Enjoy quick, crispy nachos made in the air fryer.
introduction
These Crispy Air Fryer Nachos cook fast and stay crunchy. They are simple to make and taste great for snack time or a quick dinner. If you like simple air fryer snacks, you might also enjoy air fryer churro bites for a sweet finish.
why make this recipe
Make this recipe when you want fast food at home. The air fryer keeps chips crunchy and melts cheese quickly. You need only a few steps and simple ingredients. This recipe makes a good plate to share.
how to make Crispy Air Fryer Nachos
- Cook the beef. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drain the fat and set the beef aside.
- Preheat the air fryer to 320 F. Line the air fryer basket or oven with parchment paper.
- Build the first layer. Put half the chips in the basket. Add half the cheese, half the tomato, half the bell pepper, and half the beef.
- Build the second layer. Add the rest of the chips, the rest of the cheese, tomato, pepper, and beef.
- Air fry the nachos for 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the chips look golden.
- Finish and serve. Top with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro. Serve with sour cream or other toppings you like.
Ingredients :
- ½ lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 4 cups tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 roma tomato, diced
- ½ bell pepper, diced
- 1 scallion, sliced
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream for serving
Directions :
- Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium heat with the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drain it and set it aside.
- Preheat the air fryer to 320 F.
- Line the air fryer basket or oven with parchment paper, then add half the chips to the bottom of the basket, then layer on half the cheese, half the tomato, half the pepper and half the beef.
- Repeat the layers, starting with the chips, then air fry for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Top the nachos with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro, and serve with sour cream or other toppings if desired.
how to serve Crispy Air Fryer Nachos
Serve the nachos hot on a large plate or a baking tray. Add more sour cream, salsa, or guacamole at the side. For a full meal, serve with a simple side like creamy garlic herb chicken thighs with crispy baby potatoes.
how to store Crispy Air Fryer Nachos
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes so the chips stay crisp. If you freeze them, they may lose crunch when thawed, so fridge storage is best.
tips to make Crispy Air Fryer Nachos
- Use parchment paper to keep the basket clean and help remove the nachos easily.
- Do not overload the basket. Give space so heat moves and cheese melts.
- Add fresh toppings after cooking so they stay bright and crisp.
- For a side veggie, try a warm baked cabbage dish like creamy baked cabbage with crispy bacon.
variation (if any)
- Use shredded chicken or black beans instead of beef for a change.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for more spice.
- Add jalapeño slices or pickled onions for extra kick.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen ground beef?
A: Yes. Thaw it first and cook all the way through before using.
Q: Will the chips get soggy in the air fryer?
A: If you follow the temp and time, they stay crisp. Do not add wet toppings before air frying.
Q: Can I make these in the oven?
A: Yes. Bake at 350 F for about 6–8 minutes or until the cheese melts.
Q: How many servings does this make?
A: It makes about 2–4 snack servings depending on appetite.
Conclusion
For an easy, crunchy snack made fast, try this recipe and enjoy the warm cheese and crisp chips. For another take on air fryer nachos and tips, see Crispy Air Fryer Nachos | Everyday Family Cooking.

Crispy Air Fryer Nachos
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium heat with the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drain the fat and set the beef aside.
- Preheat the air fryer to 320°F.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper.
- Add half the chips to the bottom of the air fryer basket.
- Layer on half the cheese, half the tomato, half the bell pepper, and half the beef.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining chips, cheese, tomato, bell pepper, and beef.
- Air fry the nachos for 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the chips look golden.
- Top the nachos with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro. Serve with sour cream or other desired toppings.