Hey there, foodie friend! If you're craving something crispy, cheesy, and downright delicious, then you need to try this steak nachos recipe! Perfect for game nights, family hangouts, or even a bold breakfast (yes, nachos for breakfast—why not?!), this dish is loaded with flavor. Picture this: crunchy tortilla chips, juicy, seasoned steak, melty cheese, and all the toppings your heart desires—guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, you name it! Want to make it extra epic? Toss on some black beans, a drizzle of sour cream, or even a fried egg for that ultimate breakfast nacho experience. Fast, easy, and ridiculously tasty—what’s not to love? Give it a try and thank me later!
Why You Will Love This Steak Nachos Recipe
Because nachos for breakfast? Absolutely! This creative twist on the classic steak nachos recipe brings together the best of both worlds—crispy tortilla chips, juicy steak, gooey melted cheese, and delicious breakfast favorites like eggs and avocado. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for weekend brunch, a fun "breakfast for dinner" night, or even an indulgent snack.
What makes this dish extra special? It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for sharing! Whether you load it up with crispy bacon, black beans, fresh salsa, or a drizzle of hot sauce, you can easily make it your own based on whatever ingredients you have on hand. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a hearty and energizing way to start (or end) your day. So if you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and easy meal that’s sure to impress, this loaded steak nachos recipe is a must-try!
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Steak Nachos Recipe Ingredients
- Flank or skirt steak, thinly sliced (leftover steak works perfectly)
- Olive oil
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortilla chips (about 8 oz)
- Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese (the cheese melts better when freshly shredded)
- Eggs
- Milk (for scrambling eggs)
- Bell pepper, diced (adds color and crunch)
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Jalapeño, seeds removed and sliced (optional for heat)
- Diced (adds creaminess)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Green onions, sliced
- Sour cream and salsa for serving
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prepare Your Steak
- If using raw steak, slice it thinly against the grain. This ensures tender, easy-to-eat pieces.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced steak to the spice mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the seasoned steak and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until just cooked through. Don't overcook – slightly underdone is better as the steak will continue cooking in the oven.
- Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Scramble the Eggs
- In the same skillet (to capture the steak flavors), reduce heat to medium-low.
- Whisk together 4 eggs and ¼ cup milk in a bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook, stirring gently, until soft curds form but eggs are still slightly wet (they'll finish cooking in the oven).
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble Your Nachos
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- On a large, rimmed baking sheet, spread out the tortilla chips in an even layer.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese over the chips.
- Distribute the cooked steak pieces and scrambled eggs evenly over the chips.
- Add the diced bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño (if using).
- Top with the remaining cheese.
Bake to Perfection
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and slightly bubbly.
- For extra-crispy edges, turn on the broiler for the last minute – but watch carefully to prevent burning!
Add Fresh Toppings
- Remove the nachos from the oven and immediately top with diced avocado, fresh cilantro, and sliced green onions.
- Serve with sour cream and salsa on the side.
- Step 1: Prepare Your Steak
Slice the steak thinly, season with spices, and cook in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes.
- Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Whisk eggs with milk, then cook in the same skillet over medium-low heat until soft curds form.
- Step 3: Assemble Your Nachos
Layer tortilla chips, cheese, steak, eggs, and veggies on a baking sheet, then top with more cheese.
- Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts and turns bubbly.
- Step 5: Add Fresh Toppings
Top with avocado, cilantro, and green onions, then serve with sour cream and salsa.
Pro Tips for the Ultimate Steak Nachos Recipe
- Layer properly: The secret to the best loaded nachos recipe is proper layering – chips first, then cheese, then toppings, then more cheese to "glue" everything together.
- Use thick chips: Restaurant-style tortilla chips hold up better under toppings than thin varieties.
- Don't skimp on cheese: For true loaded nachos with cheese sauce vibes, be generous with the cheese – it's what holds everything together.
- Cook proteins first: Always cook steak, ground beef, or other proteins before adding to nachos.
- Watch the oven closely: The difference between perfect and burnt nachos can be less than a minute.
Substitutions
- Low-carb option: For those wanting keto nachos, bell pepper "chips" can replace tortilla chips
- Protein options: If you don't have steak, try using ground beef for a beef loaded nachos variation, or leftover roast chicken
- Vegetarian version: Replace the steak with black beans or soyrizo
- Cheese options: Pepper jack adds heat, while a mixture with Monterey Jack makes the best cheese sauce for nachos
Steak Nachos Recipe Variations
Tex-Mex Morning Nachos
Add scrambled eggs with chorizo, black beans, and pepper jack cheese for a spicy Mexican steak nachos variation.
Breakfast Taco Nachos
Top with scrambled eggs, bacon bits, and breakfast sausage crumbles for a morning twist on classic taco nachos ground beef style.
Healthy Morning Nachos
Use baked tortilla chips, lean steak, egg whites, and load up on fresh veggies for healthy nachos that don't sacrifice flavor.
Breakfast Hash Nachos
Add diced breakfast potatoes to the mix before baking for a hearty breakfast hash-inspired version.
Equipment
- Large rimmed baking sheet: Allows for good chip distribution and easy serving
- Cast iron skillet: Perfect for cooking the steak with excellent heat retention
- Box grater: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties
- Tongs: For easy serving without breaking the chips
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Fridge Storage
While these nachos are best eaten immediately after assembly, you can prep components ahead of time:
- Cook steak and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
- Chop vegetables and store in airtight containers for up to 3 days
- Shred cheese and store in a zip-top bag for up to 5 days
Making Ahead
- For a quick morning assembly:
- In the morning, simply assemble and bake for 5-7 minutes
- Pre-cook your steak the night before and store in the refrigerator
- Chop all vegetables and store separately
The Secret to Restaurant-Quality Steak Nachos at Home
The real secret to making this simple steak nachos recipe taste just like something you'd order at a restaurant? It’s all in the steak marinade! Even if you're short on time, a quick 15-minute soak in a flavorful blend of lime juice, soy sauce, and spices can work wonders, infusing the steak with a delicious, carne asada-style taste. The acidity from the lime juice helps tenderize the meat, while the soy sauce adds depth and richness, making every bite juicy, savory, and absolutely mouthwatering. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in elevating the flavor of your nachos.
But if you really want to take things to the next level, let your steak marinate overnight for an even deeper, more intense flavor. The extra time allows the steak to fully absorb all those delicious seasonings, resulting in meat that’s even more tender, juicy, and packed with bold, zesty goodness. Once it hits the grill or skillet, you’ll be rewarded with perfectly charred, flavorful steak that makes these nachos truly unforgettable. Whether you're making them for a fun snack, a hearty meal, or even a creative breakfast nachos twist, this simple marinade trick will have everyone coming back for more!
FAQ
What type of steak is good for nachos?
Flank steak, skirt steak, and sirloin are ideal for nachos. These cuts offer the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness when sliced thinly against the grain. Flank and skirt steak have rich, beefy flavor that stands up well to the bold toppings, while sirloin provides good texture without breaking the bank. For extra-tender results, marinate your steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
What is the secret to making good nachos?
The secret to making good nachos lies in proper layering and chip quality. Start with thick, sturdy tortilla chips that can support toppings without breaking. Layer ingredients strategically: chips first, then a layer of cheese, followed by toppings, and finally more cheese on top. Always bake until the cheese is just melted, not burnt. Keep wet ingredients like salsa, sour cream, and guacamole on the side for serving to prevent soggy chips. Most importantly, ensure even distribution of toppings so every chip gets some flavor.
Do you put meat or cheese first on nachos?
Always put a layer of cheese first, directly on the chips, before adding meat or other toppings. This creates a protective "seal" that helps prevent the chips from becoming soggy. Then add your meat and other toppings, followed by another layer of cheese on top. This double-cheese approach ensures everything stays in place when baked and gives you that perfect, Instagram-worthy cheese pull when serving.
What is the best cheese for melting nachos?
The best cheese for melting on nachos is a combination of cheeses that includes at least one high-moisture variety. Monterey Jack offers excellent meltability with a mild flavor that complements other ingredients. Medium or sharp cheddar provides great flavor but doesn't melt as smoothly on its own. For the perfect melt, use a blend of 50% Monterey Jack with 50% cheddar. Other excellent melting cheeses include American, Colby, Pepper Jack (for heat), or Oaxaca cheese for authentic Mexican flavor. Always shred your cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Why You Need to Try These Breakfast Steak Nachos
Whether you're searching for a show-stopping weekend brunch idea or a fun, unexpected twist on "breakfast for dinner," this steak nachos recipe is here to deliver big flavors with minimal effort. With crispy tortilla chips, juicy steak, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, every bite is packed with deliciousness. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends—though, let’s be honest, you might want to keep it all to yourself!
So why not shake up your usual breakfast routine with this flavor-packed morning fiesta? Load it up with eggs, avocado, salsa, or your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours. And if you’re looking for more high-protein, satisfying breakfast ideas, be sure to check out our High-Protein Breakfast Burritos Recipe or our Chicken and Cheese Breakfast Quesadilla Recipe for even more delicious ways to start your day. Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out!
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Perfect Steak Nachos Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet For assembling and baking nachos
- 1 Cast iron skillet For cooking steak and eggs
- Mixing bowls For seasoning steak and whisking eggs
- 1 Wooden spoon For stirring eggs
- 1 Chef’s knife For slicing steak and chopping toppings
Ingredients
- 8 oz Flank or skirt steak Thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil For cooking steak
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder Adds spice
- ½ teaspoon Cumin Enhances flavor
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder Adds depth
- Salt & pepper For seasoning
- 8 cups Tortilla chips Sturdy,restaurant-style
- 1 ½ cups Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese Freshly shredded
- 4 Eggs Whisked
- ¼ cup Milk For scrambling eggs
- 1 Bell pepper Diced
- ½ Red onion Finely chopped
- 1 Jalapeño Sliced,optional for heat
- 1 Avocado Diced
- ¼ cup Cilantro Chopped
- ¼ cup Green onions Sliced
- Sour cream For serving
- Salsa For serving
Instructions
- Slice and season steak, then cook in a skillet for 2-3 minutes.
- Whisk eggs with milk, cook in the same skillet until soft.
- Spread chips on a baking sheet, layer with cheese, steak, eggs, and veggies.
- Bake at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until cheese melts.
- Top with avocado, cilantro, and green onions, serve with sour cream and salsa.
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