Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Gather all your ingredients and prepare your baking dish.
Spread a layer of sturdy tortilla chips evenly across the bottom of your 9x13 inch baking dish, creating a solid base for the toppings.
Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the chips, covering them completely for gooey, cheesy goodness.
Distribute the seasoned cooked ground beef evenly over the cheese, pressing down lightly so it embeds into the cheese.
Scatter sliced jalapeños and any other optional toppings like beans or tomatoes across the dish, spreading them out evenly.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh, herbal finish.
Serve hot, topped with dollops of sour cream and a squeeze of lime if desired, for a creamy, tangy contrast.