Name: Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat: Crispy Comfort at Home
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 43 min
Ingredients: 1 pack Wonton Wrappers (Cut into triangles); 1 lb Ground Italian Pork Sausage (Opt for pre-seasoned varieties); 1 cup Pepperoni (Can substitute with salami); 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Low-moisture mozzarella works best); 1 cup Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese (Can substitute with Monterey Jack or cheddar); 1/2 cup Pepperoncini or Banana Peppers (Optional for zest); 1 cup Marinara Sauce (For dipping); 2 cups Vegetable or Canola Oil (Essential for frying)

As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of sizzling sausage mingling with the rich scent of melting cheese filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite Italian restaurant. Here’s the magic—today, I’m sharing my take on Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe. These crunchy, crispy wonton chips aren’t just for snacking; they’re a flavor explosion, piled high with pepperoni, Italian sausage, and gooey melted cheese, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With a prep time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for spontaneous gatherings or a cozy night in. You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-quality appetizer right in your own kitchen! Ready to indulge in a cheesy, savory delight that will impress your friends and family? Let’s dive in!

What Makes This Recipe a Must-Try?

Easy Preparation: With just 30 minutes, you can whip up this restaurant-quality delight, making it a go-to for last-minute gatherings.
Crispy Goodness: The wonton chips provide a satisfying crunch that elevates the entire dish, offering a unique twist on standard nachos.
Versatile Toppings: Customize your nachos! Add diced tomatoes or black olives for a personal touch, ensuring everyone gets their favorite flavors.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for game days or parties, these nachos cater to both casual eaters and gourmet tastes alike.
Dipping Delight: Served with zesty marinara, it’s not just a snack; it’s an experience! For another refreshing dipping option, consider making a batch of my Vanilla Cold Brew popsicles for a unique pairing.

Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Ingredients

• Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a snack, having the right ingredients on hand is key to recreating this delicious dish!

For the Wontons

Wonton Wrappers – Cut into triangles to achieve that perfect nacho shape, ensuring a delightful crunch when fried.

For the Toppings

Ground Italian Pork Sausage – Opt for pre-seasoned varieties for added flavor without the fuss.
Pepperoni – A classic choice that brings that irresistible pizza taste; try salami for a different twist.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully; low-moisture mozzarella works best for an optimal texture.
Shredded Pepper Jack Cheese – Adds a hint of spice; feel free to switch it with Monterey Jack or cheddar if you prefer a milder flavor.
Pepperoncini or Banana Peppers – For a mild kick and tanginess; these are optional but highly recommended for extra zest.

For Serving

Marinara Sauce – For dipping, choose homemade or your favorite store-bought variety for that authentic Italian flavor.
Vegetable or Canola Oil – Essential for frying the wontons, ensuring they turn crispy and golden.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to make the most delightful Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat right at home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat

Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground Italian sausage and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break apart any large clumps with a spatula. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set it aside, allowing the flavors to rest while you prepare the wonton chips.

Step 2: Prepare Wonton Chips
Cut the wonton wrappers diagonally into triangles to form chips. In a separate pan, heat enough vegetable or canola oil to submerge the chips, about 1 inch deep, over medium heat. Once the oil is bubbling, fry the wonton triangles in batches for about 1 minute on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Assemble the Nachos
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a large baking sheet, lay out the crispy wonton chips in a single layer. Start layering the nachos by adding the cooked Italian sausage, pepperoni slices, and a generous sprinkle of shredded pepper jack cheese. Finally, top everything with shredded mozzarella for that oozing, gooey finish.

Step 4: Bake the Nachos
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the assembled nachos for about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the cheeses are fully melted and bubbly, creating a delightful cheesy layer. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen and set the stage for this amazing crowd-pleaser!

Step 5: Serve with Marinara Sauce
Once baked to perfection, remove the nachos from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm alongside a bowl of zesty marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of crispy wonton chips, savory toppings, and rich marinara creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for more of these Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat!

Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and put a personal spin on this delightful nacho recipe!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage for a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vibrant twist. This gives you all the flavor without the meat!
Lower Fat Version: Swap out the regular cheese for reduced-fat cheese options, preserving the taste while cutting back on calories, making it a bit lighter yet just as indulgent.
Extra Spice: Amp up the heat with jalapeño slices or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper over the top before baking. Spicy nachos can awaken the taste buds!
Flavor Boost: Consider adding roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flavor. They not only taste great but also add a lovely pop of color.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with a cheese blend—like gouda or even a sharp cheddar—if you’re looking to change up the cheesy profile entirely. This simple swap can elevate the flavor considerably!
Creamy Topping: For an indulgent touch, drizzle a homemade or store-bought creamy garlic sauce over the nachos just before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor that’s simply irresistible!
Baked Version: Bake the wonton chips without frying for a healthier twist. Lightly brush with olive oil before baking for a crispy texture without the extra oil.

For more delicious inspiration, try my take on this scrumptious Copycat KFC Roast for another crowd-pleaser, or cool off with my refreshing Vanilla Cold Brew popsicles; they pair wonderfully with savory bites!

Make Ahead Options

These Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the wonton chips up to 24 hours in advance by frying them until crispy and storing them in an airtight container. Additionally, the sausage can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just be sure to let it cool completely before storing to maintain its flavor. When ready to serve, simply reassemble the nachos on a baking sheet with the cold ingredients and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Enjoy the convenience of delicious appetizer magic with minimal final effort!

Storage Tips for Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat

Fridge: Store any leftover nachos in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crunchiness of the wonton chips.

Freezer: If making in advance, freeze assembled nachos (without baking) for up to 1 month. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Note: Enjoy these delightful nachos fresh, but reheating can still bring back the deliciousness of your Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat!

What to Serve with Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat

Transform your appetizer into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that complement every cheesy bite.

Crispy Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens with tangy vinaigrette brings a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy nachos.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful, these pasta-stuffed caps add a unique twist, bringing an Italian flair alongside your nachos.
Garlic Bread Sticks: Golden and buttery, these are perfect for sopping up the delicious marinara sauce, adding heartiness to your meal.
Milanese Chicken Salad: Tender, breaded chicken sits atop fresh greens for a satisfying combination of textures. It makes a lovely counter to the nachos’ crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasoned veggies roasted to perfection provides a savory and colorful side that balances the richness of the nachos.
Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese enhances the meal with its fruity notes, harmonizing beautifully with the savory flavors.
Gelato for Dessert: End on a sweet note with creamy gelato, allowing for a delightful contrast to the savory, spicy nachos. Choose classic flavors like pistachio or chocolate for a dreamy finish.

Tips for the Best Italian Nachos

Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough, around 350°F (175°C), before frying the wonton chips. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture without sogginess.
Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the wonton chips; working in small batches guarantees even cooking and the best crunch for your Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat.
Layering Strategy: When assembling, layer toppings evenly to prevent some parts from becoming overloaded with cheese while others remain bare. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!
Cheese Choices: Stick with low-moisture mozzarella and your favorite melty cheese like pepper jack for optimal creaminess. Avoid too much moisture to prevent a rubbery texture.
Customizing Flavors: Feel free to experiment with additional toppings like olives or fresh herbs. Personalizing your Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat makes them even more satisfying!

Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat Recipe FAQs

What type of wonton wrappers should I use for the nachos?
Absolutely! I recommend using square wonton wrappers; they fry up crispy and provide the perfect chip texture. You can find these at most grocery stores typically in the refrigerated section near the tofu or Asian ingredients.

How should I store leftover Italian nachos?
For the best storage, keep any leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just remember, the chips may lose some of their crispiness, so if you want to enjoy them revived, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crunch!

Can I freeze the assembled nachos?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat, prepare everything except for baking. Assemble the nachos on a baking sheet, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect results.

How can I prevent my wonton chips from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy chips, ensure your oil is heated to about 350°F (175°C) before frying. If the oil isn’t hot enough, it can lead to greasy or soggy chips. Fry the wontons in smaller batches to give each one enough space to cook evenly without steaming. Lastly, be sure to drain the fried chips well on paper towels right after cooking!

Are these nachos suitable for people with allergies?
While the Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Copycat contains common allergens like wheat (in the wonton wrappers) and dairy (in the cheese), you can easily adapt the recipe. For gluten-free options, look for rice-based wonton wrappers, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives to cater to those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Always check labels to ensure ingredients fit specific dietary needs.