Forget soggy corn chips, my air fryer nachos recipe ensures every bite is deliciously crispy!
Check out my game-changing crispy air fryer nachos
Crispy, cheesy and full of flavor, nachos are so versatile that they’re suitable for lunch, dinner and as a great shared afternoon snack. This Mexican dish exploded in Australia in the 80s and is just as popular today. Now, with my handy air fryer, I can quickly whip up a batch of nachos in minutes. That’s right, my air fryer nachos are quick, easy, and incredibly delicious!
Nachos have been a favorite of mine for years. My first real date was at a Mexican restaurant and their nachos were unforgettable. This is also where I first tried many other Mexican dishes, such as enchiladas, tacos, quesadillas and, of course, the pleasure of the public, guacamole.
What I like about making nachos in the air fryer
My goal was to make these air fryer nachos incredibly quick and simple, using pantry staples, taco seasoning, and canned corn and beans for a true easy “all-in-one” recipe. A fantastic discovery was that the air fryer keeps the corn chips wonderfully crispy. To make the most of the air fryer’s deep basket, I layered the corn chips, cheese, and other ingredients while I built the nachos.
The result is perfect: all the chips stay crisp and the cheese is nicely melted, ensuring that this disappearing snack is enjoyed without a single soggy chip.
Key Ingredients for My Easy Air Fryer Nachos
- Black beans: a small can of black beans is just enough to add protein and make the nachos more filling. The taco seasoning sticks really well, so you get a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Corn kernels: little hints of sweetness and crunch come from the corn kernels that balance out the salty chips and spicy seasoning.
- Taco Seasoning Blend: Everyone’s favorite Mexican flavor packet in the pantry has to be taco seasoning mix. This spice blend is what gives this dish the flavor. nacho-y instead of just cheese chips.
- Corn chips: these crispy chips are the key ingredient and base of your nachos. They’re crunchy, salty, and sturdy enough to hold all the toppings without falling apart immediately. I recommend plain corn chips. Alternatively, you can use your favorite seasoned corn chips.
- Red onion: this adds a tangy, slightly sweet crunch that contrasts with the richness of the cheese and sour cream.
- Blend of 3 cheeses: this blend is the perfect balance of cheddar, parmesan and mozzarella. It adds sharpness and stretch in one combo.
- Mini grape tomatoes: these offer a fresh, juicy acidity to liven things up and keep it from seeming too heavy.
- Lawyer: creamy, refreshing and rich, it balances the spices and adds that buttery texture everyone loves.
- Coriander: this gives a grassy, citrus touch that enhances the whole dish and makes it taste fresher.
- Sour cream: this provides a fresh, zesty contrast to the heat and salt, and ties it all together.
Want to shake up Taco Tuesdays? Here is lots of good Mexican recipes to add to your weeknight repertoire.
This recipe was tested in a 7.3L basket air fryer.
Recipe and notes by Culinary Director Michelle Southan, photography by Nigel Lough, styling by Lucy Busuttil and food preparation by Lara Reynolds.
