Decadent Loaded Nachos with Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base and Cheese

01 - 1 large bag of tortilla chips (about 10–12 oz)
02 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
03 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra stretchiness)

→ Protein and Toppings

04 - 1 cup cooked ground beef or chicken (optional)
05 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
06 - 1 medium tomato, diced
07 - 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
08 - 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
09 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
10 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
11 - Salt and pepper to taste
12 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)

→ For Serving

13 - 1/2 cup sour cream
14 - 1/2 cup salsa
15 - 1/4 cup guacamole

# Instructions:

01 - Heat oven to 400°F (200°C).
02 - If using ground beef or chicken, cook in a skillet until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Drain fat and set aside.
03 - Chop red onion, dice tomato, slice jalapeño and olives. Grate cheese if not pre-shredded.
04 - Spread tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
05 - Sprinkle half the cheese over the chips. Add cooked meat, onion, tomato, jalapeños, and olives.
06 - Cover with remaining cheese, making sure toppings are well covered.
07 - Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
08 - Sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole on the side.

# Notes:

01 - For extra crispy edges, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking time.
02 - Substitute black beans for meat to make a vegetarian version.
03 - Use a heavy-duty baking sheet to prevent chips from burning.
04 - Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.

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