Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 12 oz thick-cut restaurant-style tortilla chips
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 cups shredded Sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup tomato, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapenos, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup salsa

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain the excess fat from the pan.
  3. Stir in the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spices are toasted, then remove from heat.
  5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Spread half of the tortilla chips in an even layer across the pan.
  7. Sprinkle half of the mixed cheeses over the chips.
  8. Spoon half of the seasoned beef evenly across the cheese.
  9. Add the remaining chips and the remaining cheese to create a second layer.
  10. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and browned.
  11. Remove from the oven and top with diced tomato, pickled jalapenos, fresh cilantro, sour cream, and salsa before serving.