These Loaded Keto Beef Nachos take classic nachos up a notch with homemade taco-seasoned beef, rich tomato-wrapped beef sauce, gooey keto cheese, and crispy low-carb chips. Perfect for movie nights, game days, or anytime you want that indulgent nacho experience without the carbs!
🧾 Recipe Card
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Dietary Tags: Keto, Low-Carb, High-Fat, Gluten-Free (check chip labels)
Ingredients Checklist
Taco Seasoning
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tbsp onion powder
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1 tsp cumin
Nacho Beef
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1 lb ground beef
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6 oz tomato paste
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3 cups water
Nachos
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1 cup shredded keto cheese
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~30 low-carb/keto chips (individual snack packs work great)
I. Why You’ll Love It
All the flavor of cheesy, spicy nachos—completely keto-friendly and oven-free! The tomato-and-water mixture simmers into a rich beef sauce, while the taco seasoning amps up the savory punch. Dinner plate or snack bowl, this one’s a classy, low-carb treat.
II. Step‑by‑Step Guide 🌮
1. Season the Beef
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up. Sprinkle on garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin—stir to coat everything in flavor.
2. Add Tomato Sauce
Add tomato paste and 3 cups of water to the pan. Stir until smooth. Simmer 5 minutes (or until sauce thickens slightly).
Tip: If it’s too thick, add more water; too soupy, simmer a bit longer.
3. Plate the Nachos
Arrange low-carb chips on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the saucy taco beef over the chips.
4. Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded keto-friendly cheese over the top. It’ll melt gently from the hot beef—but feel free to broil briefly if you want it bubbly (just watch it closely).
5. Serve & Enjoy
Dig in hot and cheesy! Add toppings, dips, or fresh herbs as desired.
III. Ingredient Tips & Swaps
| Ingredient | Why It Works | Substitutions & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | Protein-rich base with rich flavor | Swap with ground lamb, turkey, or chorizo |
| Tomato paste + water | Creates thick, savory sauce | Use beef broth for deeper flavor |
| Keto cheese | Melts beautifully without excess carbs | Use cheddar, Monterey jack, or Colby jack |
| Keto chips | Keeps it low-carb but crunchy | Try cheese crisps or pork rinds for alternative crunch |
IV. Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Boosters:
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Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes for heat
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Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or avocado cream
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Top with salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, green onions, or pickled onions
Meal Idea:
Serve with a side salad of lettuce, olives, cucumber, and lime-cilantro dressing for a full meal.
V. Storage & Meal Prep
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Fridge: Store beef mixture separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Assemble with fresh chips when ready to eat.
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Freezer: Freeze beef mixture in single portions for up to 3 months. Remember to double-wrap and label.
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Reheat: Microwave gently or reheat on stovetop with a splash of water/broth. Add cheese and chips fresh.
VI. Nutrition Highlights (approx. per serving)
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Calories: ~380 kcal
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Protein: ~23 g | Carbs: ~7 g net | Fat: ~28 g
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Sodium: Varies by chips and cheese—choose low-sodium if desired
VII. FAQs
Q: Can I add more seasoning?
A: Totally—add chili powder, smoked paprika, or taco seasoning blend to taste.
Q: My cheese didn’t melt well—help?
A: Heat the beef longer after adding the cheese or broil for 1–2 minutes to melt evenly.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes—swap beef for seasoned tofu, tempeh, or cauliflower “beef,” and use veggie broth instead of beef.
VIII. Kristy’s Nacho Night Tip
I always double the beef mixture and freeze half for later. On movie night, fresh chips, warm beef, and melty cheese are always a hit—even better with homemade guac and lime-laced salsa on the side.
IX. More Keto Snack-Crunch Favorites
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[Keto Taco Stuffed Bell Peppers]
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[Low-Carb Buffalo Chicken Dip]
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[Cheesy Bacon Ranch Stuffed Mushrooms]
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[Keto Zucchini Nacho Boats]
X. Let’s Munch and Crunch! 🎉
Made these Loaded Keto Beef Nachos? I want to see! Tag me @KristyCookEats or drop a comment below with your favorite toppings. Let’s make every nacho night satisfying, flavorful, and low-carb!