The hearty crunch of crispy waffle fries, the inviting aroma of sautéed vegetables, and the silky smoothness of a rich cheese sauce all collide in a delightful dish I can’t get enough of: Irish Breakfast Nachos. This unexpected twist on classic nachos is more than just comfort food; it brings a cozy yet indulgent vibe to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or planning a game day feast, these nachos are sure to impress.
Imagine gathering around the table with friends or family, the sun streaming through the window, as you serve up layers of golden fries topped with caramelized onions, vibrant bell peppers, and crispy bacon—all drizzled with a velvety cheddar sauce. It’s a dish that sparks joy with every bite, effortlessly blending the beloved elements of an Irish breakfast into a fun, shareable delight.
Ready to elevate your snacking game? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s bound to become a favorite in your home!
Why are Irish Breakfast Nachos a must-try?
Simplicity, yet deliciously satisfying, this recipe requires minimal time in the kitchen while delivering maximum flavor. Versatile, you can easily customize toppings to suit your preferences—swap bacon for plant-based options or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. Crowd-pleasing, these nachos are perfect for brunch or game day gatherings, guaranteeing smiles all around. Indulgent, the creamy cheese sauce perfectly complements the crispy waffle fries, creating a comfort food experience like no other. Elevate your brunch game today with these fantastic Irish Breakfast Nachos!
Irish Breakfast Nachos Ingredients
For the Fries
- Waffle Cut French Fries – Frozen waffle fries make for a quick, crispy base; fresh homemade fries can be a healthier choice.
For the Sautéed Veggies
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A great choice for sautéing vegetables; you can substitute with any neutral oil.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the veggies; use more oil for a dairy-free version.
- Yellow Onion (½, chopped) – Sweet and aromatic when sautéed; shallots can be used as a milder alternative.
- Green Bell Pepper (½, chopped) – Provides a fresh crunch and vibrant color; any sweet pepper works as a substitute.
- Red Bell Pepper (½, chopped) – Similar to green bell pepper, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to suit your taste preferences.
For the Cheese Sauce
- Evaporated Milk (4 ounces) – Key for creaminess; whole milk or cream is a suitable substitute if needed.
- Egg (1) – Helps achieve a smooth texture; can be omitted or swapped for a vegan alternative.
- Dry Mustard (1 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle tang; Dijon mustard can be used instead.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on taste.
- Cracked Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds a touch of heat and freshness.
- Shredded White Cheddar Cheese (8 ounces) – The star of the sauce; replace it with your favorite melty cheese if desired.
- Tapioca Starch (1 ½ teaspoons) or Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce for a nice creamy texture; omit for a thinner sauce.
- Lemon Juice (1 ½ teaspoons) – Balances rich flavors; vinegar can serve as a substitute.
For the Toppings
- Crispy Cooked Bacon (6 strips, ½ inch pieces) – Rich and savory; use plant-based bacon for a vegetarian option.
- Fried Eggs (1 to 3, with crispy edges and runny yolks) – Adds a luxury texture; scrambled eggs are a lovely alternative.
- Thinly Sliced Chives (2 to 3 tablespoons) – For garnish and a mild onion flavor; green onions can substitute well.
How to Make Irish Breakfast Nachos
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400˚F. Prepare to bake the delicious, crispy waffle fries that serve as the perfect base for your nachos. -
Bake the Fries:
Spread frozen waffle fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them for the best crunch! -
Sauté the Veggies:
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped yellow onion for 3 minutes, then add the green and red bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until slightly caramelized—about 4-5 minutes. -
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together 4 ounces of evaporated milk, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of cracked black pepper. Mix until combined. -
Incorporate the Cheese:
Gradually add in 8 ounces of shredded white cheddar cheese, 1 ½ teaspoons of tapioca starch, and 1 ½ teaspoons of lemon juice. Whisk constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy. You want that melting, inviting texture! -
Assemble the Nachos:
On a larger platter, layer half of the crispy waffle fries, followed by half of the sautéed veggies, and half of the crispy bacon pieces. Drizzle half of the cheese sauce over this delightful mix. Repeat these layers, finishing with fried egg(s) on top. Season with additional salt and pepper, then garnish with fresh chives. -
Serve Immediately:
Gather everyone around and serve your delightful Irish Breakfast Nachos while they’re hot and gooey. Enjoy the ooey-gooey goodness together!
Optional: Try adding avocado slices for extra creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Irish Breakfast Nachos are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time when cravings hit! You can prepare the sautéed veggies and the cheese sauce up to 48 hours in advance; simply cool both to room temperature before storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, be sure to cover the assembled nachos with foil if prepping the entire dish ahead, and do not add fried eggs or chives until ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, pop your nachos in the oven at 400˚F for about 15-20 minutes to heat through. Finish by adding the fried eggs and garnishing with chives to maximize freshness!
Expert Tips for Irish Breakfast Nachos
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Whisk Slow: Whisk the cheese sauce slowly to avoid clumping. Adding cheese in small handfuls ensures a smooth, velvety result.
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Layer Wisely: Layer the ingredients strategically, starting with fries, then veggies, and bacon to maximize flavor with every bite.
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Crispy Fries: Spread the frozen waffle fries out on the baking sheet to ensure they bake evenly and achieve that desired crispiness.
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Egg Alternatives: If you’re short on eggs, consider replacing with scrambled eggs or omit them for a lighter version of the Irish Breakfast Nachos.
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Customize Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings; jalapeños or avocado can add extra flavor and texture to your nachos.
What to Serve with Irish Breakfast Nachos?
Imagine hosting friends around a vibrant table filled with flavors that dance together harmoniously—perfect for sharing during brunch or game day!
- Zesty Salsa: Serve a fresh salsa on the side to add a burst of flavor, enhancing the comforting ingredients of the nachos.
- Crispy Fried Plantains: Their sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the rich nachos, making every bite a new adventure.
- Guacamole: Creamy and cool, it counterbalances the savory elements, adding a refreshing touch that everyone will adore.
- Crisp Green Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette brings a freshness that lightens up the indulgence of the nachos.
- Spicy Pickled Jalapeños: Add some heat to your meal with pickled jalapeños, balancing the richness with their zesty kick.
- Craft Beer: Pairing with a light, fruity beer can enhance the flavors, making it a perfect match for the hearty dish.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal sweetly with warm chocolate chip cookies; their sweetness rounds out the savory flavors beautifully.
Irish Breakfast Nachos Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with this recipe for Irish Breakfast Nachos to make it your own!
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Sweet Potato Fries: Swap out waffle fries for sweet potato fries to add a natural sweetness and extra nutrition.
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Vegan Option: Replace cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese and omit the egg for a completely vegan version. Use almond milk for a tasty cheese sauce.
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Bacon Alternatives: Use crispy turkey bacon or cooked chorizo for a different protein; mushrooms can also add a savory, umami kick.
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the cheese sauce for an exciting burst of heat.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley instead of chives for a fresh flavor twist.
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Creamy Avocado: Top with diced avocado or guacamole to elevate the creaminess and add a vibrant color contrast.
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Grain-Free Swap: For a gluten-free option, serve atop tortilla chips or corn tortilla slices instead of waffle fries.
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Layered Additions: Add black beans or refried beans for extra protein and heartiness that perfectly complements the dish.
Whatever you choose, these variations will help you craft a version of Irish Breakfast Nachos that’s uniquely yours!
Storage Tips for Irish Breakfast Nachos
Fridge: Store leftover Irish Breakfast Nachos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the flavors intact while preventing sogginess.
Freezer: While not recommended, you can freeze individual components separately. Waffle fries freeze well, but the layers should be assembled fresh for the best taste.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will restore the crispness of the fries and melt the cheese.
Wrapping: If you’re storing nachos, cover them tightly with plastic wrap to avoid moisture loss and retain flavors.
Irish Breakfast Nachos Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the right waffle fries for my nachos?
Absolutely! Look for waffle fries that are golden and crispy in appearance. The best frozen fries will have minimal dark spots or uneven texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also make fresh waffle fries from scratch using your favorite potatoes!
What is the best way to store leftover Irish Breakfast Nachos?
You can store leftover nachos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure to layer any toppings separately to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, which helps retain the crispiness of the fries!
Can I freeze leftover ingredients from the nachos?
Certainly! While it’s best to assemble these nachos fresh, you can freeze the individual components separately. Waffle fries can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. For other toppings, sauté veggies and bacon in advance, allowing them to cool before freezing.
What should I do if my cheese sauce is clumpy?
If your cheese sauce turns out clumpy, don’t worry! The key is to whisk it continuously over medium-low heat. If it’s too thick, add a splash of evaporated milk, stirring until smooth. You could also remove it from the heat, let it sit for a minute, then return it to whisk further for a luscious texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten due to the waffles. If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using a gluten-free alternative for the fries and cheese. Plant-based cheeses and vegan bacon are excellent substitutes if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens.
How can I make these Irish Breakfast Nachos even more colorful and nutritious?
Very! To amp up the nutritional factor and add color, consider adding toppings like diced tomatoes, corn, or even spinach. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful crunch and freshness to every bite!
Savor Irish Breakfast Nachos for a Fun Brunch Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400˚F. Prepare to bake the delicious, crispy waffle fries that serve as the perfect base for your nachos.
- Spread frozen waffle fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped yellow onion for 3 minutes, then add the green and red bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper, cooking until slightly caramelized—about 4-5 minutes.
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together 4 ounces of evaporated milk, 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of dry mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of cracked black pepper. Mix until combined.
- Gradually add in 8 ounces of shredded white cheddar cheese, 1 ½ teaspoons of tapioca starch, and 1 ½ teaspoons of lemon juice. Whisk constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- On a larger platter, layer half of the crispy waffle fries, followed by half of the sautéed veggies, and half of the crispy bacon pieces. Drizzle half of the cheese sauce over this delightful mix. Repeat these layers, finishing with fried egg(s) on top.
- Gather everyone around and serve your delightful Irish Breakfast Nachos while they're hot and gooey. Enjoy!