Microwave Nachos for One Recipe

J. Kenji López-Alt
Microwave Nachos for One Recipe
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  • Yield:Serves 1
  • Active time:1 minute
  • Total time:2 1/2 minutes
  • Rated: 4.5

Gooey microwaved nachos go from zero to delicious in a couple of minutes. [Photograph: J. Kenji López-Alt]

The microwave is a highly underrated tool for nacho construction. Contrary to popular opinion, the microwave will not make chips soggy and is excellent at melting cheese efficiently.

Why It Works

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  • Microwaving the chips on their own before adding the toppings toasts them, developing and improving their corn flavor.
  • Because of its high water content, cheese melts very easily in the microwave.

Ingredients

  • 12 hearty corn chips
  • 1/4 cup refried beans (optional) (about 2.5 ounces; 70g)
  • 2 to 4 ounces (55 to 110g) grated Longhorn, Colby, jack, cheddar, or Oaxaca cheese
  • 12 pickled jalapeño slices

Directions

  1. 1.

    Place chips on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer. Microwave on high power until they smell nice and toasty, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Remove from microwave and top each chip with 1 teaspoon of beans, a little shredded cheese, and a jalapeño slice. Return to microwave and cook for 30 seconds. Continue to cook in 15-second intervals until all the cheese is melted and bubbly. Eat and repeat as necessary.

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