Nacho Burger with Cheese Sauce

Name: Nacho Burger with Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 hamburger buns; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup milk; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon flour; 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional); 1 cup crushed tortilla chips; 1 jalapeño, sliced; ¼ cup diced tomatoes; ¼ cup diced onions; Fresh cilantro (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals

I absolutely love making these Nacho Burgers with Cheese Sauce for a fun twist on a classic burger night. The first time I put these together, I was amazed at how the cheesy sauce combined with the crunchy nacho toppings created an explosion of flavor. Every bite is a delightful surprise, and it's such an easy way to elevate your normal homemade burgers into something special. My friends and family rave about this recipe every time I serve it, and I'm sure you will too!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-22T14:14:29.277Z

During my culinary adventures, I wanted to create something that combined two of my favorite snacks: nachos and burgers. After several attempts, I perfected this Nacho Burger with Cheese Sauce, featuring a juicy beef patty topped with homemade cheese sauce and crunchy nacho toppings. The key is to let the cheese sauce just melt over the burger while it’s still hot, ensuring it adheres perfectly to the patty.

I also experimented with varying levels of spice, ultimately incorporating jalapeños for that perfect kick without overpowering the dish. The combination of textures—from the creamy cheese sauce to the crunchy tortilla chips—makes each bite a delightful experience. Serve it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A fun and unique twist on the classic burger.
Creamy, cheesy sauce that enhances every bite.
Crunchy nacho toppings add great texture and flavor.

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is a defining element of the Nacho Burger, and its creaminess paired with the sharpness of cheddar elevates the overall flavor. When melting the cheese into the thickened milk mixture, I recommend using a low heat to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Stir continuously until the sauce is glossy and well-combined. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding hot sauce during the melting process allows the flavors to infuse well, giving your cheese sauce a delightful zing.

For a unique twist, consider experimenting with different types of cheese. For instance, blending Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack with cheddar can introduce a tangy depth of flavor. If you're aiming for a vegan option, use a plant-based cheese that melts well, such as cashew cheese or store-bought vegan cheese. Just ensure to adjust the milk to a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk to keep the recipe cohesive.

Building Layers of Flavor

While assembling your Nacho Burger, do not skip out on the toppings! The layers contribute to the multi-dimensional flavor profile of each bite. Start with a sufficient amount of cheese sauce as a base on the patty. When adding crushed tortilla chips, press them down slightly into the sauce to help them adhere and ensure they add crunch without falling off when you take a bite. Fresh vegetables like diced tomatoes and onions not only enhance flavor but also add a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the beef and cheese.

Additionally, the choice of jalapeños can vary based on your heat preference. While fresh jalapeños bring a crisp texture and spiciness, pickled jalapeños offer a tangy flavor that can beautifully complement the savory elements of the burger. Don't hesitate to customize the burger with other toppings like guacamole or sour cream for even more flavor layers.

Ingredients

For the Burger:

1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns

For the Cheese Sauce:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon flour
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

For the Toppings:

1 cup crushed tortilla chips
1 jalapeño, sliced
¼ cup diced tomatoes
¼ cup diced onions
Fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat, add the cheddar cheese, and stir until melted. Feel free to add hot sauce for a kick!

Cook the Burgers

While the cheese sauce is thickening, season the beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into patties and cook on a grill or in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness is reached.

Assemble the Burgers

Toast the hamburger buns lightly. Place each burger patty on the bottom half of the bun. Pour a generous amount of cheese sauce over each patty, then sprinkle on the crushed tortilla chips, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and onions. Top with the other half of the bun and serve.

Pro Tips

For an even more flavorful burger, consider adding your favorite seasonings to the ground beef mix or using a blend of cheeses in the sauce.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're hosting a gathering, consider preparing the cheese sauce and burger patties in advance. The cheese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, to bring it back to that gooey consistency. For the patties, you can form them ahead of time and keep them separated with parchment paper in the freezer for up to a month; just thaw before cooking.

To save even more time, pre-chop your toppings the day before. Store diced tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños in separate containers to keep them fresh. This way, when it's burger night, assembly will be a quick and delightful process rather than a rushed chore.

Serving Suggestions

These Nacho Burgers pair wonderfully with a side of homemade fries or a simple green salad. Consider serving with a creamy cilantro dressing to tie in with the fresh cilantro topping. You could also make nacho-style fries by topping a bed of fries with the cheese sauce and similar toppings—such as chopped jalapeños and diced tomatoes—creating a fantastic side dish that complements your burgers splendidly.

For an added touch of fun, serve your burgers with a selection of dipping sauces. A smoky barbecue sauce, sour cream, or even a spicy salsa can provide additional flavor contrasts and create an entertaining dining experience. The combination of textures and flavors in this meal is sure to impress your guests!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before pouring over the burgers.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey or even a veggie burger if you’re looking for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the assembled burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I add more toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your nacho burger with additional toppings like avocado, sour cream, or guacamole.