We believe there is nothing better than a big plate of ooey-gooey nachos, and that sometimes simple nacho recipes for Super Bowl parties and game day gatherings are the best. Not that there’s anything wrong with a favorite recipe you spend days preparing for guests — but nachos are best kept simple.

Our other belief: While nacho recipes are perfect for game day parties, there is no way they should be relegated to parties alone. Every day can be nachos day!

Top: Slow-Cooked Pork and Beef Nachos at Kitchen Sanctuary and Philly Cheesesteak Nachos at Real Food By Dad

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7 Nacho Recipes For Game Day Parties

While you hardly need a recipe to make basic nachos, some of our favorite food bloggers have inspired us to turn basic nachos into out-of-this-world, fabulous nachos that still keep things simple. From blackened shrimp and BBQ chicken to a twist on beef and cheese, we’ve found 7 nachos recipes that will liven up any party.

But before you get started on the food…I have to urge you to check out this incredibly handy Bamboo Sofa Tray Table I have fallen in love with  Not only does it protect your furniture when everyone has gathered around on the couch to watch TV and eat, it gives us so many uses throughout the year. Okay! Onto the nachos!

Related: Mouthwatering Super Bowl Recipes that can make up a perfect dinner

Blackened Shrimp Nachos

You can avoid that heavy feeling of after-nacho regret with these Blackened Shrimp Nachos at Grandbaby Cakes. They’re a little bit lighter than your classic beans and beef nachos, but still so spicy and good. We’re all big fans of Lodge cast iron skillets, by the way. FANTASTIC price and they last forever if you take care of them. Just be sure to get the silicone handle cover that slides over top. Literal lifesaver.

Slow-Cooker Nachos

Since you eat nachos with your hands, and are probably sharing with other people, using really tender meat is a good thing. That means you’re going to want to whip out your slow cooker. As for the recipe, it doesn’t get easier than these Slow-Cooked Pork and Beef Nachos at Kitchen Sanctuary.

Related: Tasty tailgate recipes that make great weekday dinners as well

Vegetarian Chili Nachos

I’m trying to cut back on the meat in my family’s diet and, while you might think that nachos are not the moment to go meatless, these Vegerarian Sheetpan Nachos at How to Feed a Loon will have you thinking again. Piled high with vegetarian bean chili, these are a great way to fit in some protein and a lot of flavor without meat. Plus, skipping the meat makes them even more affordable for serving a big, hungry group at a party. Bonus!

Classic Beef Nachos

Of course, you can never go wrong with the classic nachos combination of ground beef, beans, and lots and lots of cheese, and these Classic Beef Nachos at Munchkin Time are exactly that. Just 8 ingredients, but tons of flavor and goodness. These are a foolproof crowd pleaser. Serve with your favorite tequila cocktail recipe (for the adults of course).

Barbecue Chicken Nachos

These Barbecue Chicken Nachos at Baked by Rachel are a slightly lighter version of what can be a pretty sinful dish. Plus I love the flavor of barbecue sauce she substitutes instead of the classic salsa. Oh, and these have bacon. Everybody’s happy.

Philly Cheesesteak Nachos

I love this creative recipe for Philly Cheesesteak Nachos that we found at Real Food By Dad. It’s a hearty version you’ll need to eat with a fork and knife, which means setting out plates and napkins—but then, dinner is served. No need for tons of other dishes, which is a game changer for me. And perfect for you Philly fans!

DIY Nachos Bar

We love food bars for easy, last-minute entertaining and this idea for Game Day Nachos Bar at What’s Gaby Cooking looks insanely delicious and is, ultimately, less work for the cook. Gaby offers up recipes for carnitas, guacamole, and even homemade chips, which I think are all worth it, especially if you plan to cook ahead. But you can also rely on store-bought ingredients like a good ready-made guacamole, a rotisserie chicken, and your favorite salsa. (Green Mountain Gringo is incredible!)  Just don’t skip the homemade cheese sauce. Gaby’s recipe is quick and hey, homemade cheese sauce!

Tags: beef, chicken, easy recipes, entertaining, Mexican food, party ideas, slow-cooker/crockpot, snack recipes, Super Bowl, vegetarian