SnacksEasyGluten-Free

Bean-Free Nachos

Crispy tortilla chips piled with savory seasoned beef, melted cheese, and cool toppings. This bean-free version keeps nachos on the menu for low-FODMAP eaters craving Tex-Mex without the gut consequences.

Bean-Free Nachos
Total Time
30m
Servings
4
Calories
485
Fiber
3g
Protein
24g
Carbs
36g
Fat
28g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
RecoveringRemissionPost-Op (Late)

Watch Out For

Mexican cheese blendmoderate

Dairy fat and trace lactose may cause issues for some

Tip: Use dairy-free cheese or omit; the seasoned beef carries the dish

cherry tomatoesmild

Raw tomatoes contain seeds and acidity that may irritate during flares

Tip: Reduce quantity or omit entirely

pickled jalapenosmoderate

Capsaicin irritates the GI tract, especially during flares or with hemorrhoids

Tip: Skip entirely or rinse under cold water to reduce heat

high-fat toppingsmoderate

Combined fat from beef, cheese, sour cream, and avocado totals 28g per serving

Tip: Use lean beef (93/7), reduce sour cream and avocado portions

avocadomild

At 1/4 avocado per serving, approaches FODMAP amber threshold

Tip: Reduce to 2 tablespoons per person during elimination phase

Ingredients

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    400°F (200°C)Equipment: oven
  2. Heat garlic-infused oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.

    Equipment: large skillet
  3. Add ground beef to the hot oil, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is deeply browned with crispy edges and no pink remains.

    Equipment: wooden spoon
  4. Sprinkle cumin, chili powder, and salt over the browned beef. Stir to coat evenly, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Spread tortilla chips in a single, slightly overlapping layer on an oven-safe platter or large sheet pan.

    Equipment: oven-safe platter, sheet pan
  6. Spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the chips, targeting the center of each chip cluster so every bite gets meat.

    Tip: Target the center of each chip cluster so every bite gets meat
  7. Scatter shredded cheese generously over the top, making sure to cover the beef and chips.

  8. Bake for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling at the edges.

    400°F (200°C)
  9. Remove from the oven and immediately top with quartered tomatoes, pickled jalapenos (if using), diced avocado, dollops of sour cream, and fresh cilantro.

    Tip: Add toppings immediately while cheese is hot so they warm slightly
  10. Serve immediately while the chips are still crispy and the cheese is hot.

Notes

Storage

Nachos are best fresh. Store components separately if making ahead: refrigerate cooked beef for up to 3 days, and assemble just before serving. Reheat beef in a skillet over medium heat before topping chips.

Turkey swap

Ground turkey works well for a leaner option. It's equally well-tolerated and cooks in the same time. Season more generously as turkey has a milder flavor.

Dairy-free option

Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative (check labels for low-FODMAP status). The seasoned beef is flavorful enough to carry the dish without cheese.

SCD alternative

Corn chips are illegal on SCD because corn is a grain. Substitute with veggie chips made from zucchini or plantains if following SCD strictly.

Crispier chips

For extra crunch, toast the plain chips in the oven at 350°F for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings.

Jalapeno heat level

Pickled jalapenos are milder than fresh due to the vinegar brine. If you're spice-sensitive, rinse them under cold water before using, or skip entirely.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches