Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese

These loaded nachos are a delicious and healthier take on a classic favorite. Lean ground turkey, black beans, and melted cheese come together over crisp tortilla chips, topped with fresh garnishes for the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer or quick weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lightened-up with lean turkey and baked chips
• High in protein and fiber from turkey and beans
• Quick and easy to make—ready in under 30 minutes
• Fully customizable with your favorite toppings
• Great for family dinners, parties, or game day

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 oz baked tortilla chips
• 8 oz lean ground turkey (99% fat-free)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fat-free spicy black bean dip
• 1⅓ cups reduced-fat Mexican cheese blend, shredded
• 2 cups fresh pico de gallo
• ½ cup light sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Optional: thinly sliced jalapeños

directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet or oven-safe plates.
3. Cook ground turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until browned. Stir in black bean dip and heat through.
4. Spoon the turkey and bean mixture over the chips. Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for about 6 minutes or until cheese is melted.
6. Remove from oven and top with pico de gallo, sour cream or yogurt, cilantro, and jalapeños if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey
• Swap black bean dip for refried or whole black beans
• Add extra veggies like corn, bell peppers, or avocado
• Try different cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or vegan options
• Make it spicier with hot sauce or chipotle powder

storage/reheating

• Store leftover meat and beans separately in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Reheat turkey mixture on the stove or microwave
• Reassemble with fresh chips and cheese, then bake or broil briefly
• Avoid storing assembled nachos to prevent sogginess

FAQs

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, just use certified gluten-free tortilla chips and ensure your seasonings and dips are gluten-free.

Can I use canned beans instead of bean dip?

Yes, mix in refried or drained canned beans for a different texture.

What’s the best cheese for nachos?

A Mexican blend melts well, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack also work great.

Can I prepare the turkey mixture ahead?

Yes, you can cook and refrigerate the turkey-bean mix up to 3 days in advance.

How can I make it spicier?

Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili powder to the turkey mixture.

Are baked chips necessary?

Not required, but they help reduce fat and calories.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely—just omit the turkey and double the beans or use plant-based meat.

How do I keep nachos from getting soggy?

Add wet toppings like pico and sour cream only after baking and serve immediately.

What are good topping ideas?

Avocado, guacamole, olives, green onions, shredded lettuce, or hot sauce.

Can I double the recipe for a party?

Yes, just use a larger baking sheet and scale the ingredients accordingly.

Conclusion

Loaded Nachos with Ground Turkey, Beans and Cheese are a delicious, healthier twist on a beloved snack. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and completely customizable to your tastes. Whether for a quick dinner or your next get-together, these nachos are guaranteed to satisfy.

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