Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite, then you’re in for a treat with this Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe! Imagine crispy wonton chips piled high with savory goodness—turkey pepperoni, zesty Italian sausage, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s game day with friends or a cozy family movie night.

What makes this recipe special is its comforting flavors and ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful appetizer that’s sure to impress everyone around the table. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Italian nachos at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 23 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: With its cheesy goodness and flavorful toppings, it’s an instant hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to cater to your family’s taste preferences.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties or as a snack during movie nights—everyone will want to dig in!
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of crispy chips and melty cheese is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these goodies, and you’re on your way to creating something special!

For the Chips

• 1 Package Wonton Wrappers (cut into triangles)

For the Toppings

• 1 pound Ground Italian Beef Sausage
• 1 Package Turkey Pepperoni
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
• 1/2 cup Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese
• Pepperoncini or Banana Peppers

For Dipping

• 1/2 cup Marinara Sauce

For Frying

• Vegetable or Canola Oil

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Use your favorite cheese blends—cheddar or provolone would work wonderfully!
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you’re craving some heat.

How to Make Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by cooking the ground Italian sausage over medium-high heat for about 8 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked. This step is crucial as it adds that rich, savory flavor that makes these nachos so satisfying. Once cooked, set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Wonton Chips

While the sausage cools, cut your wonton wrappers diagonally into triangles. In another pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the wonton triangles in batches. Fry them for about 2 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. This will create a wonderful base for our nachos! After frying, let them drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Step 3: Assemble Your Nachos

On a baking sheet, lay out a generous layer of those crispy wonton chips. Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle over some pepper jack cheese followed by the cooked Italian sausage crumbles and turkey pepperoni. Don’t forget those zesty pepperoncini! Top everything off with mozzarella cheese—a glorious mountain of cheesy goodness!

Step 4: Bake Until Melty

Preheat your oven to 375℉ (190℃) and bake your assembled nachos for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is perfectly melted. This step melds all those fantastic flavors together while giving you that warm, gooey texture we all crave.

Step 5: Serve with Marinara Sauce

Once they’re out of the oven, serve your delicious nachos hot alongside marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite with family and friends—it’s going to be hard not to go back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

Creating the perfect Italian nachos is all about attention to detail and a sprinkle of creativity! Here are some tips to help you achieve that delicious crunch and flavor.

• Use Fresh Wonton Wrappers: Fresh wonton wrappers will yield the crispiest chips. Look for them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, as they tend to fry better than frozen ones.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping your oil at the right temperature is crucial for crispy chips. If the oil is too cool, the wontons may absorb excess oil and become soggy instead of crispy.
• Layer Strategically: Start with a base layer of cheese before adding toppings. This creates a melty barrier that holds everything together, preventing sogginess and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Try adding black olives or fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor. The more variety, the more fun your nachos will be!
• Serve Immediately: These nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve them hot to maintain their crispiness, and keep your marinara sauce warm for dipping.

How to Serve Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

When it comes to serving these delightful Italian nachos, presentation is key! Here’s how to make your dish as appealing as it is delicious.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of Parmesan on top before serving can add a savory depth that enhances each bite.

Side Dishes

• Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the cheesy richness of the nachos.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with herbs and breadcrumbs make an excellent accompaniment, adding variety to your appetizer spread.
• Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides a healthy balance and adds vibrant colors to your table.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to impress friends and family with your version of Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos! Enjoy every scrumptious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make the components ahead of time and assemble them whenever you’re ready for a delicious treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the nachos to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover nachos in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the components separately (wontons, sausage, cheese).
• Store each component in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Use within 1-2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread leftover nachos on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have any questions about this recipe? Here are a few common ones!

Can I use other types of cheese in the Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like cheddar or provolone. Just remember to keep the melting properties in mind!

How do I make the wonton chips crispy in the Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Frying in small batches helps maintain the temperature and results in even crispiness!

Can I substitute ground turkey for sausage in this recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative, adding a lighter taste while still providing that hearty texture. Just be sure to season it well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe as much as I do! It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy night in, these nachos are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!