having to drain the meat after cooking.
• Choose cheaper, less sturdy hamburger buns to absorb the excess liquid.
• Overfill the buns so that some meat spills out, and you can scoop it up with potato chips!
• Make ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• If the sauce is too dry, add a little water to loosen it up.
• For a less "sloppy" experience, serve the mixture in a hot dog bun instead of a hamburger bun.

Refried beans

For example, in a recipe for vegetarian nachos, refried beans are included alongside black beans, tortilla chips, cheese, avocado, tomato, corn kernels, and pickled jalapeños. The dish is baked in the oven for about 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted.

Another recipe for "Easy Bean and Cheese Nachos" includes layering tortilla chips with refried beans and sprinkling them with cheese. The dish is baked in the oven for about 5 minutes and then topped with salsa.

Frequently asked questions