Easy Campfire Nachos with Melty Cheese Layers

These Easy Campfire Nachos with Melty Cheese Layers are a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for your next outdoor adventure. With layers of crispy tortilla chips, gooey melted cheese, and all your favorite nacho toppings, this campfire treat is quick to make and even quicker to devour. The best part? You can prepare everything right over the campfire or grill for the ultimate easy meal.

Ingredients

• Tortilla chips – 1 large bag (preferably thick chips for sturdy layering)

• Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)

• Black beans – 1 cup, drained and rinsed (optional)

• Jalapeños – 2-3, sliced (optional for some heat)

• Ground beef or chicken – 1 cup, cooked and seasoned (optional)

• Sour cream – For serving

• Guacamole – For serving

• Salsa – For serving

• Cilantro – Fresh, chopped, for garnish

• Lime wedges – For serving

• Olive oil – For greasing the campfire pan or foil (optional)

Step 1: Prepare Your Campfire Setup

Set up your campfire or grill with medium heat. You’ll need a stable grate or campfire-safe pan for cooking. If you’re using a pan, lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Layer the Nachos

On a campfire-safe pan or in a foil packet, spread a generous layer of tortilla chips at the bottom. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the chips. Add any optional toppings, like black beans, jalapeños, and cooked ground meat (beef or chicken), making sure each layer is covered.

Repeat the process by layering more chips, cheese, and toppings until you have about 3-4 layers. Finish with a top layer of cheese for that melty finish.

Step 3: Cook the Nachos

Place the pan on the grill or over the campfire, using indirect heat to avoid burning the chips. Cover the pan with a lid, foil, or a heatproof cover to help melt the cheese evenly. Cook for about 5-10 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the cheese melts and the chips stay crisp.

Alternatively, if you’re using a foil packet, fold the sides and seal tightly, then place it over the coals for about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to check periodically to ensure nothing burns.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese is perfectly melted, remove the nachos from the heat. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Garnish with chopped cilantro and squeeze a little lime juice over the top for added freshness.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and olives.

• Cheese Options: Add a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Queso Blanco, or Pepper Jack for variety.

• Make It Spicy: Add extra sliced jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or some chili flakes for more heat.

• Foil Packets for Easy Clean-Up: If you’re cooking in the wild, use foil packets to avoid using a pan—just layer everything in the foil, fold it up, and cook directly over the fire.

These Easy Campfire Nachos with Melty Cheese Layers are the ultimate way to enjoy a delicious, shareable meal under the stars. Perfect for camping trips, picnics, or just a fun night around the fire.