Ultimate Loaded Vegan Nachos: Your Go-To Easy & Cheesy Plant-Based Recipe
Get ready to indulge in these unbelievably delicious loaded vegan nachos! They are the perfect solution for satisfying those deep cravings for something rich, gooey, meaty, and cheesy, all while being entirely plant-based. Prepare yourself for a flavor explosion that will make you forget they’re vegan!
Nachos are truly a culinary masterpiece, a versatile dish that fits any occasion, whether it’s a quick midday snack, a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, or a hearty meal all on its own. These loaded vegan nachos embody everything I look for in a perfect platter of this beloved comfort food. They feature savory vegan crumbles and tender, flavorful black beans, delivering a satisfying “meaty” texture. Each bite is packed with delicious spice, and of course, an abundance of irresistibly gooey vegan cheese that’s sure to get delightfully all over your fingers. Whether you’re making them for a fun family dinner, a casual get-together, or an exciting game day spread, these nachos are guaranteed to be a hit every single time.
Why These Plant-Based Nachos Will Become Your Favorite
These loaded nachos have quickly become one of my most cherished go-to recipes, and for good reason! Here are the top three things that make them absolutely stand out:
- They don’t taste vegan. Seriously! The magic of these nachos lies in how expertly they use plant-based ingredients to replicate the familiar textures and flavors of traditional nachos. The seasoned vegan meat crumbles, infused with robust taco seasoning, offer a remarkably savory and authentic “meaty” experience. Meanwhile, the creamy and rich vegan cheese sauce melts beautifully, providing that essential gooey indulgence. Even the most ardent meat-eaters will be genuinely impressed and agree that these loaded nachos are truly outstanding in every way!
- They’re incredibly easy to make. While nachos might be a favorite food, nobody wants to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen, especially on a busy weeknight or when guests are waiting. This fantastic meal comes together in approximately 20 minutes from start to finish. With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you can have a magnificent platter of loaded nachos on the table in no time, making it perfect for spontaneous cravings or last-minute entertaining.
- They’re infinitely customizable. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the endless possibilities for personalization. The base recipe is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when you add your personal touch with a variety of toppings. You can make this recipe any day of the week, and by simply swapping out or adding different toppings, you can create a completely new and exciting experience each time. This flexibility makes them a dish you’ll never get tired of!
Essential Ingredients for Your Vegan Nachos
Crafting these delectable vegan loaded nachos requires just a few simple, accessible ingredients. Below is a list of everything you’ll need; for the precise measurements and quantities, please refer to the detailed recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this page.
- Corn chips – The foundation of any great nacho dish! You have the freedom to choose your favorite variety, whether they are classic white, vibrant yellow, or even striking blue corn chips. Opt for sturdy, restaurant-style chips that can hold up to generous toppings without breaking.
- Vegan crumbles – These plant-based meat substitutes are crucial for that satisfying “meaty” texture. Any brand you prefer will work beautifully in this recipe. Just ensure they are cooked according to their package directions before you begin assembling your nachos, as this will help them absorb the seasoning properly.
- Black beans – A staple in Mexican cuisine, black beans add a hearty, earthy flavor and an excellent source of protein and fiber. Be sure to purchase plain black beans, not pre-seasoned varieties, so you can control the flavor profile. They should be thoroughly drained and rinsed before use to remove excess sodium and starchy liquid. Pinto beans could also be a delicious alternative!
- Water – Essential for hydrating the taco seasoning and creating a flavorful sauce for the vegan crumbles.
- Taco seasoning – The key to imparting that authentic, zesty Mexican flavor. You can use a store-bought blend for convenience or whip up your own homemade version.
- Vegan cheese sauce – This is where the magic happens, providing all the gooey, cheesy goodness without any dairy. My go-to recipe for vegan cheese sauce is incredibly rich and creamy, ensuring your nachos are perfectly drenched in deliciousness.
What Exactly Is Taco Seasoning?
Taco seasoning is a vibrant and aromatic blend of spices specifically designed to elevate the flavor of Mexican-inspired dishes. Typically, it includes a harmonious combination of common pantry spices such as savory onion powder, pungent garlic powder, smoky chili powder, sweet paprika, and fragrant oregano. Often, it also features earthy cumin, which adds a distinct warmth, and sometimes a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. While readily available in most grocery stores for ultimate convenience, you can easily create your own taco seasoning from scratch if you’re in a pinch or prefer to customize the spice levels. Simply combine these individual ingredients to achieve a fresh and personalized blend.
How to Prepare Your Loaded Vegan Nachos
Making these super quick and incredibly easy loaded vegan nachos is a breeze. Just follow these straightforward steps:
- Step 1: Prep your workspace. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures it’s ready to warm your nachos to perfection. Next, line a large baking sheet with either aluminum foil or parchment paper. This simple step will make cleanup significantly easier once you’ve devoured your delicious creation.
- Step 2: Season the vegan crumbles. Place your cooked vegan crumbles into a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the taco seasoning and about half a cup of water to the skillet. Stir the mixture well to ensure the crumbles are evenly coated with the seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until all the water has completely evaporated and the crumbles are fragrant and well-seasoned. This process infuses the crumbles with deep flavor.
- Step 3: Incorporate the beans. Once the water has cooked away from the crumbles, pour the drained and rinsed black beans directly into the skillet with the seasoned crumbles. Stir everything together gently to combine. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the beans to heat through and meld their flavors with the seasoned crumbles.
- Step 4: Assemble your nacho masterpiece. On your prepared baking sheet, lay down an even single layer of corn chips. Next, generously spoon a portion of the hot vegan crumble and black bean mixture over the chips, ensuring good coverage. Then, drizzle a good amount of your luscious vegan cheese sauce over this layer. To create truly loaded nachos, repeat this process to build a second layer, adding more chips, the crumble/bean mixture, and another generous pour of cheese sauce. The key is to distribute the toppings evenly so every chip gets some goodness!
- Step 5: A quick bake. Carefully place the baking sheet into your preheated oven. Bake for a short duration of 5-6 minutes. Since all the components are already cooked and hot, the primary goal here is simply to warm the chips slightly and allow the cheese sauce to get extra gooey and meld with the other ingredients. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Step 6: Serve immediately and enjoy! Once warmed to perfection, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Now comes the best part: pile on all your favorite fresh toppings (see ideas below!) and serve these incredible loaded vegan nachos immediately while they are hot and crispy. Dig in and savor every single bite!
Top Tips for Perfect Vegan Nachos Every Time
To ensure your loaded vegan nachos are absolutely perfect and hit all the right spots, keep these helpful tricks and tips in mind:
- Always adjust the seasoning to taste. After you’ve cooked the black beans with the vegan crumbles, take a moment to taste the mixture. Flavor preferences vary, so this is your opportunity to fine-tune the seasoning. If the mixture tastes a bit bland or too mild for your liking, don’t hesitate to add another half-tablespoon or full tablespoon of taco seasoning. Stir it in thoroughly and taste again until you reach your desired level of spice and savoriness.
- Prevent overcrowding the chips. One of the most common nacho pitfalls is uneven distribution of toppings, leading to that sad situation where you’ve eaten all the delicious toppings but are left with a pile of naked, plain chips. To avoid this disappointment, when assembling your nachos, always lay down the corn chips in a single, even layer on the baking sheet. Resist the urge to pile them up too high, as this will prevent the toppings and cheese from reaching every chip, ensuring a perfectly balanced and flavorful bite every time.
- Keep a watchful eye on the oven. Once your assembled nachos are in the oven, it’s crucial to stay vigilant. The purpose of baking at this stage is to gently warm the chips and melt the cheese further, not to cook the ingredients. Corn chips can go from perfectly warm and crisp to burnt in a matter of seconds. Watch them closely; if you notice the edges of the chips starting to darken or change color, remove the nachos from the oven immediately to prevent them from burning and becoming bitter.
- Prep your toppings beforehand. To ensure a smooth and quick assembly process once the nachos come out of the oven, have all your chosen toppings chopped, sliced, and ready to go. This “mise en place” approach means you can add them immediately to the hot nachos, ensuring maximum freshness and enjoyment.
Irresistible Topping Ideas for Your Vegan Nachos
The beauty of these loaded vegan nachos is how wonderfully they pair with a vast array of fresh and flavorful toppings. There’s truly no limit to what you can add to elevate your nacho experience. Here are some of my all-time favorites, guaranteed to add incredible taste and texture:
- Chopped tomatoes. Freshly diced tomatoes introduce a bright, juicy, and slightly acidic element that beautifully cuts through the richness of the vegan meat, beans, and cheese. They add a burst of garden-fresh flavor.
- Pico de gallo. A classic Mexican salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños. Similar to plain tomatoes, pico de gallo offers a wonderfully fresh, light, and zesty counterpoint that perfectly balances the heavier components of the nachos.
- Salsa. An absolute must-have for any nacho enthusiast! Whether you prefer mild, medium, or spicy, chunky or smooth, salsa adds an essential layer of tangy, spicy, and savory flavor that complements the chips and toppings flawlessly.
- Vegan sour cream. I consider vegan sour cream an essential topping, especially when dealing with spicy ingredients. Its cool, creamy, and tangy profile provides a soothing contrast, helping to calm your palate when the heat from the jalapeños or seasoning kicks in.
- Jalapeños. For those who love a bit of a kick, adding slices of jalapeños is a fantastic choice. You can use fresh jalapeños for a crisp, bright heat, or pickled jalapeños for a softer texture and a tangy, vinegary zing.
- Olives. Black olives are a traditional and popular addition to loaded nachos. They contribute a lovely mild saltiness and a distinct, slightly chewy texture that many find irresistible.
- Guacamole. Is there anything better than chips and guacamole? A generous scoop of creamy, homemade guacamole adds a luxurious richness, healthy fats, and an incredibly satisfying flavor profile to your nachos.
- Sliced avocado. If guacamole isn’t on hand, simple slices of fresh avocado are an excellent alternative. They still deliver that wonderful creamy texture and subtle, buttery flavor, adding a layer of indulgence to the dish.
- Cilantro. A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro is a classic finishing touch. Its bright, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy notes add an incredible burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish.
- Green onion. I’m a huge advocate for adding chopped green onions (scallions) to loaded nachos. They provide a delicate oniony flavor, a subtle crunch, and another layer of refreshing sharpness that wonderfully complements the other ingredients.
Storing Your Vegan Nachos
While these vegan nachos are undeniably at their absolute best when served fresh, still hot and crispy from the oven, you can certainly store any leftovers. Place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to note, however, that the corn chips will inevitably start to absorb moisture and lose their signature crispness, becoming a bit softer. This means the texture of the reheated nachos won’t quite match the freshly made version. To reheat them, spread the nachos evenly on a baking sheet and warm them in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 5 minutes, or until they are heated through.
Can I Freeze This Vegan Nacho Recipe?
Generally, I do not recommend freezing the assembled vegan nachos. The delicate texture of corn chips does not hold up well to freezing and subsequent thawing; they tend to become unfortunately soggy and lose all their pleasant crunch. However, if you’re looking for a way to prepare ahead, you can absolutely freeze the cooked vegan meat and black bean mixture! Store this flavorful mixture in an airtight container in your freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for your next batch of loaded vegan nachos, simply thaw the mixture, reheat it, and then proceed with the rest of the recipe. This makes future nacho nights much quicker and easier!
More Delicious Vegan Mexican Recipes to Explore
If you loved these incredibly flavorful loaded vegan nachos, then you’re definitely in for a treat with these other fantastic Mexican-inspired recipes. They are some of my personal favorites and are sure to satisfy your cravings for vibrant, plant-based flavors:
- Flavorful Vegan Sofritas
- Authentic Vegan Birria Tacos
- Hearty Mexican Breakfast Burritos
- Cheesy Mexican Quesadillas with Avocado Cilantro Cream Sauce
- Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
- Delicious Vegan Arepas
Enjoy, friends! If you whip up these incredible loaded vegan nachos, please do me a huge favor and snap a photo! Tag#jessicainthekitchen onInstagram. I’d absolutely love to see your creations! Also, don’t forget to leave a comment below and give the recipe a well-deserved rating. Your feedback means the world to me! Thanks so much for your support!
Loaded Vegan Nachos
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Ingredients
For the Nachos:
- 1 bag corn chips
- 10 ounces vegan crumbles, cooked according to package
- 1 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 cup vegan cheese sauce
Optional Toppings:
- Tomatoes
- Pico de gallo
- Salsa
- Vegan sour cream
- Jalapeños
- Olives
- Guacamole
- Avocado
- Cilantro
- Green onion
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉/180℃ degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment or aluminum foil.
- Add the cooked vegan crumbles, water and taco seasoning to a large skillet. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the water has cooked away.
- Add the black beans to the taco crumbles and stir. Cook for another 5 minutes to heat the beans.
- Put a layer of corn chips on the prepared baking sheet. Top with the crumble/bean mixture. Then top with a little vegan cheese sauce. Add another layer of chips, followed by the crumble/bean mixture, and vegan cheese.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5-6 minutes, just to warm the chips.
- Remove from the oven and top with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- For the cheese sauce, I use this recipe.
- Adjust the taco seasoning after cooking the vegan meat crumble and beans.
- Don’t overcrowd the chips in the baking sheet.
- Keep an eye on the oven to make sure the chips don’t burn.
- The nachos are best served fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in a 325F oven for 5 minutes.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.