There are days when regular nachos just do not cut it, and that is exactly when I turn to Irish Nachos. They are hearty, a little rustic, and honestly far more satisfying than anything made with tortilla chips. Crispy potato slices carry all those toppings, and every bite feels substantial.
I started making these when I wanted something snacky but still comforting. Potatoes bake up golden and crunchy, then get loaded with melty cheese, bacon, and fresh toppings. It is the kind of food people hover around while the tray is still hot.
They are especially fun around St. Patrick’s Day, but I make them year round because no one ever complains. Once you set them on the table, they disappear fast. Very fast. I usually wish I had made a double batch.
What makes them different is the balance of textures. The edges of the potatoes crisp up, the centers stay tender, and the toppings add just enough freshness to keep everything from feeling heavy.
Why These Are So Good
Regular nachos rely on chips that can get soggy quickly, but sliced potatoes hold their structure. They soak up flavor without falling apart, which means every layer stays distinct. That alone makes them worth making.
The seasoning goes directly onto the potatoes before baking, so you are building flavor from the very start. By the time the cheese melts over the top, the base already tastes incredible on its own.
And then come the toppings. Smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, a little heat from jalapenos, and cool sour cream create that perfect contrast that keeps you reaching for one more.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
- Russet potatoes – These are the base of the dish, sliced into rounds that bake up crispy on the outside and tender inside.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Helps the potatoes roast evenly and develop that golden texture.
- Kosher salt – Brings out the natural flavor of the potatoes and seasons every bite.
- Paprika – Adds a gentle warmth and subtle smoky note.
- Garlic powder – Gives the potatoes a savory backbone without overpowering them.
- Black pepper – A little sharpness to balance the richness of the toppings.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds bold flavor that stands up to the potatoes.
- Thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled – Brings smoky crunch and a salty finish.
- Jalapeno pepper – Adds fresh heat that cuts through the richness.
- Roma tomatoes – Provide brightness and a juicy contrast to the baked ingredients.
- Sour cream – A cool, creamy element that ties everything together.
- Shallot – Gives a mild onion flavor that is slightly sweet and not overpowering.
- Green onions – Add freshness and a pop of color right at the end.
How to make Irish Nachos?
Step 1 – Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating the oven to 450°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. A hot oven is key because it helps the potatoes crisp instead of steam.
If you have room, use two baking sheets so the slices are not crowded. Giving them space makes a big difference in texture.
Step 2 – Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. This simple blend is all you need to give the potatoes a flavorful coating.
Stir it well so the spices distribute evenly. You do not want one slice getting all the paprika while another gets none.
Step 3 – Slice and Coat the Potatoes
Slice the potatoes into rounds about 1/8 inch thick. Slightly thicker than chips is ideal because they need to hold toppings later.
Toss the slices in a large bowl with olive oil and the seasoning mixture. Make sure every piece gets coated so they roast evenly.
Step 4 – Arrange for Roasting
Lay the potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Overlapping will cause them to soften instead of crisp.
Take a moment to spread them out properly. That small step is what gives you those golden edges.
Step 5 – Bake Until Golden
Bake for about 20 minutes, then flip each slice carefully. The undersides should already be starting to brown.
Return them to the oven for another 7 to 9 minutes until they are crispy and beautifully golden.
Step 6 – Add Cheese and Bacon
Gather all the potatoes onto one baking sheet to create that classic nacho-style layer. Sprinkle generously with cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Slide the tray back into the oven for just a few minutes, long enough for the cheese to melt completely.
Step 7 – Finish with Fresh Toppings
Remove from the oven and immediately add jalapenos, tomatoes, sour cream, shallots, and green onions. The contrast of hot and cool toppings is what makes them special.
Serve right away while everything is warm and melty. These are best enjoyed straight from the pan.
Tips
- Slice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate and crisp consistently.
- Do not overcrowd the pan or the potatoes will steam instead of roast.
- Flip the slices halfway through baking to ensure both sides get golden.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Add toppings right before serving to keep everything vibrant and fresh.
- If you like extra crunch, bake the potatoes a minute or two longer before adding cheese.
- Cook the bacon ahead of time to make assembly quick and easy.
- Serve on a warm tray so the cheese stays soft longer.
Serving Ideas
These are fantastic as an appetizer, but I have absolutely served them as dinner more than once. Pair them with a simple salad and no one feels like they are missing anything.
If you are hosting friends, set out extra toppings so everyone can customize their portion. A little extra sour cream, more jalapenos, or even additional cheese lets people make them their own.
They also work well for casual gatherings because they do not require fancy plating. Just bring the tray to the table and let everyone dig in.
For game days or relaxed weekends, I like to serve them straight from the baking sheet. It keeps things informal and makes cleanup easier, which is always a bonus.
Storing and Reheating
If you somehow end up with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for a few days, though they are always best fresh.
To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and crisp again. This helps bring back that original texture.
An air fryer also works beautifully for reheating small portions. Just a few minutes will revive the potatoes and melt the cheese again.
The microwave works in a pinch, but the potatoes will be softer. If you go that route, add fresh toppings afterward to brighten everything up.
Irish Nachos are one of those recipes that feel both fun and comforting at the same time. They are simple to make, packed with flavor, and always the first thing to disappear from the table.
Every time I make them, I wonder why I do not do it more often. Then I take one bite, and remember exactly why they are worth it.
Irish Nachos Recipe
Description
Irish Nachos are seasoned potato slices, baked until crispy, and loaded with cheese, bacon, jalapeño peppers, tomatoes, sour cream, and onions. It’s a crunchy and addicting appetizer that is especially popular around St. Patrick’s Day—but delicious any time of year! Once you start eating them, you won’t be able to stop!
ingredients
Potato Base
Toppings
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
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In a large bowl, add the sliced potatoes, olive oil, and seasoning mixture. Stir to evenly coat.
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Place potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet(s).
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Bake for 20 minutes. Then, flip the potatoes and bake for an additional 7–9 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Remove the potatoes from the oven and combine all on one baking sheet. Sprinkle with cheese and bacon. Return to the oven for 3–4 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted.
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Top with jalapeño, tomato, sour cream, shallots, and green onions before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
Serving Size 1 portion
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2873kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 195.9g302%
- Saturated Fat 75.5g378%
- Cholesterol 381mg127%
- Sodium 9990mg417%
- Potassium 2100mg60%
- Total Carbohydrate 147.4g50%
- Dietary Fiber 17.4g70%
- Sugars 2.5g
- Protein 134.6g270%
- Calcium 800 mg
- Iron 6 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry potato rounds at 360°F for 15 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes. Add cheese and bacon, then air fry 1–2 more minutes to melt.
- Make Ahead: Cook bacon up to 4 days ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Add Protein: Top with corned beef, pulled pork, shredded chicken, ground beef, or steak for a heartier dish—perfect for St. Patrick’s Day!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Irish Nachos different from regular nachos?
Instead of tortilla chips, Irish Nachos use thinly sliced, seasoned, and baked potatoes as the base—giving them a hearty, crispy, and satisfying crunch.
Can I prep these ahead of time?
You can bake the potato rounds and cook the bacon in advance. Store separately and assemble just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes until crispy and hot.