These sloppy joe nachos are a bold and satisfying twist on two classic comfort foods. Combining the rich, saucy flavors of sloppy joes with the crunch of loaded nachos, this dish is the perfect centerpiece for game day gatherings, casual parties, or a fun weeknight dinner. Every bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and bold, savory flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe takes everything you love about sloppy joes—tender ground beef, tangy sauce, and hearty satisfaction—and layers it over crispy tortilla chips with gooey melted cheese. Finished with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, pickles, jalapeños, and a drizzle of sour cream, it’s a crowd-pleasing snack or meal that comes together quickly and disappears even faster. It’s customizable, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a group.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, diced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz tortilla chips
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup sliced pickles
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sour cream (for drizzling)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the diced onion for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and develop flavor.
- Spread the tortilla chips out evenly on a large baking sheet. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture over the chips.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and top with shredded lettuce, sliced pickles, and jalapeños.
- Drizzle with sour cream just before serving. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Calories per serving: 430 kcal
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add hot sauce or chipotle peppers in adobo to the sloppy joe mixture for a spicy kick.
- Different Proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives in place of beef.
- Cheese Swap: Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Extra Toppings: Try diced tomatoes, avocado, chopped red onion, or a sprinkle of cilantro.
- Mini Nachos: Use individual chip portions for a fun, handheld appetizer option.
Storage/Reheating
Sloppy joe nachos are best enjoyed fresh, as the chips can become soggy if stored.
If you have leftovers, store the meat mixture and toppings separately from the chips.
Reheat the sloppy joe meat in a skillet or microwave until hot, then reassemble the nachos with fresh chips and toppings before serving.
FAQs
Can I make these nachos ahead of time?
You can prepare the sloppy joe mixture in advance and reheat it before assembling the nachos. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.
What kind of tortilla chips should I use?
Use sturdy, thick-cut tortilla chips that can hold up under the weight of the toppings without becoming soggy.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, simply scale up all the ingredients and use a larger sheet pan or multiple pans to serve a crowd.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s a fun, approachable dish with flavors kids typically love. Just omit the jalapeños for a milder version.
Can I use a different sauce for the meat?
Yes, barbecue sauce or a spicy ketchup blend can be substituted for a unique twist.
Are these nachos gluten-free?
If using certified gluten-free tortilla chips and sauces, this dish can be made gluten-free.
Can I add beans or veggies to the meat?
Yes, black beans, corn, or bell peppers can be added to the sloppy joe mixture for added nutrition and texture.
What sides go well with sloppy joe nachos?
Serve with coleslaw, guacamole, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese shreds and a plant-based sour cream alternative.
What if I don’t like pickles?
You can leave them out or substitute with diced tomatoes or avocado slices for a fresh, tangy contrast.
Conclusion
Sloppy joe nachos are the ultimate fusion of comfort food and party snack, delivering bold flavors, melty cheese, and crispy chips in every bite. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for game days, family nights, and everything in between. Serve it hot and enjoy the satisfying crunch and savory goodness.
Print
Sloppy Joe Nachos
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Sloppy Joe Nachos combine all the bold, savory flavors of a classic sloppy joe with crispy tortilla chips and gooey melted cheddar cheese. Topped with lettuce, pickles, jalapeños, and a tangy sour cream drizzle, they’re the ultimate game day or party appetizer that’s ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 small onion, diced
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1 pound ground beef
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1/2 cup ketchup
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon yellow mustard
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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8 oz tortilla chips
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup shredded lettuce
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1/4 cup sliced pickles
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1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup sour cream (for drizzling)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thick and flavorful.
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Spread tortilla chips on a large baking sheet. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture evenly over the chips.
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Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
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Remove from oven and top with shredded lettuce, pickles, and jalapeños.
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Drizzle with sour cream and serve immediately.
Notes
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Customize with toppings like diced tomatoes, red onion, or avocado.
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For a spicier kick, add hot sauce to the beef mixture.
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Easily double the recipe for a crowd!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American Fusion
