When I want a quick and comforting meal that doesn’t require much effort, I always make these air fryer nachos. They turn out crispy, cheesy, and satisfying in just a few minutes. I love how this method avoids soggy chips and gives me a perfectly balanced plate every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it is incredibly fast and reliable. I don’t need to turn on the oven, and I still get evenly melted cheese with crunchy chips. I also enjoy how easy it is to customize, since I can add different toppings after cooking and adjust each serving to my taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cups tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend
1/2 cup pico de gallo (optional)
1/3 cup sour cream (optional)
1 avocado, sliced or diced (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Directions
I begin by placing a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil in the bottom of my air fryer basket, letting it cover the base and slightly rise up the sides without blocking airflow.
Next, I build the nachos in two layers. I add half of the tortilla chips, sprinkle over half of the shredded cheese, then repeat with the remaining chips and cheese. This layering helps every chip get coated with cheese.
I air fry the nachos at 325°F (162°C) for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted. I like to keep an eye on them the first time I make them, since air fryers can heat differently.
Once finished, I carefully lift the parchment or foil out of the basket and transfer the nachos to a serving plate. I then add my favorite toppings and serve them right away.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes about 2 servings as a main meal or 3 to 4 servings as a snack.
Prep time is approximately 2 minutes, and cook time is about 5 minutes, making the total time under 10 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor or try a dairy-free cheese that melts well. When I want to add more texture and freshness, I top the nachos with extra salsa, sliced olives, or diced tomatoes after cooking.
Storage/Reheating
I think these nachos are best enjoyed fresh. If I have leftovers with only chips and cheese, I store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them back in the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed and crispy again. Nachos with fresh toppings are best eaten within one day.
FAQs
Can I make air fryer nachos without parchment paper or foil?
I can, but I prefer using parchment paper or foil because it keeps the basket clean and makes removing the nachos easier.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
I don’t preheat the air fryer for this recipe. The cheese melts evenly without it, and it saves time.
What temperature is best for air fryer nachos?
I use 325°F because it melts the cheese without burning the chips.
Can I add toppings before cooking?
I usually wait and add toppings after cooking so the chips stay crispy and don’t absorb extra moisture.
How do I keep nachos from burning in the air fryer?
I check them as they cook, especially the first time, since each air fryer heats a little differently.
Conclusion
These air fryer nachos are one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something fast, crispy, and comforting. I love how simple they are to make and how easy it is to customize them every time.
These Air Fryer Nachos are a fast, crispy, and cheesy snack or meal made in under 10 minutes. Perfect for quick cravings, they are customizable and require no oven.
Total Time:7 minutes
Yield:2 main or 3–4 snack servings
Ingredients
4 cups tortilla chips
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby, or blend)
1/2 cup pico de gallo (optional)
1/3 cup sour cream (optional)
1 avocado, sliced or diced (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Line the bottom of the air fryer basket with parchment paper or foil, allowing the edges to rise slightly.
Layer half of the tortilla chips and sprinkle with half of the cheese. Repeat with the remaining chips and cheese.
Air fry at 325°F (162°C) for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Carefully remove the nachos using the parchment or foil and transfer to a serving plate.
Add optional toppings like pico de gallo, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use parchment or foil to prevent mess and for easy removal.
Check nachos while cooking to avoid burning, as air fryer models vary.
Add fresh toppings after cooking to preserve crispiness.
