Loaded Potato Chip Nachos Recipe

Name: Loaded Potato Chip Nachos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix, divided; 1 cup sour cream; 10 slices bacon; 12 ounces wavy, kettle cooked potato chips, from 1 1/2 bags, such as Cape Cod Waves; 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese; green onions; hot sauce

Cook Time: 20 minutes

This delicious dish is a perfect snack for any gathering. With crispy chips, melty cheese, bacon, and a creamy ranch dipping sauce, it's sure to impress.

Ingredients

1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning, divided
1 cup sour cream
10 slices bacon
12 ounces wavy, kettle-cooked potato chips (such as Cape Cod Waves), about 1 1/2 bags
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
3 green onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425F (220C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chips in an even layer.
Prepare the sour cream dip: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning with the sour cream. Stir well and set aside.
Cook the bacon: Place the bacon slices in a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned (about 10 minutes). Drain the bacon on paper towels and crumble once its cool enough to handle.
Assemble the dish: In a separate bowl, mix the remaining ranch seasoning with the shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Sprinkle this cheese mixture evenly over the chips.
Top with bacon: Evenly distribute the crumbled bacon over the cheesy chips.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the chips begin to crisp and brown.
Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and top with sliced green onions and a drizzle of hot sauce (optional). Serve with the reserved sour cream dipping sauce on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	464
Total Fat	34g (44% DV)
Saturated Fat	13g (67% DV)
Cholesterol	68mg (23% DV)
Sodium	882mg (38% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	22g (8% DV)
Dietary Fiber	1g (5% DV)
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	18g (36% DV)
Vitamin C	8mg (9% DV)
Calcium	376mg (29% DV)
Iron	1mg (5% DV)
Potassium	570mg (12% DV)

Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

Loaded Potato Chip Nachos are a fun and indulgent twist on traditional nachos, using potato chips instead of tortillas for a crunchy base. Topped with melted cheese, crumbled bacon, and a ranch-flavored sour cream dipping sauce, these nachos offer a perfect balance of savory and creamy flavors, making them a popular choice for snacking, parties, or as a unique appetizer.

History of Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

While the exact origin of Loaded Potato Chip Nachos is unclear, the idea of using chips as a base for nacho toppings likely came from the increasing popularity of creative takes on traditional nachos. The concept of nachos has Mexican roots, originating in the 1940s in the town of Piedras Negras, Mexico. The use of potato chips instead of tortillas is a modern spin, perhaps inspired by the growing popularity of potato chips in American snacking culture. This dish represents a fusion of traditional nacho flavors with the crispy texture of potato chips, making it an easy-to-prepare, crowd-pleasing snack.

Regional Variations

Although Loaded Potato Chip Nachos have a general recipe, regional variations can be found based on local tastes. In the southwestern United States, where nachos are a staple, the addition of jalapeos, guacamole, or even chili con carne is not uncommon. Some regions may also substitute different cheeses or toppings like chili, pulled pork, or barbecue sauce to create a more personalized dish. In contrast, simpler versions with only cheese and bacon remain a favorite in many households as a quick and easy snack option.

What Makes These Nachos Different?

Unlike traditional nachos that use tortilla chips as a base, Loaded Potato Chip Nachos offer a unique twist with the use of crispy, wavy potato chips. The key difference lies in the texture: potato chips are thinner and crispier, providing an additional crunch that contrasts with the melting cheese and creamy toppings. Furthermore, the ranch seasoning mix adds a tangy, herby flavor that is typically not found in classic nachos. The addition of sour cream and hot sauce as a dip or drizzle also differentiates these nachos from their traditional counterparts, which usually have salsa or guacamole as accompaniments.

Where Are Loaded Potato Chip Nachos Typically Served?

Loaded Potato Chip Nachos are popular in casual settings, often served as an appetizer at parties, family gatherings, or game day events. Their easy-to-prepare nature makes them a favorite choice for home cooks looking to create a snack that everyone will enjoy without a lot of hassle. They are also frequently found in bars and pubs, served as a fun twist on traditional nachos that can pair well with beers or cocktails. Restaurants that specialize in comfort food or fusion cuisine may offer Loaded Potato Chip Nachos as a creative addition to their menu, appealing to those looking for a savory snack or sharing platter.

Interesting Facts About Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

1. Potato chips have been around for centuries, with the first known mention dating back to 1853 when George Crum, a chef at a New York resort, created them accidentally when a customer complained about his fried potatoes being too thick. The popularity of chips exploded in the 20th century, leading to various innovations in their use in recipes like nachos.

2. The concept of "loaded nachos" has evolved from simple cheese-topped chips to extravagant dishes with various meats, vegetables, and sauces. Loaded Potato Chip Nachos are part of this evolution, making use of available ingredients to create a delicious snack that's both quick and satisfying.

3. The use of ranch dressing seasoning in these nachos reflects America's obsession with ranch as a dipping sauce, which is often paired with fries, pizza, or wings. The popularity of ranch dressing grew rapidly in the 1980s, making it one of the most beloved condiments in the United States.

Conclusion

Loaded Potato Chip Nachos combine the best of both worlds: the crispy crunch of potato chips with the delicious toppings of classic nachos. This dish offers a fun and customizable snack option that can be tailored to suit any taste. Whether served at a party, a casual dinner, or simply as a tasty treat at home, Loaded Potato Chip Nachos are sure to become a crowd favorite!

FAQ about Loaded Potato Chip Nachos Recipe

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the chips may lose their crispness upon reheating. For best results, you can store the cheese and bacon separately and reassemble them when ready to eat.

To reheat the nachos, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted again. You can also microwave them, but the chips will likely become soggy.

Yes, you can use any type of kettle-cooked chips, but wavy or thick-cut chips tend to hold up better under the weight of the toppings. If you prefer, you can also use tortilla chips for a more traditional nacho feel.

You can prepare the toppings (bacon, cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and sour cream dip) ahead of time and store them separately. When you're ready to serve, just assemble the nachos and bake them in the oven for 10-12 minutes.

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative if you're looking for a healthier or dairy-free option.

Any type of bacon will work, but thick-cut bacon tends to provide a better texture and flavor. You can also use turkey bacon if you're looking for a leaner option.

It is not recommended to freeze the nachos as the chips will become soggy upon reheating. However, you can freeze the cheese and bacon topping separately, and then assemble and bake the nachos fresh.

To add more heat, you can sprinkle extra hot sauce over the nachos before or after baking, or include sliced jalapeños as a topping.

Yes, you can make your own ranch seasoning mix by combining dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Adjust the quantities to taste.

Comments

Steven Sanchez

11/10/2024 09:11:11 PM

I have been eager to try making these ever since I watched the video - and they did not disappoint! Thanks, Nicole, for this delicious recipe. Since I can't have corn chips, this was the perfect nacho substitute. The ingredients were simple to gather, and now it has become one of my daughter's preferred snacks. I was a bit bummed that I missed adding the hot sauce at the end, but I'll definitely be making them again soon!

William Moore

08/31/2022 01:46:22 AM

Great dish! I'm not a big fan of green onions, so I omitted them. I also used Frank's Original hot sauce with a light sprinkle over the entire dish, and it turned out fantastic.