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Creamy Campfire Skillet Nachos

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A quick and easy recipe for creamy, smoky queso nachos cooked in a cast iron skillet, perfect for casual gatherings and cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Tortilla chips (sturdy, thick-cut)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup drained diced tomatoes with green chiles (e.g., Ro*Tel)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: sliced black olives, diced avocado, sour cream

Instructions

  1. Dice one jalapeño (remove seeds for milder heat) and mince two cloves of fresh garlic. Soften 4 ounces of cream cheese at room temperature.
  2. Place a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet over medium heat (stovetop) or over medium coals if outdoors. Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and let it melt, swirling to coat the pan evenly.
  3. Add the diced jalapeño and garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese along with 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack. Stir constantly to help the cheese melt smoothly without clumping.
  5. Slowly add 1 cup whole milk while stirring gently. Keep stirring until fully combined and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well, then fold in 1/2 cup drained diced tomatoes with green chiles.
  7. Spread a layer of sturdy tortilla chips evenly across the skillet, then pour the creamy queso evenly over the top, making sure each chip gets some cheesy goodness.
  8. Scatter optional toppings such as sliced black olives, diced avocado, or fresh cilantro over the nachos.
  9. Serve immediately while warm and luscious. Keep the skillet over low heat to maintain melty texture if needed.

Notes

If queso gets too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it. Keep heat low to avoid grainy cheese. Use sturdy chips to prevent sogginess. For dairy-free, substitute vegan cream cheese and plant-based milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: campfire nachos, skillet nachos, queso recipe, cast iron queso, easy nachos, creamy queso, backyard snack

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-campfire-skillet-nachos-recipe-easy-cast-iron-queso-guide/