Nacho night is always a hit at my house because it’s not just about snacking, it’s such a fun experience!
Building the perfect plate of nachos feels like creating a masterpiece. I layer the chips and then go wild with the toppings, mixing all sorts of flavors and textures. It’s really about making each bite perfect. From classic toppings like cheese and salsa, to more unique flavors like pulled pork and pineapple, the possibilities are endless
What I enjoy most is how everyone can make their nachos just the way they like, whether it’s lots of cheese and jalapeños or piled high with guacamole and sour cream. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about grabbing a chip that’s loaded just right. Nachos always bring smiles and make sure everyone leaves happy and full.
It’s no surprise that you’ll find nachos featured on almost every restaurant’s appetizer menu. They’re just irresistible! Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a family movie night, nachos are my go to snack that never disappoints.
That’s why we have compiled this list of Nacho Toppings for you. You’ll find all of your favorites, plus some unique ideas. Go through all of these great toppings, and build your ultimate pile of nachos!
First up, let’s start with the base – tortilla chips. You can’t have nachos without them! But why stick to just plain corn chips? Mix it up with blue corn or multigrain chips for added flavor and texture.
The BEST Nacho Toppings:
1. Cheese
Well, of course! After the tortilla chips, cheese is the most important ingredient for any good pile of nachos.
Cheddar, Monterrey Jack and pepper jack are some of my top contenders, but don’t be afraid to experiment!
2. Ground Beef
Ground beef is a very common nacho topping, and one of my favorites.
It’s also very easy. Just give it a quick browning in a skillet, add a little seasoning, and you’re all set!
3. Pico de Gallo
A good salsa is one of the keys to great nachos. If you can spare about five minutes, you can easily whip up my fresh homemade Pico de Gallo.
4. Guacamole
Guacamole is another condiment that goes great with on nachos. Try our Venezuelan Guac, which is a great twist on the traditional recipes.
5. Barbacoa Beef
I love to pile our homemade Barbacoa Beef on nachos!
Make a big batch in the crockpot, it’s super versatile and you can use it for tacos, burritos and bowl meals, in addition to your nachos.
6. Black Beans
Beans are a great topping for nachos, and out of all varieties my top choice is black beans.
They’re also a good protein source if you are looking to make meatless nachos.
7. Chicken
Chicken is another popular choice. Grill it, bake it or pan sear with a little taco seasoning.
Or, better yet, use rotisserie chicken and save yourself the effort!
8. Corn
Corn is another of my favorite items on this list of nacho toppings. There is seriously never enough corn for me in anything. It adds great texture, along with a touch of sweetness.
You can opt for plan kernels, or get a little fancier and make our Mexican Street Corn Salad.
9. Chili
For a super hearty platter, top your nachos with chili!
Try our Ultimate Chili, or for some wonderful smoky flavor, our Chipotle Chili.
10. Queso Dip
Queso dip is great for dipping tortilla chips, and even better for slathering on a pile of nachos with all the fixings!
11. Ground Turkey
For a lighter and healthier alternative to ground beef, try ground turkey. It’s just as easy, and you can season it the same way.
12. Shrimp
Shrimp on nachos? You bet!!! Try my super delicious Surf and Turf Nachos, you may never need another recipe!
13. Sour Cream
Sour cream is a great contrast to the salty and spicy flavors in many of the other nacho toppings. It adds a cooling element that I love.
14. Lettuce
Lettuce gives your nachos color, veggie power, and extra crunch. Finely chop it and spread over your whole platter.
15. Jalapeños
If you like a bit of kick like me, don’t forget the jalapeños!
You can go with fresh or pickled, either option is a great addition to your nachos.
16. Mango Salsa
Give your nachos some sweetness with our Mango Salsa. It pairs especially well with chicken or shrimp.
17. Olives
Black olives are one of our favorite nacho toppings. They go with anything, and they give a nice visual contrast.
18. Pulled Pork
Turn your appetizer into a hearty main by topping it with pulled pork!
My Barbacoa Pork, Carnitas or Cochon de Lait would go great on nachos.
19. Cilantro
Cilantro is a very important ingredient in Mexican cuisine, so don’t forget it on your nachos! Some people might not like cilantro, but if you ask me, it’s a must if you are thinking anything Mexican.
20. Onions
Some people like them there.
21. Steak
Some nice, thinly sliced strips of steak make a great topping. Marinate it for a few hours in my Carne Asada Marinade for maximum flavors!
22. Salsa Verde
For a little different flavor profile than a typical red salsa, try my easy Salsa Verde on your nachos.
23. Turkey
Yes, as in leftover turkey! Go beyond the usual soup and sandwiches and turn your holiday leftovers into our super yummy Turkey Nachos.
24. Tomatoes
Tomatoes give your nachos a special pop of freshness. I especially like those gorgeous little cherry tomatoes!
24. Bell Peppers
Either raw or sautéed, bell peppers make another nice topping choice. Go with multi-colored for an extra pretty platter.
25. Chipotle Mayo
Our Chipotle Mayo gives an extra dimension of smoky, spicy and creamy. It’s one of my favorite condiments to keep around.
26. Lobster
If you want some really fancy nachos, top them with lobster meat. Hey, why not?
27. Salsa Taquera
If you like HOT, this classic Salsa Taquera is for you.
Fiery árbol chilis and a few other simple ingredients blend together for the ultimate nacho experience!
28. Avocado
Avocados are a classic topping for nachos. If you don’t feel like making guac, just dice them up!
29. Refried Beans
Refried beans are a common side dish for tacos, or just about any other Mexican dish. They’re also great on nachos.
30. Eggs
Who says you can’t have nachos for breakfast? Scramble some eggs, add some cheese, maybe some bacon or sausage… Breakfast nachos!
So there you go, thirty great nacho topping ideas. With an endless variety of combinations, you can have nachos every night!
Get creative, and have fun!
Welcome to GypsyPlate! I'm Alpana, former wordwide tour manager and professional caterer, now full time blogger. I love exploring cuisines from around the world, and my recipes have been featured on sites such as MSN, Parade, Brit + Co, CNET and AOL. You can explore my entire collection of sortable recipes in my Recipe Index or learn more about me here.
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