There’s nothing quite like the delightful crunch of crispy toppings layered over warm, gooey goodness, and Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos bring this joy to a whole new level. Picture this: As I pulled a tray of these vibrant nachos from my oven, the captivating aroma of melted mozzarella and zesty marinara filled my kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. This dish, a clever twist on your traditional nachos, transforms wide lasagna noodles into crispy chips, topped with savory Italian sausage and pepperoni that bring a taste of Italy right to your game day table.
Whether you’re hosting a lively dinner with friends or looking for a fun family meal, these Italian nachos are not just a snack; they’re an experience. Ready in just 40 minutes, they promise an explosion of flavors while being incredibly easy to whip up. Explore the culinary crossroads of Italian comfort and snack-time indulgence—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!
Why are Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with robust Italian flavors, ensuring you experience something unique.
Quick & Easy: Whip up this delightful dish in just 40 minutes — a perfect time-saver for game day.
Family-Friendly Fun: Little ones and adults alike will love the fun, customizable toppings.
Innovative Twist: Enjoy the unexpected crunch of lasagna noodles turning into “chips” for an exciting new approach to nachos.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve these at your next gathering, and watch them disappear— they’re simply irresistible!
For more game day snack ideas, check out our easy appetizers.
Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Ingredients
For the Chips
• Lasagna Noodles – These wide pasta sheets are transformed into crispy “chips” that mimic traditional nacho textures.
• Olive Oil – Essential for crisping up those pasta chips for a perfect golden finish.
• Italian Seasoning – Infuses authentic flavors into the chips; feel free to swap with dried oregano or basil for a twist.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts the savory taste; substitute with fresh garlic for a bolder flavor!
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste; adjust according to your flavor preference.
For the Toppings
• Marinara Sauce – Adds moisture and delightful Italian flavor; use homemade or your favorite store-bought version.
• Italian Sausage – Provides richness and protein; can be substituted with ground turkey or beef for a lighter option.
• Pepperoni – Brings a spicy kick; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we crave on nachos.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, savory finishing touch that complements mozzarella.
• Sliced Black Olives – Optional for an added burst of flavor and texture.
• Fresh Basil – A fragrant garnish that elevates the dish with color and aroma.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional heat for those who enjoy spicy nachos; keep them on the side!
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to make Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos your own!
How to Make Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos
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Prepare the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and cool slightly. This ensures your chips maintain a satisfying crunch.
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Cut the Chips: Once cooled, cut the noodles into triangles or strips resembling chips. This step is key to creating the perfect shape for your nachos.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the cut pasta chips on a baking sheet, ensuring they lay flat for even cooking.
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Season the Chips: Drizzle the noodles with olive oil, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat each chip evenly.
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Bake for Crunch: Bake the seasoned pasta chips for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
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Add the Toppings: Once crispy, remove the chips from the oven and distribute cooked Italian sausage and sliced pepperoni evenly over them.
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Sauce it Up: Pour warmed marinara sauce generously across the loaded chips, allowing it to seep into the crevices.
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Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve: Top with sliced black olives and fresh basil before serving hot. This adds a delightful pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick of heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the pasta chips (lasagna noodles) up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flavors to meld while maintaining their crunch. Simply follow the first three steps: cook and cut the noodles, then season and bake until crispy. Allow the chips to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to prevent moisture. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chips quickly in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes, then layer your desired toppings and bake them until the cheese is melted. This way, you will enjoy just as delicious nachos with minimal effort, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights!
Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Variations
Customize your delicious nachos and explore new flavors with these tempting twists!
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms or colorful bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with cheddar or provolone instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile that complements the marinara.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or banana peppers for an extra layer of heat that will spice things up.
- Gourmet Touch: Try using ricotta cheese dolloped on top for a creamy contrast that enhances the Italian flair of this dish.
- Italian Herbs: Mix in fresh arugula or spinach alongside the basil for a fresh, peppery taste.
- Crunch Factor: Switch out black olives for crispy fried onions or chicharrones for an unexpected crunch that adds texture.
- Breakfast Nachos: Top with scrambled eggs and crumbled feta for a delightful brunch version that turns the dish on its head.
Expert Tips for Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos
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Perfect Noodle Texture: Make sure to cook lasagna noodles al dente; this helps the “chips” maintain their crunch after baking, avoiding sogginess.
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Cool Before Cutting: Allow the boiled noodles to cool slightly before cutting them into chips. This prevents them from becoming too brittle and breaking easily.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the pasta chips while they’re baking. They can go from perfectly golden to burnt quickly—aim for a light brown color for the best flavor.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends for Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos. Combining mozzarella with provolone or cheddar can elevate flavors and enhance meltiness.
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Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to mix and match toppings! Consider adding different savory options or fresh veggies to personalize your nachos for every occasion.
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Serving Fresh: Serve these delicious nachos immediately for the ultimate crunch. Pair with a light salad or breadsticks to create a fulfilling meal.
How to Store and Freeze Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore some crunch.
Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled nachos before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover nachos in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help maintain the texture of the chips while warming the toppings.
Serving Fresh: To truly enjoy the flavorful crunch of Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos, serve them immediately after baking, as they are at their best just out of the oven.
What to Serve with Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos?
Creating a delightful dining experience is easy with the right pairings alongside these irresistible nachos.
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Crispy Caesar Salad: The lightness of romaine lettuce and the crunch of croutons balance the richness of the nachos, making each bite refreshing.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Warm and buttery, they are perfect for mopping up any leftover marinara sauce; a classic Italian combination that everyone loves!
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites provide a contrasting texture and flavor, adding an elegant touch to your game day spread.
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Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze bring vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, enhancing the Italian theme.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The citrusy fizz complements the savory nature of the nachos, cleansing the palate and adding a fun twist to your drink selection.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, the warm, gooey chocolate dessert is a fabulous ending, balancing the savory with sweet in a delightful way.
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Italian Wine: A bold red like Chianti or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio pairs harmoniously with the flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Serve these selections alongside your Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos, and you’ll create a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos Recipe FAQs
What kind of lasagna noodles should I use for the chips?
You should use traditional lasagna noodles for the best result! They mimic the texture of nacho chips beautifully. Look for wide pasta sheets without any added flavors, as they will crisp up nicely in the oven. Ensure they are cooked al dente for the best crunch!
How can I store Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps to restore some of the original crunch of the pasta chips.
Can I freeze Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos?
Absolutely! If you want to prep ahead, you can assemble the nachos without baking and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to your cooking time to ensure everything is heated through.
What can I do if my pasta chips are soggy after baking?
If your pasta chips turn out soggy, it may be due to overcooking the noodles or adding too many wet toppings. To restore them, place the nachos back in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes to help crisp them up again. For next time, ensure your noodles are as crispy as possible before adding toppings.
Are there any vegetarian options for Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos?
Definitely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even zucchini for a delicious vegetarian twist. Just be sure to add plenty of herbs and spices to keep those Italian flavors in check!
Savor Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos for the Ultimate Game Day Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and cool slightly.
- Cut the Chips: Once cooled, cut the noodles into triangles or strips resembling chips.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the cut pasta chips on a baking sheet.
- Season the Chips: Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
- Bake for Crunch: Bake the chips for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Add the Toppings: Remove chips from the oven and distribute cooked Italian sausage and sliced pepperoni evenly over them.
- Sauce it Up: Pour warmed marinara sauce generously across the loaded chips.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with sliced black olives and fresh basil before serving hot.