Italian Nachos Restaurant-Style

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Tortilla chips: 300 grams
2. Ground beef: 250 grams
3. Diced tomatoes: 1 cup
4. Shredded mozzarella cheese: 150 grams
5. Sliced black olives: 1/2 cup
6. Minced garlic: 2 teaspoons
7. Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
8. Salt and pepper: To taste
9. Pre-cooked bacon bits or chopped cooked sausage (optional): 50 grams

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total: 50 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until no longer red and drain excess fat.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Spread the tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
5. Top the chips with the beef mixture, shredded mozzarella cheese, black olives, and pre-cooked bacon bits (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and starts to bubble.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 600 per serving (based on estimated values)
• Fat: 35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Protein: 25 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• A fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors, creating a unique dish that is both hearty and flavorful.
• The combination of beef, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning offers a rich and savory taste.
• The dish is topped with cheese and black olives, adding a creamy and salty contrast that is appealing to most American palates.

User Comments:

1. "These nachos were amazing! The combination of flavors was spot on and the dish was filling and satisfying."
2. "I loved the addition of the bacon bits, it gave the dish a unique flavor profile that I really enjoyed."
3. "The dish was a bit salty for my taste, I would recommend reducing the salt next time."
4. "The cheese was very creamy and melted perfectly, making this dish a real treat."
5. "This is a great dish for a party or gathering, everyone seemed to enjoy it."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure the ground beef is cooked through before adding it to the dish to prevent foodborne illnesses.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
• If you want to add more protein, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp to the dish.