Name: Southern Shrimp Beef Nachos
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 large bag sturdy tortilla chips; 1 lb ground beef (about 450 g); 10 –14 oz peeled and deveined shrimp (about 300–400 g); 1 –2 teaspoons taco seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1½ –2 cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese; 1 medium tomato (diced); ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped); Sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled (optional)); Fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped); Sour cream (for serving); Lime wedges (for serving)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Southern Shrimp & Beef Nachos bring a flavorful surf-and-turf twist to the classic nacho experience. This hearty dish layers perfectly seasoned ground beef and succulent shrimp over crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and fresh toppings — creating a feast that delights both meat and seafood lovers alike. It’s ideal for game nights, casual dinners, or sharing with friends and family when craving a comforting, indulgent snack.

The combination of smoky spices, juicy proteins, gooey cheese, and zesty fresh garnishes elevates these nachos beyond ordinary. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main course, these nachos promise bold Southern flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A rich surf-and-turf flavor pairing mixing seasoned ground beef and shrimp for layered taste.
Convenient to prepare with simple ingredients perfect for gatherings and casual meals.
Customizable spice and toppings to match your heat preference and freshness.

Ingredients

1 large bag sturdy tortilla chips: Provides a crunchy, supportive base that holds all the toppings without sogginess.
~450 g (approx. 1 lb) ground beef: Forms the savory and hearty protein layer with robust seasoning.
~300–400 g (approx. 10–14 oz) peeled and deveined shrimp: Adds juicy, tender seafood flavor balanced with beef.
1–2 teaspoons taco seasoning: Infuses the proteins with classic Southwestern spices for depth and aroma.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smoky color and warm earthiness enhancing both beef and shrimp.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides subtle pungent notes to elevate savory flavors.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers sweetness and complexity to the seasoning blend.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing natural flavors.
1½–2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar & Monterey Jack or Mexican blend): Melts creamy and stringy, binding the toppings on the chips.
1 medium tomato, diced: Adds fresh, juicy brightness with a hint of acidity.
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Provides crunch and sharpness to contrast the rich meats.
Sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled, optional): Brings heat and a zesty bite, adjusting spiciness to preference.
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped: Harnesses herbaceous freshness and color as garnish.
Sour cream, for serving: Adds creamy cooling flavor to balance spices.
Lime wedges, for serving: Offers bright acidity that enhances the layered flavors.

Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink. Season thoroughly with taco seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to develop a bold and balanced flavor profile. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy, then set the beef aside.
Cook the Shrimp: Using the same skillet or a separate one, warm a little oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2 to 4 minutes until they turn pink and become opaque, ensuring they remain tender without overcooking. Remove from heat and keep aside for layering.
Arrange the Base Chips: Lay the sturdy tortilla chips in a single, even layer on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter. This ensures every chip gets covered and the cheese melts evenly across the surface, preventing overcrowding which could lead to sogginess.
Add Proteins and Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the seasoned ground beef over the chips, then layer the cooked shrimp on top. Generously cover the proteins with your shredded cheese blend to ensure a gooey, melty top layer that binds the ingredients together beautifully.
Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled nachos under a hot broiler or bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 5 to 8 minutes. Watch closely for bubbling and golden cheese to ensure the melt is perfect without burning. This step transforms the dish into a warm, irresistibly gooey feast.
Add Fresh Toppings: Remove the nachos from the oven and scatter the diced tomato, chopped red onion, and jalapeños evenly on top. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh, bright contrast that complements the rich proteins and cheese.
Serve with Cool Accents: Finish by drizzling or dolloping sour cream over the nachos for creamy tang. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side to add a juicy, zesty squeeze that enhances all the flavors.

You Must Know

For best texture, serve these nachos immediately after melting the cheese to prevent chips from becoming soggy.
Customize your heat level by adjusting jalapeños or adding your favorite hot sauce for a personalized kick.
You can replace or mix the proteins with sausage, pulled pork, or chicken to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven to help restore crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent soggy chips.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these nachos with a chilled Mexican lager or a citrusy margarita for a fully themed Southern fiesta experience. Serve with side guacamole or fresh salsa to add more freshness and creaminess to the meal.

Professional Tips

Use sturdy tortilla chips or a mix with crispy fries for an interesting texture variety.
Homemade cheese sauce drizzled under or over the shredded cheese enhances richness and topping adhesion.
For perfectly cooked shrimp, watch carefully to avoid overcooking which leads to rubbery texture.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?: You can pre-cook the proteins and chop toppings in advance; assemble and melt the nachos just before serving to keep chips crisp.
What’s the best cheese for melting on nachos?: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend offers great meltability and flavor balance.
Can I make this vegetarian?: Yes! Substitute the beef and shrimp with seasoned beans or grilled vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian version.
How spicy are these nachos?: The recipe includes mild to moderate heat, but jalapeños and additional spices can be added to increase spiciness as desired.
Can I freeze leftovers?: Freezing is not recommended as the chips will become soggy upon thawing; best to enjoy fresh or refrigerated leftovers soon after.
What is the best way to reheat leftover nachos?: Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at low heat until warmed through and chips regain some crunch; avoid microwave reheating.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?: Yes, just warm pre-cooked shrimp briefly in the skillet with some seasoning before adding to the nachos.