From the comfort of my Midwest kitchen, I am delighted to offer a tale that combines a touch of Tex-Mex with a dash of nostalgia. Imagine a charming get-together when a good-hearted Texas tourist introduced our neighborhood to nachos for the first time. This delicious treat has been a mainstay in our households ever since, and for good reason: it has a way of bringing people together, whether for a relaxed get-together, a lively game day, or just a comfort-food feast.
You may be asking why on earth you would want to bake nachos in a foil pan. Well, my darlings, it’s as easy as pie, leaves very little mess, and lets you be creative with toppings. And since they are easily transported in a tin foil tray after preparation, they are great for bringing cheer to neighborhood gatherings or sharing with neighbors. Simply said, nachos are like a comforting hug—best eaten with friends and family.
Enjoy these delicious nachos with some homemade coleslaw or a colorful garden salad—dressings included, of course—for a perfect accompaniment. And when you need something more, have some sour cream, salsa, and guacamole ready. A piece of apple pie, a delicious tribute to our cherished neighborhood potlucks, will round out the meal.
Make These Nachos Using Tin Foil!
Recommended serving size: 4-6
What You Need: One big bag of tortilla chips
Shredded strong cheddar cheese, measuring 2 cups (or a combination of Monterey Jack and Colby),
1 can of black beans, 15 oz., washed and drained
one sliced ripe tomato
1 finely chopped tiny red onion
1 jalapeño, diced thinly (to reduce heat, remove seeds)
half a cup of black olives, sliced
Half a cup of sweet corn, defrosted or otherwise
1 cup of cooked ground beef or shredded chicken, if desired
Tossed cilantro leaves for presentation
Toss with salt and pepper.
Step one: Get the kitchen ready for guests by preheating the oven to 375°F.
The basis of this edible artwork is made by spreading tortilla chips in a wide tin foil pan.
After coating the chips with half of the cheese, evenly distribute the black beans, tomato, red onion, jalapeño, olives, and corn. Beef or chicken may be added if desired.
Add the rest of the cheese on top, then sprinkle with little salt and pepper.
The cheese should be brown and bubbling after 10 to fifteen minutes in the oven.
Allow it cool for a moment before topping with cilantro.
Ideas & Modifications:
Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini, or any other vegetables you happen to have on hand. To amp up the flavor, try topping the cheese with taco spice. Toss on plenty of toppings and use tortilla chips that are firm enough to hold them.
Get everyone you care about together, heat up some nachos, and enjoy the happiness and comfort they provide. The joy of excellent food and good company, together with the flavors of laughter and camaraderie, make this meal very special. I hope you all take delight in it.
