Crispy Irish Nachos with Cheese and Bacon Recipe

Ingredients

Potatoes and Seasoning

• 2–3 large russet potatoes, washed, sliced into ⅛-inch thick rounds (about 2 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Toppings

• 2 cups (226 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 large jalapeno pepper, seeded, diced for garnish
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced for garnish
• ¼ cup sour cream, for garnish
• 1 medium shallot, diced for garnish
• 2 green onions, diced for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F and line one or two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking the potatoes.
2. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend for the potatoes.
3. In a large bowl, add the sliced potatoes, olive oil, and seasoning mixture. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat all potato slices with oil and spices.
4. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 20 minutes until they start to turn golden and crisp on the bottom.
5. Flip the potato slices carefully and bake for another 9 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
6. Remove potatoes from the oven and transfer all potato slices onto one baking sheet. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes, then add the crumbled bacon on top.
7. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 4 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
8. Remove from oven and immediately top with diced jalapeno, diced tomatoes, sour cream, diced shallots, and green onions to finish your Irish Nachos.

Notes

• To make this recipe in an air fryer, season the potato slices and air fry at 360°F for 15 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes.
• You may need to air fry in batches depending on your basket size.
• After air frying, place cheese and bacon on potatoes and air fry again for 1-2 minutes until cheese melts.
• Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking during final melting step.
• Use thick-cut bacon for best texture and flavor, and cook until crisp before crumbling.
• Adjust jalapeno amount according to your spice preference.
• Serve Irish Nachos immediately when cheese is melty and potatoes are crispy for best taste.