Dirt Dogs Dugout Nacho Cups
These Dirt Dogs Dugout Nacho Cups are the perfect game day snack. Crispy chips, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and all the classic toppings—packed into a mini baseball helmet for easy, fun serving.
Ingredients
For the Nacho Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 tbsp Meat Church Holy Cow seasoning
- 1 tbsp Meat Church Holy Voodoo seasoning (or preferred taco blend)
- 1 tbsp Bear & Burton’s W Sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ cup water
- Optional: ¼ cup diced onions or peppers
For Assembly:
- 24 mini baseball helmets (or mini cups)
- 3–4 cups tortilla chips, lightly crushed
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- Shredded lettuce
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Pickled jalapeños
- Green onions
- Guacamole
- Hot sauce (Chef's choice)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground meat with seasoning, W Sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and salt & pepper. Add water and simmer until thickened. Optionally, add onions or peppers for extra flavor.
- Prep the Helmets: Arrange mini baseball helmets (or cups) on a tray for easy assembly.
- Layer the Nachos: Start with crushed tortilla chips, then hot meat, and shredded cheese. Repeat if your cup is tall enough.
- Melt the Cheese: If oven-safe, bake at 350°F for 3–5 minutes. If not, just spoon hot meat over cheese to melt it.
- Top It Off: Add shredded lettuce, sour cream, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, green onions, and a scoop of guacamole. Finish with a drizzle of hot sauce.
Chef Paddy’s Tips
- Use Sturdy Chips or Cups: Thick tortilla scoops or baked mini cups hold up best on game day.
- Layer Thoughtfully, Not Heavily: Start with a layer of beans or queso to lock things in, then build evenly with meat, cheese, and toppings.
- Assemble Fresh: Prep ahead, but assemble just before serving so the chips stay crisp and satisfying.
- Finishing Flair: Add a sour cream drizzle, chopped scallions, or a single jalapeño slice on top for a polished game day presentation.
- Perfect for a Crowd: These cups are grab-and-go friendly with no cleanup drama. Tailgates, watch parties, or kids’ games—this one wins every time.
Let’s cook with heart and hustle.
