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Crispy Air Fryer Nachos: The Ultimate Guide to a Crunchy, Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Snack

Crispy Air Fryer Nachos: The Ultimate Guide to a Crunchy, Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Snack

These Crispy Air Fryer Nachos are crunchy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for game day, movie night, or a quick snack. Made with tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, they come together in just 5 minutes using the air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ lb ground beef

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • ½ tsp cumin

  • ½ tsp oregano

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 4 cups tortilla chips

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 Roma tomato, diced

  • ½ bell pepper, diced

  • 1 scallion, sliced

  • Chopped fresh cilantro

  • Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

  • Cook the beef
    In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat and set aside.

  • Preheat the air fryer
    Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).

  • Assemble the nachos
    Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper.

    • Add half of the tortilla chips

    • Top with half of the cheese, tomato, bell pepper, and beef

    • Repeat the layers once more

  • Air fry
    Cook for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

  • Garnish & serve
    Top with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with sour cream or your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Use thick tortilla chips so they don’t burn or break.

  • Don’t overcrowd—air flow helps keep the chips crispy.

  • Swap cheddar for Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor.

  • Add jalapeños, olives, or hot sauce if you like it spicy.