Crave Worthy Breakfast Nachos (2025)

Who says nachos are just for game nights and snack time? If you’ve never tried breakfast nachos, you’re in for a treat! This morning-friendly twist on a classic favorite combines crispy tortilla chips, gooey melted cheese, savory proteins, and fresh toppings—creating a meal that’s both hearty and indulgent.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast, a brunch showstopper, or a fun weekend recipe, breakfast nachos can be customized to fit your cravings. Plus they can be easily adapted to fit low-carb, gluten-free, vegetarian, or Mediterranean lifestyles.

So grab your tortilla chips, and let’s dive in!

What Are Breakfast Nachos?

At their core, breakfast nachos are just like your favorite late-night snack, but with a morning twist. Instead of the usual nacho toppings like ground beef and sour cream, these nachos are loaded with scrambled eggs, melted cheese, crispy bacon, avocado, and salsa—creating a perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and bold flavors.

The beauty of breakfast nachos lies in their customizability. Want a Tex-Mex kick? Add chorizo and jalapeños. Craving something healthier? Swap out the chips for sweet potatoes or low-carb alternatives. No matter your preference, there’s a version for everyone!

A Brief History of Nachos and Their Breakfast Twist

The original nachos were invented in 1943 by Ignacio “Nacho” Anaya, a chef in Mexico who whipped up a quick snack for some hungry customers. His creation—fried tortillas with melted cheese and jalapeños—became a worldwide favorite.

Fast-forward to today, and nachos have evolved into countless variations, including this delicious breakfast version! Inspired by the Tex-Mex fusion trend, breakfast nachos have gained popularity in brunch menus and home kitchens alike.

From cheesy, indulgent nachos to light, health-conscious versions, there’s a breakfast nachos recipe for every taste and lifestyle.

Essential Ingredients for the Best Breakfast Nachos

A great plate of breakfast nachos starts with quality ingredients. Choosing the right chips, cheese, proteins, and toppings makes all the difference between a soggy mess and crispy, flavor-packed nachos.

Choosing the Right Tortilla Chips or Alternatives

• Thick, sturdy tortilla chips – Hold up well against eggs and melted cheese.
• Restaurant-style tortilla chips – A classic option, though they tend to soften quickly.
• Baked tortilla chips – A lighter, healthier alternative with less oil.
• Homemade chips – Made from corn or flour tortillas for maximum freshness.
• Sweet potato or plantain chips – A great low-carb or gluten-free option.

💡 Pro Tip: To keep your nachos crispy, toast the chips in the oven for 5 minutes at 375°F before adding toppings!

Best Cheeses for a Gooey, Melty Topping

• Cheddar – Sharp and bold, perfect for classic nachos.
• Monterey Jack – Melts beautifully for a creamy texture.
• Pepper Jack – Adds a spicy kick to your nachos.
• Mexican blend cheese – A mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and asadero cheese.
• Queso fresco – A crumbly, mild cheese that works well as a topping.

💡 Pro Tip: Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-packaged shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes richer!

Protein Options: Eggs, Bacon, Sausage & More

• Scrambled eggs – Light and fluffy, the perfect base for nachos.
• Fried eggs – A runny yolk adds extra richness.
• Bacon crumbles – Crispy and smoky, a breakfast favorite.
• Sausage crumbles – Spicy chorizo or breakfast sausage work well.
• Black beans or refried beans – A hearty vegetarian option.

💡 Pro Tip: Want extra protein? Add shredded chicken, steak, or tofu!

Fresh & Flavorful Toppings: Avocado, Salsa, and More

• Avocado slices or guacamole – Adds a creamy, rich element.
• Pico de gallo or salsa – Brings freshness and a tangy bite.
• Jalapeños – For those who love heat!
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Helps balance out the spice.
• Cilantro & green onions – Adds a fresh, herbal touch.

Try this fantastic recipe for Gluten-free Irish Soda Bread next!

How to Make Breakfast Nachos – Step-by-Step Recipe

Making breakfast nachos is super easy, but layering ingredients properly ensures crispiness and even flavor distribution. Follow this step-by-step guide for perfect nachos every time!

Step 1: Preparing the Base – Choosing and Layering Your Chips

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a single layer of tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter.
3. Lightly toast the chips for 5 minutes to help them stay crisp under the toppings.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overlapping chips too much—this helps each chip get an even amount of toppings!

Step 2: Cooking and Adding the Perfect Protein

1. In a skillet, cook your protein of choice (bacon, sausage, or chorizo) until browned and crispy. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate pan, scramble the eggs until just set. You want them soft and fluffy, not overcooked.
3. Spread the cooked eggs and protein evenly over the chips.

💡 Pro Tip: Want extra flavor? Sauté onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for an added veggie boost!

Step 3: Melting Cheese & Creating a Flavorful Sauce

1. Sprinkle your favorite cheese evenly over the nachos.
2. Return to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
3. While the nachos bake, prepare a quick nacho cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, then adding warm milk and shredded cheese. Stir until smooth.

💡 Pro Tip: Drizzling warm queso over nachos prevents dry bites and adds creaminess!

Step 4: Finishing Touches – Fresh Garnishes and Toppings

1. Remove nachos from the oven and immediately add fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, cilantro, and sour cream.
2. If you love spice, sprinkle on jalapeños or hot sauce.
3. Serve immediately while everything is warm and crispy!

💡 Pro Tip: A squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving enhances the flavors beautifully!

The Ultimate Guide to Breakfast Nachos: Recipes, Variations & Tips

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• Author: Nina
• Total Time: 25 min
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

Start your morning with a plate of crispy, cheesy, and protein-packed breakfast nachos! This easy and delicious recipe combines golden tortilla chips, fluffy scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and savory bacon or sausage, making it the perfect dish for brunch, weekend breakfasts, or even breakfast-for-dinner!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Nachos:

• 6 cups tortilla chips (restaurant-style or baked)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup cooked bacon or breakfast sausage, crumbled
• ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil (for cooking eggs)

Toppings (Optional but Recommended):

• 1 avocado, sliced or mashed
• ½ cup salsa or pico de gallo
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup chopped green onions or cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (for extra spice)
• ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon or sausage in a pan until crispy, then crumble into pieces.
3. Shred the cheese and set aside.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

1. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the eggs into the skillet and scramble until soft and fluffy. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Nachos

1. Spread the tortilla chips on a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish.
2. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the chips.
3. Add scrambled eggs, cooked bacon (or sausage), and black beans evenly over the chips.
4. Top with the remaining cheese.

Step 4: Bake Until Cheesy & Crispy

1. Place the nachos in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Toppings & Serve

1. Garnish with avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, green onions, and jalapeños.
2. Drizzle with hot sauce, if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

✔️ Crispy Chip Hack: Toast tortilla chips in the oven for 5 minutes before adding toppings to prevent sogginess.
✔️ Healthier Option: Use baked tortilla chips, swap Greek yogurt for sour cream, and add extra veggies like bell peppers.
✔️ Make It Spicy: Add chorizo, extra jalapeños, or hot sauce for a Tex-Mex kick.
✔️ Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to keep them crispy.

• Prep Time: 10 min
• Cook Time: 15 min

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of the nachos)
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 230 mg

Variations of Breakfast Nachos

One of the best things about breakfast nachos is how versatile they are! Whether you’re craving classic bacon and eggs, a lighter, veggie-packed version, or something with a spicy Tex-Mex twist, there’s a variation to match your taste.

Classic Bacon & Egg Breakfast Nachos

For those who love traditional breakfast flavors, this version is simple, hearty, and satisfying.

Key Ingredients:

• Crispy tortilla chips
• Scrambled eggs
• Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, melted
• Crispy bacon crumbles
• Sour cream and chives for topping

How to Make It:

1. Follow the basic breakfast nachos recipe, using scrambled eggs and bacon as the main protein.
2. Bake until the cheese is bubbly, then top with sour cream and fresh chives.
3. Serve immediately for the perfect balance of salty, creamy, and crunchy.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet-savory contrast!

Healthy Breakfast Nachos with Avocado & Veggies

Looking for a lighter, nutrient-packed option? This version swaps out heavier ingredients for fresh, wholesome toppings.

Key Ingredients:

• Baked tortilla chips (or whole wheat chips)
• Scrambled egg whites
• Black beans for plant-based protein
• Fresh diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream

How to Make It:

1. Bake tortilla chips, then top with scrambled egg whites and black beans.
2. Sprinkle on veggies and cheese, then bake until warm.
3. Finish with avocado slices, Greek yogurt, and fresh cilantro.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness!

Tex-Mex Style Breakfast Nachos with Chorizo

For those who love bold, spicy flavors, this Tex-Mex version is a game-changer.

Key Ingredients:

• Corn tortilla chips
• Spicy chorizo sausage, cooked
• Scrambled eggs with a hint of cumin and paprika
• Pepper Jack cheese, melted
• Fresh pico de gallo and jalapeños for heat
• A drizzle of hot sauce or chipotle mayo

How to Make It:

1. Cook chorizo and drain excess grease.
2. Scramble eggs with spices and layer them over the chips.
3. Sprinkle with cheese, bake, then top with fresh pico de gallo and jalapeños.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve with refried beans or salsa verde for an authentic touch!

Keto & Low-Carb Breakfast Nachos

If you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, you can still enjoy breakfast nachos by swapping out traditional tortilla chips.

Key Ingredients:

• Pork rinds or cheese crisps as the base
• Scrambled eggs
• Cooked bacon or sausage
• Shredded cheddar cheese, melted
• Avocado and sour cream for topping

How to Make It:

1. Arrange pork rinds or cheese crisps on a baking sheet.
2. Add scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon, then bake until melted.
3. Top with avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream.

💡 Pro Tip: Try using zucchini chips or baked cheese slices for a crunchy, low-carb base!

Best Sides and Drinks to Pair with Breakfast Nachos

A plate of breakfast nachos is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes and drinks can take your meal to the next level!

Fresh Fruit and Smoothies for a Balanced Meal

If you want to add some natural sweetness and nutrition, consider serving breakfast nachos with fresh fruit or a smoothie.

• Fruit Salad – A mix of berries, mango, and citrus pairs well with nachos.
• Banana or Mango Smoothie – A creamy smoothie helps balance out the spice.
• Avocado & Spinach Green Smoothie – A great choice for a healthy boost.

💡 Pro Tip: Add chia seeds or flaxseeds to your smoothie for extra fiber and protein!

Best Coffee & Tea Pairings for Breakfast Nachos

A strong, rich beverage complements the bold flavors of nachos. Try pairing them with:

• Black coffee or espresso – Cuts through the richness of cheese and eggs.
• Chai tea latte – The warm spices enhance the Tex-Mex flavors.
• Iced matcha latte – A refreshing option that balances out spicy nachos.

💡 Pro Tip: If you like sweet coffee, try adding a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor!

Sweet and Savory Side Dishes

Want to round out your breakfast with extra sides? Here are some great options:

• Hash Browns or Sweet Potato Fries – Perfect for extra crunch.
• Cinnamon Sugar Churros – A sweet contrast to the savory nachos.
• Refried Beans or Mexican Rice – Completes a Tex-Mex breakfast spread.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re serving nachos for brunch, add a side of mimosas or freshly squeezed orange juice!

Looking for More Delicious Breakfast Ideas?

If you love creative morning meals, check out other easy and flavorful breakfast recipes like these innovative Guava Jelly Muffins or this amazing Hawaiian Banana Bread for more inspiration!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Breakfast Nachos

Even though breakfast nachos are simple to make, a few common mistakes can ruin the texture, flavor, or overall experience. Here’s how to avoid them and ensure your nachos turn out crispy, cheesy, and delicious every time.

Preventing Soggy Chips

One of the biggest complaints about breakfast nachos is soggy chips. Nobody wants a plate of limp, mushy nachos!

How to Avoid It:

• Pre-toast the chips – Bake tortilla chips in the oven at 375°F for 5 minutes before adding toppings. This creates a crispy base that holds up better.
• Layer ingredients correctly – Keep wet ingredients (like salsa and eggs) on top, not directly on the chips.
• Serve immediately – Nachos are best enjoyed fresh! Letting them sit for too long allows the cheese and toppings to soak into the chips.

💡 Pro Tip: If using beans, spread them on the cheese layer instead of directly on the chips to keep them crunchy.

Achieving the Right Cheese-to-Topping Ratio

Too much cheese can make breakfast nachos overpowering and greasy, while too little makes them dry and boring.

How to Get the Perfect Balance:

• Use a mix of cheeses – Combining cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso fresco creates flavor depth and a better melt.
• Don’t overdo the cheese – A moderate amount ensures every bite has equal layers of flavor.
• Melt cheese properly – Either bake the nachos for 5–7 minutes or melt the cheese separately and drizzle it over.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid pre-shredded cheese! It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Avoiding Overly Greasy Nachos

While breakfast nachos should be rich and indulgent, too much grease from bacon, sausage, or cheese can make them heavy and unappetizing.

How to Reduce Grease Without Losing Flavor:

• Drain cooked proteins – After cooking bacon or sausage, place them on a paper towel to absorb excess grease.
• Use high-quality cheese – Low-quality cheese releases more oil when melted.
• Balance with fresh toppings – Adding avocado, tomatoes, or cilantro helps cut through the richness.

💡 Pro Tip: If your nachos seem too oily, sprinkle a little lime juice on top—it freshens up the dish instantly!

Health Benefits and Nutritional Breakdown

Yes, breakfast nachos can be both indulgent and nutritious! By choosing the right ingredients and portion sizes, you can turn this dish into a balanced meal that provides protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Are Breakfast Nachos Healthy?

The answer depends on how you prepare and customize them. Here’s a look at both sides:

✅ Healthy Aspects:

• High in protein – Eggs, cheese, and meat keep you full longer.
• Rich in fiber – Whole-grain chips, beans, and veggies add digestive benefits.
• Contains healthy fats – Avocados and olive oil contribute heart-healthy fats.

❌ Potential Downsides:

• High in calories – Large portions with lots of cheese and toppings can be heavy.
• Sodium content – Processed chips and cheese can increase salt intake.
• Greasy ingredients – Too much bacon, sausage, or fried elements can make it less healthy.

💡 Pro Tip: To make breakfast nachos healthier, use baked tortilla chips, lean proteins, and plenty of fresh toppings!

How to Make a Lighter Version

If you want a health-conscious version, here are some simple swaps:

• Use baked tortilla chips instead of fried ones.
• Opt for egg whites instead of whole eggs.
• Choose lean protein like turkey sausage or black beans.
• Reduce cheese and swap sour cream for Greek yogurt.
• Load up on veggies for added nutrients and fiber.

💡 Pro Tip: Want a low-carb version? Use zucchini slices, cauliflower chips, or pork rinds instead of tortilla chips!

Balancing Carbs, Protein, and Fats

A well-balanced plate of breakfast nachos should include:

🥑 Healthy Fats: Avocado, cheese, eggs
🍗 Protein: Bacon, sausage, beans, eggs
🌽 Carbs: Tortilla chips, sweet potatoes
🥗 Fiber & Micronutrients: Salsa, bell peppers, onions, cilantro

By making smart ingredient choices, you can enjoy a delicious plate of breakfast nachos while keeping it nutritious!

FAQs About Breakfast Nachos

If you’re new to breakfast nachos, you might have a few questions before making this crispy, cheesy, and satisfying dish. Here are some of the most common questions and their answers!

1. Can I make breakfast nachos ahead of time?

Yes, but with some adjustments! Since tortilla chips can get soggy, it’s best to prep ingredients separately and assemble just before serving.

How to Meal Prep Breakfast Nachos:

• Cook proteins (bacon, sausage, or chorizo) ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
• Shred cheese and keep it refrigerated until ready to use.
• Prepare fresh toppings like pico de gallo, avocado, and cilantro just before serving.
• Store chips separately and assemble nachos right before baking to maintain crispiness.

💡 Pro Tip: If you need to reheat breakfast nachos, use an oven at 350°F for 5 minutes rather than the microwave to keep them crispy!

2. What are the best store-bought chips for breakfast nachos?

The best chips for breakfast nachos should be sturdy enough to hold eggs, cheese, and toppings without breaking or getting soggy.

Top Choices:

✔️ Thick, restaurant-style tortilla chips – Strong and crispy
✔️ Multigrain tortilla chips – Adds fiber and crunch
✔️ Baked tortilla chips – A lighter option with less oil
✔️ Plantain or sweet potato chips – Great for a gluten-free alternative

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid thin, flimsy chips as they won’t hold up under the toppings. If you’re feeling adventurous, try homemade tortilla chips for ultimate crispiness!

3. How can I make breakfast nachos crispy without frying?

If you love crispy, golden nachos but want to skip deep frying, there are a few tricks to achieve the same crunch.

Ways to Keep Chips Crispy:

• Toast tortilla chips in the oven at 375°F for 5 minutes before adding toppings.
• Layer ingredients properly—keep cheese and eggs on top of the chips, not underneath.
• Use a broiler for finishing—broil nachos for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crisp.
• Avoid excess moisture—drain beans, salsa, and other wet toppings before adding.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want even extra crunch, try using pita chips or baked tostadas instead!

4. What’s the best way to store and reheat breakfast nachos?

Since breakfast nachos are best eaten fresh, storing them requires some adjustments.

Storage Tips:

• Separate ingredients – Store nachos, proteins, and toppings in separate containers.
• Use an airtight container – Keeps chips from getting stale.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days – After that, they lose freshness.

How to Reheat for Best Results:

• Oven Method (Best for Crispy Nachos): Preheat to 350°F, spread nachos on a baking sheet, and bake for 5–7 minutes.
• Skillet Method: Reheat in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes to restore crunch.
• Microwave (Quick but Soft Nachos): Heat in 30-second intervals, but chips may soften.

💡 Pro Tip: If reheating in the oven, add fresh cheese before baking for a melty, just-made taste!

Final Thoughts

Mouthwatering, crispy, and packed with bold flavors, breakfast nachos are a must-try dish for anyone who loves a hearty and satisfying morning meal. Whether you’re making classic bacon and egg nachos, spicy Tex-Mex nachos, or a healthy veggie-packed version, this dish is easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser.

Final Tips for Perfect Breakfast Nachos

Before you start cooking, keep these key tips in mind:

• Use sturdy tortilla chips to prevent sogginess.
• Layer toppings properly to keep chips crispy.
• Melt cheese in the oven for even coverage.
• Balance flavors with fresh toppings like avocado and salsa.