Gooey cheese paired with crunchy chips, what's not to love? From proteins to veggies, adding nacho toppings transforms this simple snack into a hearty entree. While you can layer virtually anything onto nachos, like Asian sauces and kimchi for a fusion dish, reinventing the wheel isn't necessary to turn a profit. We've rounded up the top 10 most popular nacho toppings so you can enhance your menu with time-tested favorites you likely already have stocked.
Shop All Nacho Toppings1. Cheese
While all the other toppings listed are great enhancements, nachos wouldn't be nachos without a thick layer of different types of cheese. Cheese is the foundation that holds all the other ingredients together, creating a gooey, flavorful delight with every bite. Thanks to its easy-to-dispense format and affordability, nacho cheese sauce is a great option for high-volume concession stands. It offers a fresh cheddar cheese flavor with a smooth, velvety consistency, paired with a visually appealing yellow-orange color that adds to the overall presentation of the nachos.
Create gourmet nachos for your happy hour special using Mexican cheeses like queso Oaxaca, queso Chihuahua, and queso crema to add a rich and authentic flavor profile. While nachos are technically a Tex-Mex dish, adding authentic Mexican cheeses can appeal to customers who appreciate traditional Hispanic cuisine. If you want to lean into the Tex instead of the Mex, cheddar cheese is a beloved choice for nachos. Younger cheddar melts more easily, but sharp cheddars provide a nice bite, so consider using a blend of both. Monterey or Colby Jack cheeses add a gooey, melty quality and create an epic cheese pull.
- Nacho Cheese Tasting Notes: The best nacho cheeses are creamy, tangy, and savory with hints of spice and acidity
- Nacho Cheese Texture: Ranges from creamy and saucy to chewy and stringy
- Most Popular Types of Cheese for Nachos: Nacho cheese sauce, queso Oaxaca, queso Chihuahua, queso crema, cheddar, Monterey jack, Colby jack
2. Meat
Meat adds taste, texture, and substance to your nachos. Seasoned ground beef is a hearty and flavorful topping that pairs well with melted cheese and crunchy tortilla chips, making it a popular choice for nachos. For a lean and versatile protein choice, chicken can be grilled, shredded, or seasoned and added to nachos. The rich flavor and tender texture of steak add a gourmet touch to nachos, perfect for a game day special.
For a touch of sweetness and smokiness, choose Memphis-style pulled pork. The tender, slow-cooked meat pairs perfectly with melted cheese and tangy salsa for a mouthwatering combination. Vegan meat alternatives like seitan, tempeh, and ground beef substitutes offer a tasty and protein-rich alternative to traditional meat toppings. These options can be seasoned and cooked to mimic the texture and flavor of meat, providing a satisfying nacho experience for vegan diners.
- Nacho Meat Tasting Notes: Varies on the protein chosen and preparation method
- Nacho Meat Texture: Whichever meat you choose, prepare it so it is on the softer side to contrast the crunchy chips
- Most Popular Types of Meat for Nachos: Seasoned ground beef, chicken, pulled pork, steak, vegan meat substitutes
3. Beans
Beans are a versatile topping that can add depth and flavor to nachos. Among the various types of beans used for nachos, black beans stand out as the most popular choice. Their rich, earthy flavor and firm texture make them a perfect complement to the crunchy tortilla chips and gooey, melted cheese. For those looking to indulge, refried beans are a decadent choice for topping nachos. These beans are cooked until soft, sauteed in lard or oil, and then mashed to create a creamy and smooth consistency.
Pinto beans are another popular option for nacho toppings because their creamy texture and slightly nutty flavor enhance the overall taste of the dish. Pinto beans are often seasoned with spices such as cumin and chili powder to add a kick of flavor to the nachos. While less common, red beans add a satisfying chewiness and a slightly sweet flavor that complements the other toppings on nachos perfectly.
- Nacho Beans Tasting Notes: Rich, earthy, nutty, savory
- Nacho Beans Texture: Creamy, al dente
- Most Popular Types of Beans for Nachos: Black beans, pinto beans, refried beans, red beans
4. Salsa
Salsa is a dynamic and popular condiment that can elevate the flavor profile of nachos. When choosing the best salsa for nachos, consider the texture, flavor, and heat level that will complement the other toppings. Pico de gallo, also known as fresh salsa, is the most versatile option for nachos. Made with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, cilantro, and lime juice, pico de gallo adds a burst of freshness and acidity that can balance the melted cheese's richness without overpowering the other toppings.
Similar to pico de gallo, salsa roja is made with ripe tomatoes, onions, jalapenos, and cilantro. What sets salsa roja apart from pico de gallo is it preserves the ripe tomato juice, making it more of a condiment than a topping, whereas pico de gallo contains very little liquid. Salsa tatemada, made by charring tomatoes, onions, and chilies on a hot skillet or grill, imparts a rich, roasted taste to nachos and complements the crispy texture of the chips. Salsa verde, or green salsa, offers a tangy and slightly spicy flavor profile that pairs well with nachos. Made with tomatillos, green chilies, onions, and cilantro, salsa verde has a bright green color and a refreshing taste that can add a zesty kick to your nacho toppings.
- Nacho Salsa Tasting Notes: Ranges from fresh and acidic to spicy and charred, depending on the variety
- Nacho Salsa Texture: Ranges from toothsome to smooth depending on the variety and preparation method
- Most Popular Types of Salsa for Nachos: Pico de gallo, salsa roja, salsa tatemada, salsa verde
5. Chili Sauce
Chili sauce is a quick and easy option for enhancing the flavor profile of your nachos. Because it is so hearty and serves as a sauce and a textured topping, you won't need to layer in a bunch of other add-ons. Simply heat the chili sauce and drizzle it over your nachos for a delicious and satisfying meal or snack. The rich and savory flavor of chili sauce pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of nacho chips, creating a mouthwatering combination. Many choose to mix nacho cheese sauce with their chili for extra indulgence. Concession stands can maximize their purchase and use the chili sauce as a topping for nachos and as a hot dog topping for chili dogs.
Whether you choose chili with beans for added texture and heartiness or a bean-free chili for a smoother consistency, this topping provides a savory kick to your nacho dish. When choosing chili sauce as a nacho topping, consider offering chili with and without beans to cater to different preferences. This allows customers to customize their nachos according to their taste preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
- Nacho Chili Sauce Tasting Notes: Spicy, smoky, tangy
- Nacho Chili Sauce Texture: Ranges from thick and chunky to smooth and pourable
- Most Popular Types of Chili for Nachos: Chili with beans, chili without beans
6. Peppers
Peppers are a popular choice for nachos, adding bursts of flavor and heat to this classic dish. There are a variety of pepper options to suit different taste preferences. Pickled jalapenos are a staple topping for nachos, providing a tangy and spicy kick that complements the other ingredients. These peppers are typically sliced or diced and can be added directly to the nachos or served on the side for customizable heat levels. Fresh jalapenos offer a crisp and vibrant flavor to nachos. These peppers can be sliced, diced, or roasted before being added to the nachos, but make sure you protect staff against jalapeno hands.
Sauteed sweet peppers are a delicious alternative for those who prefer a milder option. These peppers add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to nachos, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that pairs well with other toppings. Serrano peppers, known for their bright and spicy flavor, can be sliced thinly and scattered over the nachos for a burst of heat, catering to spice lovers. Banana peppers offer a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory elements of nachos. These peppers can be sliced or diced and added to nachos for a zesty twist that adds depth to the dish.
- Nacho Pepper Tasting Notes: Ranging from sweet and tangy to bright and fiery
- Nacho Pepper Texture: Ranging from crisp and crunchy to tender and soft depending on their preparation
- Most Popular Types of Peppers for Nachos: Pickled jalapenos, fresh jalapenos, sauteed sweet peppers, serrano peppers, banana peppers
7. Avocado/Guacamole
Avocado is a beloved fruit that adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to nachos. Fresh avocado slices are a popular choice for topping nachos, providing a fresh and healthy option for customers looking to enjoy a lighter snack. Avocado is packed with nutrients, appealing to vegan customers looking to increase the satiety of nachos without relying on meat products. When incorporating avocado into your nacho toppings, consider offering it as a side or a customizable add-on to upsell your menu.
Guacamole, a classic Mexican dip made from mashed avocados, is another popular choice for nacho toppings. Guacamole adds zesty flavor and a smooth consistency to nachos, making it a favorite among customers. It can be customized with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice to create a unique and tasty topping for nachos. For busy commercial kitchens, buying prepared guacamole allows you to quickly and easily add this popular topping to your nacho dishes without extensive preparation.
- Nacho Avocado/Guacamole Tasting Notes: Avocado slices are buttery, mild, and creamy; guacamole is zesty
- Nacho Avocado/Guacamole Texture: Smooth, buttery
- Most Popular Types of Avocado/Guacamole for Nachos: Fresh avocado slices or cubes, premade guacamole, house-made guacamole
8. Olives
Olives add a textural twist and briny flavor to nachos. Among the various types of olives available, black olives are the most popular choice for nacho toppings. Their rich flavor, soft texture, and juiciness contrast and complement the other ingredients well. While black olives may be the most popular, other varieties offer a unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize your nachos to suit your customers' preferences.
For a creative twist on traditional nachos, consider pairing kalamata olives with feta cheese to create a Greek-inspired nacho dish. The bold and tangy flavor of kalamata olives pairs beautifully with creamy, salty feta cheese, adding a Mediterranean flair to your nachos. To add a Spanish touch to your nachos, pair sliced green Spanish olives with Manchego cheese. The briny and slightly bitter flavor of green Spanish olives complements the nutty and buttery taste of Manchego cheese, creating a delicious combination reminiscent of a traditional Spanish tapas.
- Nacho Olives Tasting Notes: Ranges from tangy and slightly bitter to earthy and mild depending on the variety; all are briny
- Nacho Olives Texture: Juicy, firm, toothsome
- Most Popular Types of Nacho Olives: Black, green, Kalamata
9. Onions
Onion varieties add depth and flavor to your nachos. Grilled onions bring a delicious smokiness and sweetness to your nachos. Cooking onions on the grill caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a rich and savory flavor that can complement your nacho dish's cheesy and spicy elements. Compared to other types of onion, white onions have a mild flavor when raw, so they can provide a satisfying crunch without overpowering the other ingredients.
Pickled onions are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and spices, which helps to mellow their sharpness and infuse them with a unique flavor profile that pairs well with the other ingredients in your nachos. For a fresh and mild onion flavor, slice green onions and sprinkle them over nachos. Also known as scallions, green onions have a milder taste than their fully mature counterparts, making them a great option for those who prefer a more subtle onion flavor on their nachos.
- Nacho Onions Tasting Notes: Ranges from zesty and sweet to grassy and pungent, depending on the variety
- Nacho Onions Texture: Ranges from crunchy to tender depending on the variety and preparation method
- Most Popular Types of Onions for Nachos: Pickled onions, white onions, green onions, grilled onions
10. Sour Cream
Sour cream adds a rich element to balance out the spiciness of other toppings such as jalapenos or hot sauce. Its velvety consistency also helps bind the different layers of nachos together, creating a cohesive and delicious dish. Made from fermented cream, sour cream is a staple in many commercial kitchens due to its rich texture and ability to complement a variety of flavors, so operators likely already have it on hand.
For a more authentic option with a milder flavor and thinner consistency, consider using Mexican crema instead of traditional sour cream. This alternative is less sour and offers a smoother texture that complements nachos well. Additionally, offering vegan sour cream as a topping option can accommodate patrons with dietary preferences or restrictions, ensuring that all customers can enjoy your nachos.
- Nacho Sour Cream Tasting Notes: Creamy, tangy, slightly acidic, sour
- Nacho Sour Cream Texture: Thick cream, smooth, silky
- Most Popular Types of Sour Cream for Nachos: Cultured sour cream, Mexican crema, vegan sour cream
Nacho Toppings Brands
Now that you know the most commonly used nacho toppings, you must consider ingredient sourcing. Whether you are looking to introduce nachos to your menu or are seeking better quality than previous brands you have used, we compiled a list of the top nacho-topping brands that operators should be aware of. Each brand has received high ratings for its products.
Carnival King
When it comes to serving up delicious nachos at your concession stand, Carnival King is a brand that delivers quality products at an affordable price. Known for their flavorful cheese sauces, Carnival King is a go-to choice for businesses looking to offer a crowd-pleasing snack option. With a rich and creamy texture, these sauces are perfect for drizzling over crispy tortilla chips and topping with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer classic cheddar or spicy jalapeno, Carnival King offers a variety of cheese sauce options to suit every taste.
- Nacho Toppings They Offer: Cheddar cheese sauce, Jalapeno cheese sauce
- Average Price Point: 29 cents per ounce
See what our customers are saying about Carnival King nacho toppings here!
Regal Foods
When it comes to enhancing the flavor of your nachos, Regal Foods offers a range of delicious toppings that can elevate your nacho experience. Known widely for their tasty and affordable flavor additives for virtually any dish, Regal Foods offers products that take your food to the next level. Their jalapeno slices add a spicy kick that perfectly complements the cheesy goodness of your nachos. Additionally, their black olives provide a savory and rich flavor that enhances the overall taste of your dish.
- Nacho Toppings They Offer: Jalapeno slices, black olives
- Average Price Point: 6 cents per ounce
See what our customers are saying about Regal Foods nacho toppings here!
Advanced Food Products
Established in 1951, Advanced Food Products is a wholesale food manufacturer renowned for its wide range of products designed to elevate your culinary creations. Based in the USA, Advanced Food Products is committed to producing high-quality toppings that meet the standards of even the most discerning food enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a creamy cheese sauce to drizzle over your nachos or a zesty chili sauce to add a kick to your dish, Advanced Food Products has you covered.
- Nacho Toppings They Offer: Chili sauce, cheddar cheese sauce, jalapeno cheese sauce, queso blanco white cheese sauce, Monterey Jack cheese sauce, aged cheddar cheese sauce, mild cheddar cheese sauce
- Average Price Point: 14 cents per ounce
See what our customers are saying about Advanced Food Products nacho toppings here!
Furmano's
Founded in 1921 deep in the Pennsylvania heartland, Furmano's has a rich history of providing delicious vegetables and condiments to the United States. With a family-owned legacy, Furmano's has established itself as a trusted brand in the food industry. One of their popular offerings includes black beans, which can serve as a flavorful and nutritious nacho topping.
- Nacho Toppings They Offer: Black beans
- Average Price Point: 6 cents per ounce
See what our customers are saying about Furmano's nacho toppings here!
Disclaimer: The average price point is determined at the time of publication. Check product pages for current prices.
Back to TopWhether you're adding sheet pan nachos to your appetizer lineup or making walking tacos for your food truck menu, use our list of the most popular nacho toppings to provide the staples customers love. Experimenting with different toppings can elevate your nacho experience and cater to a variety of tastes, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any commercial food establishment. The sky is the limit for what you add to nachos, but these classic choices never go out of style.
