Zesty Marinated Steak Nachos are a flavorful and satisfying appetizer, perfect for gatherings or a hearty snack. Tender marinated steak is combined with crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and fresh toppings to create a dish that’s sure to please any crowd.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 lb steak (such as flank or skirt steak)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 4 tablespoons chopped scallions
• Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 bag tortilla chips
• 1 cup queso fresco or shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 tablespoons chopped onions
• 4 tablespoons sliced jalapeño peppers

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice and zest, chili powder, ground cumin, minced garlic, chopped scallions, salt, and pepper.
2. Cut the steak into serving-sized pieces and place them into the marinade, ensuring all sides are coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it onto the surface of the steak to eliminate air.
3. Refrigerate the marinating steak for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil shimmers and the skillet begins to smoke, add a few pieces of the steak.
6. Sear the steak for 3 minutes on one side, flip, and sear for another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side. Repeat this process in small batches until all the steak is cooked.
7. Transfer the cooked steak to a plate, cover with foil, and let it rest for 15 minutes.
8. Slice the rested steak into small pieces.
9. On a large baking sheet, arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer. Evenly top with the sliced steak, queso fresco or shredded cheese, cherry tomatoes, chopped onions, and sliced jalapeño peppers.
10. Place the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the chips are browned on the edges and the cheese has melted.
11. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Nutritional Facts

• Calories: 386 kcal
• Total Fat: 29.0 g
• Protein: 27.7 g
• Carbohydrates: 4.4 g

The Importance of Marinating the Steak

Marinating the steak is the key to making these nachos stand out. Marinating helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with a deeper flavor. The marinade typically includes ingredients like olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. These ingredients work together to enhance the flavor of the steak and create a beautifully tender and juicy piece of meat that is perfect for topping on nachos.

The lime juice in the marinade not only adds a tangy kick but also helps break down the proteins in the meat, which leads to a more tender steak. The chili powder and cumin add a smoky depth of flavor, while the garlic gives the steak a savory profile that complements the other ingredients.

While marinating the steak may seem like an extra step, it’s well worth the time. Allowing the steak to marinate for at least an hour—or even overnight—gives the flavors time to meld, resulting in a deliciously seasoned steak that will make every bite of these nachos unforgettable.

Choosing the Right Cut of Steak

When preparing Marinated Steak Nachos, choosing the right cut of steak is crucial. Not all steaks are created equal, and the texture and flavor of the steak can make or break the dish. The best cuts of steak for this recipe are those that are flavorful and tender, but also relatively easy to cook quickly.

Flank steak and skirt steak are popular choices for this dish. Both cuts are known for their rich beefy flavor and tenderness when cooked properly. These cuts are also relatively thin, which makes them perfect for searing in a hot skillet or grill. Flank steak, in particular, is often used in dishes that require marinated meat, as it absorbs the marinade well and becomes very tender when cooked quickly over high heat.

If you prefer a more traditional cut, ribeye or sirloin can also work for this recipe. These cuts tend to be a bit more expensive but offer a rich, marbled texture that adds even more flavor to the nachos.

Layering the Nachos for Maximum Flavor

The beauty of nachos lies in the layering of ingredients. Each bite should offer a perfect combination of crispy chips, melted cheese, and flavorful toppings. To achieve this balance, it’s essential to layer the nachos correctly.

Start by spreading a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet. The chips should be arranged in a single layer so that each one gets a fair amount of cheese and toppings. Then, add the marinated steak, distributing it evenly over the chips. This allows each chip to be topped with some of that delicious, flavorful steak.

Next, sprinkle the cheese over the steak and chips. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, satisfying layer that binds the chips and steak together. Use a cheese that melts well, such as queso fresco or Monterey Jack, for the best results. These cheeses have a mild flavor that complements the steak without overpowering it.

Finally, add the fresh toppings, such as chopped onions, tomatoes, and sliced jalapeños. These ingredients add crunch and brightness to the dish, creating a contrast to the rich, melted cheese and savory steak. The freshness of these toppings balances out the heaviness of the nachos, giving the dish a more well-rounded flavor.

The Baking Process: Ensuring Perfectly Melted Cheese

Once your nachos are layered, they’re ready to be baked. Baking the nachos in a preheated oven helps the cheese melt evenly and allows the flavors to meld together. The key is to bake the nachos just long enough for the cheese to melt without overcooking the chips.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake the nachos for about 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the cheese will melt and the edges of the chips will become slightly crispy. Keep an eye on the nachos to ensure they don’t burn, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

Once the nachos are out of the oven, they’re ready to be served. For added flair, garnish with more fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or a dollop of sour cream.

Customizing Your Nachos

One of the great things about Marinated Steak Nachos is that they can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Feel free to add or substitute toppings based on what you have on hand or what you enjoy.

For instance, if you prefer a spicier kick, you can add more jalapeños or drizzle the nachos with hot sauce. If you like a richer flavor, you can incorporate guacamole or a dollop of sour cream on top. For an extra touch of freshness, try adding diced avocado or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese. While queso fresco and Monterey Jack are traditional choices, cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses can add a new dimension to your nachos.

Nutritional Benefits of Marinated Steak Nachos

While Marinated Steak Nachos are undeniably indulgent, they also offer some nutritional benefits. Steak is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It’s also rich in iron, a mineral that helps carry oxygen in the blood and supports overall energy levels.

The vegetables used in this dish—such as tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños—provide important vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are high in vitamin C, while jalapeños contain capsaicin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. The addition of fresh ingredients helps balance the richness of the steak and cheese, making this dish a more well-rounded option for a snack or appetizer.

That being said, Marinated Steak Nachos should still be enjoyed in moderation, as they can be high in calories and fat, especially when topped with melted cheese and guacamole. However, by using lean cuts of steak and focusing on fresh, healthy toppings, you can make this dish a bit lighter while still enjoying its delicious flavor.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Party Snack

Marinated Steak Nachos are a fantastic dish to serve at any gathering. Their combination of tender marinated steak, crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and fresh toppings creates a flavor explosion that is sure to satisfy any palate. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, these nachos are guaranteed to be a hit.