Save Crispy tortilla chips layered with tangy dill pickles, zesty margarita-inspired cheese sauce, and fresh toppings. A bold, playful fusion perfect for sharing.
I first tried making these nachos when friends came over for a game night, and everyone loved the surprising flavors. The combination of margarita-style cheese sauce and crispy chips with the fresh toppings quickly became a new favorite at our house.
Ingredients
- Tortilla chips: 200 g (7 oz)
- Dill pickles, sliced: 150 g (about 1 cup)
- Unsalted butter: 1 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 1 tbsp
- Whole milk: 250 ml (1 cup)
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: 150 g (1 ½ cups)
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 60 g (½ cup)
- Tequila (optional): 2 tbsp
- Fresh lime juice: 2 tsp
- Finely grated lime zest: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: ½ tsp
- Onion powder: ½ tsp
- Ground cumin: ¼ tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Chopped fresh dill: 2 tbsp
- Chopped fresh cilantro: 2 tbsp
- Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional): 1
- Small red onion, thinly sliced: 1
- Small tomato, diced: 1
- Lime wedges, for serving: as needed
- Sea salt, for garnish: as needed
Instructions
- Prepare chips:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Arrange tortilla chips on a large baking sheet.
- Make cheese sauce base:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add cheese & flavorings:
- Lower heat, add both cheeses, stirring until smooth and melted. Stir in tequila (if using), lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and black pepper. Remove from heat.
- Layer chips & pickles:
- Scatter sliced pickles evenly over the tortilla chips. Drizzle hot cheese sauce generously on top.
- Bake:
- Bake nachos for 5–6 minutes, until cheese bubbles and chips are golden at the edges.
- Add toppings & serve:
- Remove from oven. Top with dill, cilantro, jalapeño, red onion, and tomato. Sprinkle with sea salt. Serve immediately with lime wedges.
Save We like to make these nachos for our family movie night, and it always turns into a delicious tradition. Even kids get a kick out of customizing their own toppings before the tray goes into the oven.
Required Tools
Baking sheet, saucepan, whisk, knife, and cutting board are all you need for prepping and serving these easy nachos.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, cheese) and gluten (flour, some tortilla chips). Some commercial tortilla chips may contain traces of soy or other allergens. Always check labels for sensitive guests.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 420, total fat 21 g, carbohydrates 44 g, protein 13 g.
Save Serve the nachos hot and bubbly, garnished with plenty of fresh lime wedges and your favorite toppings. Enjoy every bold and tangy bite.
Common Questions
- → Can I make this without tequila?
Yes, simply omit the tequila for a non-alcoholic version with all the zesty flavors intact.
- → What other pickles work well?
Bread-and-butter pickles give a sweeter twist, while spicy pickles add heat and complexity.
- → How can I add protein?
Add grilled chicken, black beans, or avocado for extra protein and a heartier dish.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, use vegetarian-friendly cheeses and check that your chips do not contain animal-based ingredients.
- → What drinks pair well?
Serve with a classic margarita or a crisp pilsner to complement the tangy, cheesy flavors.