Tin-Foil Tray Nachos – A Midwest Favorite with a Mexican Twist

When it comes to party food that disappears fast, nothing beats a hot tray of nachos. They’re cheesy, crunchy, and endlessly customizable. But what if we told you there’s a Midwest-style spin on the classic Mexican nacho platter? Enter the Tin-Foil Tray Nachos—a fun, fuss-free recipe that blends hearty Midwest convenience with bold Mexican flavors.

Served on a disposable foil tray (or sheet pan lined with foil), these nachos are perfect for game day, tailgates, barbecues, and casual family nights. The foil tray makes cleanup a breeze, while the toppings bring layers of flavor that keep everyone reaching for “just one more bite.”

🌟 Why You’ll Love Tin-Foil Tray Nachos

• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for sharing at parties or family dinners.
• Customizable: Add any toppings you love—meat, beans, veggies, or just cheese.
• Easy Cleanup: Simply toss the foil tray after serving.
• Quick & Satisfying: Ready in under 30 minutes.

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 large bag of tortilla chips
• 1 lb ground beef (or chicken/turkey)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• Sour cream, salsa, and guacamole (for serving)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook meat: In a skillet, brown ground beef. Add taco seasoning and cook as directed.
3. Layer chips: Spread tortilla chips evenly on a foil-lined tray.
4. Add toppings: Sprinkle with seasoned meat, beans, corn, onion, and half the cheese. Add another layer of chips and toppings.
5. Bake: Top with remaining cheese and bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is fully melted.
6. Finish fresh: Garnish with tomatoes, jalapeños, olives, and fresh cilantro if desired.
7. Serve hot: Pair with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Tin-Foil Tray Nachos

Crispy tortilla chips layered with seasoned beef, cheese, beans, and fresh toppings, baked on a foil tray for easy cleanup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 27 minutes mins

Servings: 6 people

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: Mexican, Midwestern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 large bag tortilla chips
• 1 lb ground beef or chicken/turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
• 1 small red onion diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
• 1 jalapeño sliced
• 0.5 cup black olives sliced
• sour cream, salsa, and guacamole for serving

Equipment

• Foil tray or sheet pan
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a skillet. Stir in taco seasoning and cook as directed.
3. Spread tortilla chips evenly on a foil tray.
4. Top with beef, beans, corn, onion, and half the cheese. Add another layer of chips and toppings.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese melts.
6. Garnish with fresh toppings like tomatoes, jalapeños, and olives.
7. Serve hot with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.

Notes

You can make these vegetarian by skipping the meat and adding extra beans or roasted vegetables.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Serve directly on the foil tray for a rustic, communal feel.
• Pair with margaritas or cold beers for the ultimate party snack.
• Add a drizzle of spicy queso or chipotle ranch for extra flair.