Loaded Nachos with Seasoned Beef

Step 1

Place a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat and wait 1 minute until hot. Add the ground beef in a single layer, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon into walnut-sized pieces as it cooks, about 5 minutes, until no pink remains.

Step 2

Pour off excess grease through a fine-mesh strainer, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan to coat the beef, then return the beef to the skillet.

Step 3

Sprinkle 1.5 teaspoons chili powder and 1 teaspoon cumin over the beef, then stir constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant and evenly coated, so the spices bloom and distribute throughout the meat.

Step 4

Spread 6 cups tortilla chips in a single even layer across a large ovenproof serving platter or baking sheet, so chips are close but not stacked.

Step 5

Scatter the warm seasoned beef over the chips, distributing it evenly across the surface.

Step 6

Sprinkle 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the beef in an even layer, so most chips are covered or nestled near cheese.

Step 7

Set the broiler to high and position the oven rack 6 inches below the heating element. Broil the nachos for 2 to 3 minutes, watching continuously, until the cheese melts and begins to bubble at the edges.

Step 8

Remove from the broiler and drizzle 0.5 cup sour cream across the top in a zigzag pattern so it pools in a few spots.

Step 9

Scatter jalapeño slices and 0.25 cup chopped cilantro or scallions across the top for color and freshness, then serve immediately while cheese is still melted.