Irish Nachos: A Crispy, Cheesy Pub-Inspired Crowd-Pleaser
When you think of nachos, you probably picture a mountain of tortilla chips smothered in melted cheese, jalapeños, and other classic Tex-Mex toppings. But what if we told you there was a comforting, pub-style twist that swaps the chips for crispy roasted potato rounds? Welcome to the hearty, satisfying world of Irish Nachos.
Irish Nachos are a delicious fusion of familiar bar food and Irish comfort cuisine. Think baked potato meets nacho platter—savory, cheesy, smoky, and topped with all the fixings. They’re the perfect appetizer for game day, St. Patrick’s Day, or anytime you’re feeding a hungry crowd.
Let’s dive into what makes Irish Nachos so irresistible—and how to make them at home in just a few easy steps.
What Are Irish Nachos?
Despite the name, Irish Nachos aren’t traditionally Irish. They’re more of an American-Irish pub creation—often seen on bar menus alongside shepherd’s pie and Guinness-battered fish and chips. The “Irish” part refers to the star ingredient: potatoes.
Instead of tortilla chips, Irish Nachos use sliced russet potatoes that are roasted until golden and crispy. They’re then layered with gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and all your favorite nacho toppings like sour cream, green onions, and jalapeños. The result? A warm, hearty platter that combines comfort food with the snackable appeal of nachos.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty and comforting – Perfect for cold weather or when you’re craving something indulgent.
Versatile – Customize with your favorite toppings or make it vegetarian.
Crowd-friendly – Great for parties, game days, or as a side dish.
Gluten-free – Naturally, as long as your toppings are too.
Pub-inspired flavor – Cheddar, bacon, and sour cream never go out of style.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for a basic (and delicious) tray of Irish Nachos:
4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a subtle smokiness and color
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Or a blend like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Irish cheddar
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled – Adds savory crunch
½ cup sour cream – Drizzled over the top for tangy creaminess
¼ cup green onions or chives, chopped – For a fresh finish
¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional) – For color and a juicy pop
Pickled jalapeños (optional) – For those who like a little heat
How to Make Irish Nachos (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Slice your russet potatoes into ¼-inch rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform so they cook evenly.
In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Mix until all slices are evenly coated.
Pro Tip: Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 15–20 minutes beforehand and dry them thoroughly. This removes excess starch and results in crispier potatoes.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes
Arrange the slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping to ensure crispness.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. They should be golden brown and crisp around the edges.
Optional: For even crispier results, use a wire rack on your baking sheet to let air circulate underneath the potatoes.
Step 4: Assemble the Nachos
Once your potato slices are golden and crispy, transfer them to a large oven-safe platter, cast iron skillet, or keep them on the same baking sheet.
Sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the potatoes, followed by the crumbled bacon.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Return the platter or baking sheet to the oven for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Add Your Toppings
Carefully remove from the oven. While still hot, drizzle sour cream over the top. You can spoon it on or pipe it using a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off.
Top with:
Chopped green onions or chives
Diced tomatoes (optional)
Pickled jalapeños (optional)
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Irish Nachos immediately while hot and gooey. They pair beautifully with cold beer, hard cider, or even a refreshing soda for the non-drinkers in the crowd.
Offer extra sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Irish Nachos
Use a mandoline for even potato slices.
Don’t crowd the pan. Spread potatoes out for better roasting.
Layer strategically – Put heavier toppings like bacon under the cheese so they stick.
Double the batch for a crowd—this dish disappears fast!
Variations to Try
1. Vegetarian Irish Nachos
Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, black beans, or caramelized onions.
2. Irish Pub Style
Use Irish cheddar, top with corned beef or leftover brisket, and drizzle with stone-ground mustard or beer cheese sauce.
3. Southwest Style
Add black beans, corn, and spicy queso. Top with cilantro and avocado slices.
4. Loaded Baked Potato Nachos
Top with broccoli, cheddar, chives, and a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
5. Breakfast Nachos
Top baked potatoes with scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and cheese. Bake until melted, then top with salsa.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat and proceed with the cheese and toppings when ready to serve.
How to store leftovers:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again.
Avoid microwaving—potatoes will lose their crispness.
What to Serve With Irish Nachos
Make it a full pub-style feast:
Classic Irish beer – Guinness, Smithwick’s, or Harp Lager
Corned beef sliders or mini shepherd’s pies
Coleslaw or creamy cabbage salad
Onion rings or crispy fried pickles
FAQ: Everything You Want to Know
Are Irish Nachos Irish?
Not truly. They’re an American bar-food invention using Irish-inspired ingredients (mainly potatoes). Still, they’re perfect for celebrating Irish culture, especially on St. Patrick’s Day.
Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes! Sweet potatoes are a great alternative and pair well with smoky toppings like chipotle and bacon.
What cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but Irish cheddar, pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a cheese sauce work well too.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Roast the potato slices at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Then assemble and melt cheese in the oven or air fryer again.
How spicy are pickled jalapeños?
They vary, but most are mildly spicy and tangy. Add sparingly if you’re sensitive to heat.
Why Irish Nachos Belong in Your Rotation
Irish Nachos are one of those dishes that check every box: easy, comforting, flexible, and downright delicious. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, planning a themed dinner, or just want to jazz up your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
It’s the kind of crowd-pleasing platter you’ll turn to again and again—not just for St. Patrick’s Day, but any time the craving for something warm, cheesy, and satisfying strikes.
Printable Recipe: Irish Nachos
Ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup green onions or chives, chopped
¼ cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Pickled jalapeños (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 425°F. Line or grease a baking sheet.
Toss potato slices with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bake in a single layer for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Arrange baked slices on a platter. Top with cheese and bacon.
Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted.
Drizzle sour cream and add toppings like green onions, tomatoes, and jalapeños.
Serve immediately.