Method:
Prepare the Foil Packets:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Tear off large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12 inches long) and lay them flat on your work surface.
- Lightly spray or brush the center of each foil piece with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Assemble the Nachos:
- Place a layer of tortilla chips in the center of each piece of foil.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the chips.
- Add a layer of cooked ground beef or shredded chicken, if using.
- Scatter black beans, sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeños (if using) over the cheese.
- Add another layer of tortilla chips and repeat the toppings as desired.
- Finish with a final layer of cheese on top.
Seal the Foil Packets:
- Fold the sides of the foil up and over the nachos, creating a sealed packet.
- Make sure the packets are tightly sealed to trap the heat and melt the cheese.
Cook the Nachos:
- Place the foil packets on the preheated grill or in the oven.
- Grill or bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Carefully remove the packets from the grill or oven using tongs, as they will be hot.
Serve:
- Open the foil packets and let the steam escape.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
- Serve the nachos directly from the foil packets with sour cream, salsa, and guacamole on the side.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Tin-Foil Nachos:
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Add ingredients like corn, bell peppers, or green onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Cheese Choice: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack for a deliciously melty and flavorful result.
- Crispy Chips: For extra crispy nachos, place the chips in the oven for a few minutes before assembling to remove any moisture.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Nachos: Skip the meat and load up on extra beans, vegetables, and cheese for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Spicy Nachos: Add hot sauce or use spicy cheese blends to kick up the heat.
- Breakfast Nachos: Top the nachos with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese for a fun breakfast twist.
