Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe is a delightful twist on traditional nachos, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. These Italian-inspired nachos feature crispy fried wonton chips topped with savory layers of pepperoni, crumbled Italian sausage, and melted cheese. Served with marinara dipping sauce, this dish stands out for its bold flavors and easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chips and Toppings
• For Dipping Sauce
• For Frying
• How to Make Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe
• Step 1: Cook the Sausage
• Step 2: Prepare the Wonton Chips
• Step 3: Layer the Nachos
• Step 4: Bake Until Cheesy Goodness Melts
• How to Serve Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe
• Pair with Beverages
• Dipping Options
• Garnishing Ideas
• Serving Style
• How to Perfect Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe
• Reheating Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of meat?
• What else can I add to my nachos?
• How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
• Can I prepare the wonton chips in advance?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 23 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory sausage, spicy pepperoni, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or snack, these nachos fit any occasion from parties to family dinners.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its unique flavor profile, everyone will want to join in on the fun of sharing this dish.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from readily available items, you won’t have to hunt down specialty products.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Baking sheet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying Pan: Essential for frying the wonton wrappers until they are crispy.
• Baking Sheet: Perfect for layering the nacho ingredients before baking them to perfection.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for slicing wonton wrappers and other ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chips and Toppings

• 1 Package Wonton Wrappers (cut into triangles)
• 1 pound Ground Italian Pork Sausage
• 1 Pepperoni
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
• 1/2 cup Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese
• Pepperoncini or Banana Peppers

For Dipping Sauce

• 1/2 cup Marinara Sauce (for dipping)

For Frying

• Vegetable or Canola Oil (for frying)

How to Make Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. In a frying pan over medium-high heat, cook the ground Italian pork sausage for about 8 minutes until browned. Set aside when cooked through.

Step 2: Prepare the Wonton Chips

1. Cut the wonton wrappers diagonally to create triangles.
2. Heat vegetable oil in another pan over medium-high heat.
3. Once hot, carefully add the wonton triangles in batches.
4. Fry each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 3: Layer the Nachos

1. On a baking sheet, start with a layer of crispy wonton chips.
2. Sprinkle pepper jack cheese evenly across the chips.
3. Distribute the cooked Italian sausage crumbles on top of the cheese.
4. Add slices of pepperoni and diced pepperoncini before finishing with shredded mozzarella.

Step 4: Bake Until Cheesy Goodness Melts

1. Preheat your oven to 375℉.
2. Bake the assembled nachos for about 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted thoroughly.
3. Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Enjoy this delicious Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe at your next gathering!

How to Serve Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

Serving Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos is all about creating a delightful experience. These nachos are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during a cozy night in. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Pair with Beverages

• Craft Beer: A cold craft beer complements the rich flavors of the nachos.
• Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti enhances the Italian essence of this dish.

Dipping Options

• Marinara Sauce: The classic dipping sauce adds a zesty touch to each bite.
• Ranch Dressing: For those who enjoy creamy dips, ranch offers a cool contrast.

Garnishing Ideas

• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil sprinkles add a fresh aroma and flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle for those who like an extra kick.

Serving Style

• Platter Presentation: Arrange nachos on a large platter for sharing.
• Individual Bowls: Serve in small bowls for personal servings, making it easier to enjoy while socializing.

How to Perfect Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

To make your Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos truly unforgettable, consider these simple tips:

• Bold Cooking Method: Fry wonton chips until golden brown for the best texture.
• Layering Technique: Layer ingredients evenly to ensure every chip is packed with flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh pepperoncini and quality cheese for enhanced taste.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven to avoid overcooking the cheese; it should be bubbly but not burnt.

Best Side Dishes for Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

The right side dishes can complement your Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, perfect for mopping up marinara sauce.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a light contrast.
3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, and olives pairs well with nachos.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory bites that add depth to your appetizer spread.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and herbs is refreshing.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice balance to rich nachos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not preheating the oil properly: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying wonton chips. This helps them become crispy instead of soggy.
• Overcrowding the pan: Fry wonton triangles in small batches. Too many at once can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
• Skipping the marinara sauce: Don’t forget to serve with marinara sauce! It adds a delicious flavor that complements the nachos perfectly.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good-quality mozzarella and pepper jack cheese. This enhances the overall flavor and meltiness of your dish.
• Neglecting to layer ingredients evenly: Distribute toppings evenly over the wontons for balanced flavors in every bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover nachos in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

• Freeze cooked nachos by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking regularly to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with ground beef or turkey if you prefer.

What else can I add to my nachos?

You can customize your nachos by adding toppings like olives, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños for extra flavor.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe, omit the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Can I prepare the wonton chips in advance?

Absolutely! You can fry the wonton chips ahead of time and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to assemble your nachos.

Final Thoughts

Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe is a fun and delicious twist on traditional nachos. It’s perfect for parties or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or sauces. Give it a try, and enjoy this delightful appetizer!