Loaded Shrimp and Beef Nachos

This is the kind of loaded nacho platter that disappears fast once it hits the table. Juicy seasoned shrimp, savory ground beef, and melted cheese come together with plenty of fresh toppings, making every bite a little different. It’s a hearty appetizer or easy dinner that’s perfect for sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two proteins, one loaded tray. Shrimp and beef both bring big flavor to every chip.
• Loaded with fresh toppings. Tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, and more keep things vibrant and fresh.
• Great for gatherings. Perfect for game day, movie nights, or any casual get-together.
• Ready in 35 minutes. A crowd-pleasing dish that comes together fast.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ⅓ cup sliced pickled jalapeños
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup salsa
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

How to Make Loaded Shrimp and Beef Nachos

1. Cook the beef. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and taco seasoning, then cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking the beef into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.

2. Season the shrimp. Pat the shrimp dry and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Sear the shrimp. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until lightly browned, pink, and cooked through.

4. Build the nachos. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread the tortilla chips over a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter. Layer the cooked beef evenly over the chips, followed by the shredded cheese.

5. Melt the cheese. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, just until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling. Remove from the oven and arrange the cooked shrimp generously over the nachos.

6. Load them up. Top the shrimp and beef nachos with diced tomatoes, red onion, pickled jalapeños, green onions, and fresh cilantro.

7. Serve hot. Add spoonfuls of sour cream and salsa, then serve immediately with fresh lime wedges.

Tips for the Best Loaded Shrimp and Beef Nachos

• Drain excess grease from the beef. This keeps the nachos from turning greasy and lets the other flavors shine.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp. About 2 minutes per side is enough; they’ll turn rubbery if left too long.
• Layer the cheese evenly. This helps every chip get some melted cheese instead of just the top layer.
• Add the shrimp after baking. This keeps them from overcooking while the cheese melts.

What to Serve with Loaded Shrimp and Beef Nachos

These nachos are a filling appetizer or shareable main on their own. Extra salsa, guacamole, or a squeeze of lime on the side all make great additions if you want to build out the spread further.

Frequently Asked Questions