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Loaded Shrimp and Beef Nachos Recipe

Loaded Shrimp and Beef Nachos

These loaded nachos combine succulent shrimp and savory beef for a mouthwatering appetizer or main course. Perfect for parties or game days!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Beef Layer
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade mix
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Shrimp
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional for heat
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice optional for brightness
Nacho Base
  • 1 large bag Doritos Nacho Cheese or Spicy Sweet Chili flavor
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.
  • 1/2 cup nacho cheese sauce optional for extra meltiness
Fresh Toppings
  • 1 Roma tomato diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
  • Sour cream or crema drizzle optional

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Oven-safe platter or baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 6–8 minutes).
  4. Drain excess grease.
  5. Stir in taco seasoning and ¼ cup water. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened and fully coated. Set aside.
  6. Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
  7. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
  8. Toss shrimp in olive oil, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  9. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the shrimp for about 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and slightly charred around the edges.
  10. Remove from heat and squeeze over a bit of lime juice if desired.
  11. Step 3: Assemble the Nachos
  12. On a large oven-safe platter or baking sheet, spread out a generous layer of Doritos chips (choose a bold flavor like Nacho Cheese or Spicy Sweet Chili for color and taste).
  13. Spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the chips.
  14. Add a layer of shredded cheese, making sure it covers most of the chips and beef.
  15. If using nacho cheese sauce, drizzle some over the top for extra creaminess.
  16. Bake or broil briefly (3–5 minutes at 375°F / 190°C) — just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  17. Step 4: Add the Shrimp and Toppings
  18. Once the nachos come out of the oven, top immediately with the cooked shrimp.
  19. Sprinkle over diced tomatoes, red onions, jalapeño slices, and chopped cilantro.
  20. Add a drizzle of sour cream or Mexican crema for a finishing touch.

Notes

Serve hot right away — the shrimp should still be slightly warm and the cheese gooey. Add a side of guacamole, pico de gallo, or salsa verde for dipping. For extra richness, drizzle a bit more melted cheese or a spicy chipotle mayo over the top before serving.