Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 12 oz thick-cut tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
  • 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced white onion
  • 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup guacamole
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and no longer pink.
  3. Drain the excess grease thoroughly using a colander or paper towels.
  4. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour in the water and simmer for 3–5 minutes until the liquid has reduced into a thick glaze that coats the meat.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  7. Spread half of the tortilla chips across a large rimmed sheet pan in a single layer.
  8. Dollop half of the warmed refried beans and half of the seasoned beef over the first layer of chips.
  9. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend over the toppings.
  10. Repeat the process with the remaining chips, refried beans, seasoned beef, and cheese to create a second layer.
  11. Bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
  12. Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, diced onion, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro.