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Air Fryer Nachos

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Cook Time 5 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • Tortilla chips: Thick sturdy chips hold up best in the air fryer.
  • Shredded cheese: A blend like cheddar Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melts beautifully.
  • Cooked protein optional: Seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, chorizo, or black beans.
  • Fresh toppings: Diced tomatoes sliced jalapeños, red onion, cilantro.
  • Saucy add-ons: Salsa guacamole, sour cream, hot sauce.
  • Seasonings: Taco seasoning chili powder, or cumin for extra flavor.
  • Oil spray optional: A light spritz helps with even melting and crisping.
  • Liner: Parchment paper with holes or a perforated air fryer liner for easy cleanup.

Instructions
 

  • Prep the basket: Line your air fryer basket with a perforated parchment liner. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) if your model recommends it.
  • Warm your protein: If using meat or beans, make sure they’re fully cooked and warm. Cold toppings can slow melting and make chips soggy.
  • Build the first layer: Add a single, slightly overlapping layer of chips. Sprinkle a generous handful of cheese, then add half your protein and a few jalapeño slices or onions.
  • Repeat with a second layer: Another layer of chips, more cheese, and the rest of your protein. Keep fresh, watery toppings off for now.
  • Air fry: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes. Check at the 3-minute mark. You want fully melted cheese and toasty edges but not burnt chips.
  • Add fresh toppings: Pull the basket and quickly top with diced tomatoes, cilantro, extra jalapeños, or red onion. Drizzle with a little hot sauce if you like.
  • Finish and serve: Slide nachos onto a platter. Add dollops of sour cream and guacamole. Serve immediately with salsa on the side.