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Crispy Irish Nachos with Cheesy Waffle Fries

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A quick and easy snack featuring crispy waffle fries topped with a blend of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, bacon, jalapeños, and green onions, served with sour cream.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) frozen waffle fries
  • 1½ cups (170g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
  • ½ cup (120ml) sour cream
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper, sliced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Spread the frozen waffle fries evenly on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid crowding to keep them crispy.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crunchy. (If using an air fryer, cook at 400°F/200°C for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway.)
  4. While fries bake, shred cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and mix them together with smoked paprika in a bowl.
  5. Cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  6. When fries are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the fries, then scatter the bacon crumbles and sliced jalapeños on top.
  7. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Remove from oven and sprinkle sliced green onions over the top. Let cool for a minute or two so the cheese sets slightly.
  9. Serve immediately with dollops of sour cream on the side or drizzled over. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Notes

Do not overcrowd fries to keep them crispy. Add cheese only after fries are mostly cooked to avoid sogginess. Pre-cook bacon separately to prevent greasiness. For extra crispiness, line baking sheet with parchment paper. If cheese isn’t melting evenly, broil for 30 seconds but watch closely to avoid burning. Serve sour cream on the side or drizzled just before eating to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Irish nachos, waffle fries, cheesy fries, snack, appetizer, game day food, comfort food