BEST NACHOS CHEESE RECIPES

Steps:

• In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and half the diced onion. Cook it until starting to soften, then add the ground beef. Cook the meat until it's totally browned, then drain the fat. Add the chili powder, paprika, cumin, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper and stir to combine. Add the beans and hot water and stir. Reduce the heat to low and simmer while you prepare the other ingredients. 
• To make the pico de gallo, combine the other half of the diced onion with the tomato, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir it together and set it aside. 
• To build the nachos, place a layer of tortilla chips on a platter or plate. Top with a layer of the beef/bean mixture, then all but 1/4 cup of the cheddar cheese. Add another layer of chips, another layer of the beef/bean mixture, and the Monterey Jack cheese. Add a final small layer of chips, then a small layer of beef and beans, then a final sprinkling of cheddar. 
• Microwave in 45 second increments until the cheese is melted and bubbly. (You may also place the platter into a 325˚ oven if it's heatproof. Just leave it in until the cheese is melted.) 
• Immediately sprinkle on the diced avocado and plenty of pico de gallo. Optional: Add dollops of sour cream here and there. Serve immediately!

Steps:

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and place the rack in the center position.
• Line 2 large baking sheets with foil or parchment paper. 
• Place the chips in a single layer on the prepared pans.
• In a medium saucepan, combine the refried beans, sour cream, chile powder, garlic powder, and ground cumin.
• Stir until well mixed.
• Warm the bean mixture over medium heat until heated through, stirring every couple of minutes.
• Using a spatula, spread the bean mixture on the chips, dividing evenly between the two pans.
• Sprinkle the pans with the cheese, using 4 ounces per pan.
• Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Remove from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, green onion, and black olives. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
• Serve with sides of Easy Restaurant Style Salsa, Sour Cream, and Shredded Lettuce.