Spicy Black Bean Nachos Recipe: A Flavorful Delight

Spicy Black Bean Nachos are a delicious and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or a meal. Bursting with flavor from black beans, cheese, and a hint of spice, these nachos are perfect for game day, movie night, or any casual gathering with friends and family.

Why Make This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of Spicy Black Bean Nachos. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time. The combination of creamy cheese, savory black beans, and zesty toppings creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.

Additionally, this recipe is perfect for customizing. Whether you prefer extra heat or love piling on the fresh toppings, you have the freedom to adjust it to your taste. Nachos are also an excellent way to sneak in some nutritious ingredients, ensuring that you can indulge without compromising on health.

How to Make Spicy Black Bean Nachos

Creating your own Spicy Black Bean Nachos is simple and fun! Follow these easy steps to enjoy this tasty dish in no time.

Ingredients

1 can black beans
1/2 onion, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves, peeled
2 chipotles in adobo
1 tablespoon adobo sauce
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
1/2 cup water or stock
1 bag tortilla chips
4-5 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack)
Jalapeno slices (optional)
Chopped cilantro (optional)
Pico de gallo (optional)
For Avocado Salsa Verde:
- 4 tomatillos, rinsed
- 1/2 onion
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 jalapeno
- 10-12 sprigs cilantro
- 1 avocado

Directions

Start by roughly chopping the onion and peeling the garlic cloves. In a pan, sauté the onion and garlic in a dollop of oil over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
While the onion and garlic are cooking, drain and rinse the can of black beans. After the onion mixture is ready, add the black beans to the pan along with the chipotles in adobo, adobo sauce, cumin, salt, freshly ground pepper, and water (or stock). Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.
Once warmed, transfer the bean mixture into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth, seasoning with more salt to taste if necessary.
Next, shred the Monterey Jack cheese. On a sheet pan, add a dense, single layer of tortilla chips. Drizzle some of the bean mixture over the chips and sprinkle a generous layer of cheese on top.
Place the nachos in the oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
While the nachos are baking, prepare the Avocado Salsa Verde. Rinse the tomatillos and roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until they are cooked through and starting to turn army green.
Once roasted, blend the tomatillos with the onion, garlic, cilantro, and half of the jalapeno. Pulse blend to your desired consistency and taste, adding more jalapeno if you like it spicier. Finally, add the avocado and blend until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
Once the nachos come out of the oven, top with your favorite fixings, such as jalapeno slices, chopped cilantro, and pico de gallo. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Success with Spicy Black Bean Nachos

Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients will elevate the flavor of your nachos. Look for quality cheese and ripe avocados for the best taste.
Layer It Up: For cheese that melts perfectly, layer the bean mixture and cheese throughout the chips, rather than just on top. This ensures every chip gets the cheesy goodness.
Don’t Skip the Salsa Verde: The Avocado Salsa Verde is a game-changer. It adds freshness and brightness, cutting through the richness of the cheese.
Customize Your Heat: Feel free to adjust the amount of chipotles and jalapenos to suit your taste. For a milder version, use fewer peppers or omit the jalapeno altogether.
Keep an Eye on Baking: Nachos can go from perfectly melted to burnt quickly, so keep a close watch during the last few minutes in the oven.
Serve Immediately: Nachos are best served hot and fresh out of the oven. Enjoy them right away to keep the chips crisp.

Flavor Variations for Spicy Black Bean Nachos

Chicken or Beef Topping: Add cooked shredded chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal. Season the meat with taco spices for added flavor.
Black Olives: Sprinkle some sliced black olives on top for an extra layer of flavor and a Mediterranean twist.
Corn and Avocado: Add roasted corn kernels and diced avocado on top for a creamy and sweet flavor contrast.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with a mix of cheeses. Cheddar, pepper jack, or goat cheese can add interesting flavors.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply include more veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms in the bean mix.

Serving Suggestions for Spicy Black Bean Nachos

Spicy Black Bean Nachos can be served as a stand-alone snack or as a fun appetizer at parties. Here are some serving ideas:

At a Game Day Party: Set up a nacho bar where everyone can customize their toppings according to their preferences.
Family Movie Night: Pair your nachos with a creamy dip, like sour cream or guacamole, on the side for an indulgent movie snack.
Casual Dinner: Serve the nachos alongside a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the cheese.
Picnic Treat: Pack the nachos with their toppings in a portable container for an easy-to-share picnic snack.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Spicy Black Bean Nachos

While Spicy Black Bean Nachos are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers if necessary. To do so:

In the Refrigerator: Place any uneaten nachos in an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 days. However, the chips might lose their crunch, so be prepared for a softer texture when reheating.
To Reheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the nachos on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese has melted again.
Freezing Not Recommended: The texture of nachos doesn’t hold up well in the freezer. It’s better to enjoy these tasty morsels fresh.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 10g
Sodium: 780mg

FAQ About Spicy Black Bean Nachos

Can I make these nachos ahead of time?

While nachos are best made fresh, you can prepare the bean mixture and shredded cheese in advance. You can then assemble and bake them just before serving for the ultimate fresh experience.

What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?

You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with Cheddar, Pepper Jack, or even a vegan cheese alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Are there gluten-free tortilla chips available?

Yes, many brands offer gluten-free tortilla chips. Always check the packaging to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To amp up the heat, consider using spicier peppers, like serrano or habanero, and increasing the amount of chipotle in adobo. You can also serve them with hot sauce on the side.

Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you’re using dried black beans, make sure to soak and cook them thoroughly before following the rest of the recipe.

Are there vegetarian topping options?

Yes, you can add a variety of vegetarian toppings such as grilled vegetables, corn, or roasted red peppers to enhance the flavor profile of your nachos.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Black Bean Nachos are more than just a dish; they are a delightful experience filled with flavor, fun, and the joy of shared moments. Whether you’re enjoying them with family, hosting a gathering, or treating yourself to a snack, these nachos are sure to please. With their easy preparation, customizable toppings, and the option for making them spicier or milder, you’ll find this recipe a perfect fit for any occasion. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delicious treat!