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Crispy Campfire Chili Cheese Nachos Recipe with Jalapeño and Sour Cream

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A quick and easy recipe for crispy nachos layered with hearty chili, melty cheese, fresh jalapeños, and topped with cool sour cream. Perfect for campfire or backyard fire pit gatherings.

Ingredients

  • Tortilla chips (sturdy, thick-cut)
  • Hearty beef or turkey chili (homemade or canned)
  • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • Fresh jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • Sour cream for topping
  • Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • Olive oil or butter (to crisp chips)
  • Chili powder (if making chili from scratch)
  • Cumin (if making chili from scratch)
  • Smoked paprika (if making chili from scratch)
  • Garlic powder (if making chili from scratch)
  • Onion powder (if making chili from scratch)
  • Salt and pepper (if making chili from scratch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven or campfire setup to 375°F (190°C). If using a campfire, set up a grate over medium coals.
  2. Prepare chili: simmer homemade chili until thick and rich or warm canned chili gently on stove or microwave for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Drizzle olive oil or dot butter in cast iron skillet or baking sheet to help crisp chips.
  4. Spread a single layer of tortilla chips evenly across the pan.
  5. Spoon dollops of chili evenly over the chips without drowning them.
  6. Generously cover with shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
  7. Scatter sliced fresh jalapeños over the cheese, adjusting quantity for desired heat.
  8. Cover skillet loosely with foil and bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 3-5 minutes to crisp edges of chips and cheese.
  10. Remove from oven, dollop with sour cream, sprinkle sliced green onions, and serve hot directly from the skillet.

Notes

Avoid piling too much chili in one spot to keep chips crispy. Use cast iron skillet for even heat and better crispiness. Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat. Add sour cream fresh after reheating. For campfire cooking, wrap skillet in foil and place on hot coals, turning occasionally.

Nutrition

Keywords: nachos, campfire recipe, chili cheese nachos, jalapeño, sour cream, easy nachos, outdoor cooking, snack, appetizer