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Copycat Applebees Neighborhood Nachos Recipe Easy Homemade Chili Nachos with 3 Cheeses

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A homemade version of Applebee’s famous Neighborhood Nachos featuring layers of spicy chili, three cheeses, and crispy tortilla chips. Perfect for game day or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large bag sturdy tortilla chips
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
  • 1/4 cup diced green onions
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
  • Fresh cilantro leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and no longer pink—about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the spices toast with the meat and onions for about a minute.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and kidney beans. Mix well and reduce heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened but still saucy.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Spread a generous layer of tortilla chips on a medium oven-safe baking dish. Spoon half of the chili evenly over the chips.
  7. Sprinkle a mix of all three cheeses over the chili layer. Repeat with another layer of chips, chili, and cheese, covering edges for even coverage.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
  9. Remove from oven and top with sliced jalapeños and diced green onions. Add dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt and sprinkle with fresh cilantro if desired.
  10. Serve immediately while hot and cheese is melty.

Notes

Use sturdy tortilla chips to prevent sogginess. Layer chips and toppings thinly to keep chips crisp. Freshly shred cheese for best melt and texture. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free chips. For dairy-free, substitute cheeses and sour cream with vegan alternatives. Broil for last 1-2 minutes for golden bubbly cheese edges. Chili can be made ahead and reheated before layering.

Nutrition

Keywords: nachos, chili nachos, copycat Applebee's, three cheese nachos, homemade nachos, game day snacks, comfort food

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/copycat-applebees-neighborhood-nachos-recipe-easy-homemade-chili-nachos-with-3-cheeses/