A perfect blend of land and sea, these Southern Surf & Turf Nachos are loaded with seasoned ground beef, Cajun-spiced shrimp, and a rich cheese topping. They’re ideal for game days, parties, or anytime you want a bold, indulgent snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together the best of surf and turf in a fun, shareable way. The combination of crispy tortilla chips, savory beef, spicy shrimp, and gooey cheese makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s customizable—you can add extra toppings like jalapeños or avocado for a personal twist.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 bag tortilla chips
1 cup cooked ground beef (seasoned to taste)
1 cup cooked shrimp (seasoned with Cajun spice)
1 ½ cups nacho cheese sauce
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread the tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet.
Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef and Cajun-seasoned shrimp over the chips.
Drizzle the nacho cheese sauce over the chips, beef, and shrimp.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake in the oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley on top if desired.
Serve immediately while warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6 people
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 22 minutes
Variations
Swap the ground beef for seasoned chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for extra spice.
Add sliced jalapeños, black olives, or diced tomatoes for more flavor and color.
Substitute tortilla chips with sweet potato chips for a twist on the classic.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to keep the chips crispy.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chips soggy.
FAQs
What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?
Medium or large shrimp work best. Pre-cooked or raw shrimp can be used, but raw should be fully cooked before adding to the nachos.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the ground beef and shrimp, and add beans, grilled veggies, or plant-based protein instead.
How spicy are these nachos?
The spiciness depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust it to taste or substitute with a milder seasoning if desired.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the toppings in advance, but assemble and bake the nachos just before serving to maintain crispiness.
What type of cheese is best?
A combination of nacho cheese sauce and shredded cheddar gives the best flavor and melt. You can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack.
Can I freeze these nachos?
Freezing is not recommended as the chips will lose their crunch. Store only leftovers in the fridge.
How can I make them extra crispy?
Serve immediately after baking. Using thicker tortilla chips helps maintain crispiness.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Yes, just use a larger baking sheet or multiple sheets and adjust cooking time slightly to ensure even melting.
Are these nachos gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free tortilla chips and ensure the cheese sauce contains no gluten ingredients.
Can I add a sauce on top?
Yes, drizzle with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Southern Surf & Turf Nachos are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines bold flavors and textures in every bite. They’re easy to prepare, perfect for sharing, and endlessly customizable, making them a must-try for any occasion.
