Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground beef (at least 93% lean)
1 packet reduced-sodium taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 cup salsa (choose a low-sugar or fresh salsa)
1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt (as a substitute for sour cream)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 bag baked tortilla chips
Instructions:
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef according to the packet instructions. Simmer until the mixture thickens.
Assemble the Nachos:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, arrange the baked tortilla chips in a single layer.
Spread the seasoned ground beef over the chips.
Evenly distribute black beans over the beef.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Bake:
Place the nachos in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 8-10 minutes.
Add Toppings:
Remove from the oven and drizzle salsa over the nachos.
Dollop Greek yogurt over the top.
Sprinkle diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
Serve:
Serve immediately while the nachos are warm and the cheese is gooey
Weight Watchers-Friendly Beef Nachos SupremeI
Beef Nachos Supreme is a timeless favorite that blends crunchy textures and savory flavors into a delicious dish perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or game-day snacking. This recipe has been crafted with Weight Watchers in mind, keeping it as lean as possible without sacrificing the taste that makes nachos such a crowd-pleaser. Using lean ground beef, baked tortilla chips, low-fat cheese, and non-fat Greek yogurt as a healthy swap for sour cream, this recipe serves up a plateful of indulgence with a fraction of the calories and fat of traditional nachos.
This nacho recipe is an excellent example of how classic comfort foods can be modified to align with weight management goals. Each ingredient has been carefully chosen to deliver on taste and texture while being mindful of portion sizes and calorie counts. The result? A delicious, lightened-up version of beef nachos that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients Needed
For this Weight Watchers-friendly version of Beef Nachos Supreme, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef (at least 93% lean) – Using lean beef significantly reduces the fat content while still providing that hearty flavor and protein.
- 1 packet reduced-sodium taco seasoning – This seasoning adds the iconic taco flavor without excessive sodium, keeping the dish healthier.
- 1/2 cup water – Used to help the seasoning distribute evenly through the meat and create a saucy consistency.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – Black beans bring protein and fiber, adding nutrition and texture to the nachos.
- 1 cup reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend – A lighter cheese option that melts beautifully without adding too many calories.
- 1 cup salsa – Opt for a low-sugar or fresh salsa to keep the sodium and sugar levels down.
- 1 cup non-fat Greek yogurt – This healthier alternative to sour cream offers creaminess and protein.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced – Fresh cherry tomatoes provide a juicy, slightly sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced – Green onions add a mild, fresh onion flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a refreshing finish to the nachos.
- 1 bag baked tortilla chips – Baked chips are lower in fat and calories compared to traditional fried chips.
Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Lean Ground Beef
In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through, ensuring all pieces are cooked evenly. For extra health benefits, drain any excess fat from the pan. Reducing the fat content also prevents the nachos from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Seasoning the Meat
Once the beef is cooked, add the packet of reduced-sodium taco seasoning. Pour in 1/2 cup of water to help the seasoning mix evenly. Stir until well-combined, and allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens slightly, typically about 5 minutes. This will create a flavorful, saucy beef mixture that spreads well across the nachos.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
While the meat mixture simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for melting the cheese without burning the chips or drying out the ingredients.
Step 4: Arrange the Tortilla Chips
On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, spread the baked tortilla chips in a single layer. By laying out the chips evenly, you ensure that each chip gets a portion of the delicious toppings, creating a well-balanced dish.
Step 5: Adding the Beef and Black Beans
Evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef over the tortilla chips. Next, scatter the drained and rinsed black beans across the beef. The beans add a creamy texture and help balance the bold flavors of the beef and cheese.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the reduced-fat shredded Mexican cheese blend over the beef and beans. Be sure to cover each section so that every bite has a bit of melted cheese.
Step 7: Bake the Nachos
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling. Baking helps the flavors meld together and ensures a gooey, satisfying texture.
Step 8: Adding the Fresh Toppings
Once baked, remove the nachos from the oven and start adding your fresh toppings. Begin with a drizzle of salsa over the warm nachos. Then, add dollops of non-fat Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy contrast. Sprinkle the diced cherry tomatoes and sliced green onions over the top, followed by the chopped cilantro.
Step 9: Serving the Nachos
Serve the nachos immediately to enjoy them at their best. The cheese will still be warm and gooey, the chips crunchy, and the toppings fresh, making this a delicious treat to savor.
Tips for Making the Best Weight Watchers-Friendly Nachos
- Use High-Quality, Lean Meat: Opting for lean ground beef with 93% or more lean meat ensures you get plenty of protein without extra fat. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for even leaner options.
- Select Low-Fat Cheese Wisely: Reduced-fat cheese provides a good melt while cutting down on calories. If you prefer, you can use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a flavorful twist.
- Fresh Salsa for Flavor: Using fresh salsa or low-sugar varieties helps control sodium and sugar content. You can even make homemade salsa with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and lime juice for an added burst of freshness.
- Non-Fat Greek Yogurt as a Substitute: Greek yogurt offers a similar creaminess to sour cream but is lower in fat and higher in protein, making it an ideal swap for weight watchers.
- Add Color and Freshness with Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro not only bring vibrant color but also add freshness to each bite. The natural sweetness of tomatoes contrasts beautifully with the salty, savory flavors of the beef and cheese.
- Opt for Baked Tortilla Chips: Baked tortilla chips significantly reduce fat content. For added crunch, consider lightly toasting the chips in the oven before adding the toppings.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate this dish further, serve the nachos with a side of fresh guacamole, pico de gallo, or a vegetable platter with low-fat dip. This recipe pairs excellently with a light salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the nachos.
Nutritional Benefits of This Weight Watchers-Friendly Recipe
Each ingredient in this nacho recipe was selected with nutrition in mind. Ground beef provides high-quality protein, black beans add fiber and additional protein, and the baked tortilla chips offer a crunchy base with less fat. By using non-fat Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese, this recipe cuts down on unnecessary calories and saturated fat without compromising flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the beef and add extra black beans or pinto beans for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also include grilled veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor. - Can I use regular tortilla chips?
While baked tortilla chips are recommended for a healthier version, you can certainly use regular chips if you prefer. Keep in mind this will increase the calorie and fat content. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your taco seasoning and baked tortilla chips to ensure they’re gluten-free, as many brands offer gluten-free versions. Most other ingredients, including black beans, cheese, salsa, Greek yogurt, and vegetables, are naturally gluten-free.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 7g
- Fat: 10g
Final Thoughts on Weight Watchers-Friendly Beef Nachos Supreme
This recipe is a perfect example of how comfort foods can be modified to fit a balanced eating plan. With thoughtful ingredient swaps and an emphasis on lean protein and vegetables, this dish provides a nutritious, Weight Watchers-friendly take on classic beef nachos. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and highly customizable, making it a versatile option for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re watching your weight or just looking for a satisfying yet lighter snack, these beef nachos are a great addition to your culinary repertoire.