Do Share Recipe

I absolutely love nachos, but traditional versions loaded with tortilla chips always leave me feeling guilty about carbs. That’s why I created these Low Carb Nachos with Crispy Cheese Chips and Flavorful Toppings Recipe. They give me the same indulgent flavor without the extra carbs.

I enjoy making these for game nights or quick weeknight snacks, and honestly, everyone I serve them to asks for seconds. Let me walk you through how to make this cheesy, flavorful, guilt-free delight. You can also enjoy similar hearty recipes like New Orleans Shrimp and Corn Bisque Recipe for a cozy meal alongside your nachos.

Low Carb Nachos with Crispy Cheese Chips and Flavorful Toppings Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these low carb nachos come alive:

1 tablespoon avocado oil – perfect for sautéing and adds a subtle flavor.
¼ cup chopped onion – fresh onion gives a sweet, aromatic base; avoid pre-chopped frozen for best taste.
1 teaspoon minced garlic – fresh garlic adds depth; skip powder if you want that punchy flavor.
8 ounces ground beef – I prefer 85% lean for juicy, flavorful meat without excess grease.
1 teaspoon chili powder – essential for that classic nacho spice.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the beef.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – optional, for a little heat.
¼ teaspoon chipotle chili powder – smoky flavor that elevates the nachos.
Salt and pepper to taste – adjust according to preference.
Low carb chips (homemade or store-bought) – these form the crunchy base.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – fresh-shredded melts best and avoids anti-caking additives.
Optional toppings: sliced radishes, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, sour cream, green onions, sliced olives.

Note: several servings – this recipe serves around 4–6 people depending on portion size.

Variations

You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs:

Use shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and blue cheese for a Buffalo Chicken Nachos twist.
Swap ground beef for chorizo to create spicy Chorizo Nachos.
Top with BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, and avocado for BBQ Chicken Nachos.
Dairy-free? Use plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well.
Spice it up with extra chili powders or smoky paprika for deeper flavor. You might also enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Beef Taco Soup Recipe as a side or starter with your nachos.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – for cooking the beef and aromatics.
Baking sheet – to layer chips, meat, and cheese for broiling.
Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Cheese grater – for shredding fresh cheese to melt perfectly.

How to Make Low Carb Nachos with Crispy Cheese Chips and Flavorful Toppings Recipe

Cook the Meat

Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then stir in garlic for 1 minute before adding ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, chipotle powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, and cook another 4 minutes until everything is well combined. Drain excess grease if needed.

Assemble the Nachos

Preheat your oven broiler to high and place a baking sheet with parchment paper on the top rack. Arrange your low carb chips evenly, spoon the seasoned beef over them, and sprinkle shredded cheddar on top.

Broil and Top

Place the nachos under the broiler for about 2 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles. Remove from the oven and immediately add your favorite toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream. Serve while hot.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I always shred my cheese fresh; it melts better and tastes richer.
Avoid stacking too many chips; it keeps them crispy longer.
Drain the beef well if it releases too much grease, or the chips may get soggy.
I like adding a squeeze of lime right before serving for a bright flavor lift.
Toasting the chips lightly before adding toppings helps them hold up under the meat and cheese.

How to Serve Low Carb Nachos with Crispy Cheese Chips and Flavorful Toppings

I love serving these nachos straight from the baking sheet for a casual, fun presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro, thinly sliced radishes, and lime wedges for a pop of color. You can also serve with small bowls of guacamole and sour cream on the side for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a snapshot of what you get in one serving:

Calories: 199 kcal
Protein: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fat: 14 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: I recommend keeping the beef and toppings separate from the chips to prevent sogginess.
Freezing: Cooked meat can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat and assemble fresh chips when ready.
Reheating: Assemble and broil for a couple of minutes until cheese melts; chips stay crisp this way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this recipe quickly became a favorite in my kitchen:

Easy to make – comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Flavorful – spice blends and toppings bring nacho flavors to life without carbs.
Versatile – switch proteins or toppings for endless variations.
Crowd-pleaser – perfect for parties, game nights, or family meals.
Low carb-friendly – enjoy a guilt-free version of a classic indulgence.

Ben Carraoli