Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: If using ground beef, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water with the cooked ground beef. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the beef is well-seasoned. If using shredded chicken, toss it with taco seasoning. For vegetarian, skip this step or heat black beans with a pinch of taco seasoning.
Step 4: Arrange a single layer of tortilla chips evenly across the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle about half of the shredded cheese blend over the chips.
Step 5: Distribute half of your seasoned ground beef (or other protein/beans), half of the black beans, and half of the corn evenly over the cheesy chips.
Step 6: Add another layer of tortilla chips, followed by the remaining cheese blend, ground beef, black beans, and corn. Add sliced pickled jalapeños and black olives now, if using.
Step 7: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted, bubbly, and the chips are slightly golden at the edges. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 8: Carefully remove the nachos from the oven. Top immediately with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of salsa, and a side of guacamole. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing. Enjoy your ultimate Nachos recipe!