Irish Nachos
Irish Nachos put a flavorful twist on classic nachos by swapping out tortilla chips for crispy potato slices.
Topped with melted cheese, bacon, green onions and a dollop of sour cream, this hearty dish combines comfort food with pub-style indulgence.
We just love this as one of our St Patricks Day Recipes but you can love it throughout the year, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a satisfying snack.

Perfect for game days, casual get-togethers, or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, this crowd-pleasing appetizer brings a comforting and flavorful touch to any occasion.
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What Are Irish Nachos
Irish nachos are a delicious twist on traditional nachos, made by layering crispy potato slices or fries with toppings like melted cheese, bacon, green onions, sour cream and sometimes jalapeños.
Are Irish Nachos from Ireland
No, Irish nachos are not from Ireland.
They originated in the United States and are named for their use of potatoes, a staple in Irish cuisine.
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The dish combines potato slices or fries with nacho-style toppings, blending Irish-inspired elements with Tex-Mex flavors.
Who Invented Irish Nachos
Irish nachos are credited to J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill in Arlington, Texas.
The dish was reportedly created in the 1970s by the bar’s owner, Tom “J. Gilligan” Jones, who used thinly sliced potatoes as a base for nacho-style toppings.

It has since become a popular pub dish across the U.S., celebrated for its hearty and flavorful twist on traditional nachos.
What To Serve With Irish Nachos
Pair Irish nachos with complementary dishes like:
- Dips: Ranch, sour cream or guacamole for extra flavor.
- Salads: A crisp side salad to balance the richness.
- Grilled Proteins: Chicken wings, sausages, or steak bites.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed veggies for a lighter contrast.
- Beverages: Beer, cider or a refreshing soda to round out the meal.
These combinations create a satisfying and versatile spread for any occasion.
Nacho Ingredients
Ingredients for these delicious Irish nachos include:
- bacon
- Russet potatoes
- olive oil
- paprika
- onion power
- garlic powder
- black pepper
- white cheddar cheese
- mild cheddar cheese
- sour cream
How to Make Irish Pub Nachos
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Wash and dry potatoes, then slice into ¼-inch rounds.
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Toss potato slices in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder and garlic powder.

Arrange slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
Twist bacon strips and place them on a separate parchment or foil-lined baking sheet.
Bake for about 15 minutes or until crispy.
Remove potatoes and bacon from the oven; increase oven temperature to 475°F.
Pat bacon dry, chop, and set aside.
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In an 8×8-inch dish, layer potatoes, shredded cheese, and bacon. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.

Bake for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve topped with green onions, chives and sour cream, if desired.
More Irish Pub Recipes
Explore more Irish pub recipes for hearty, flavorful dishes that bring the charm of Ireland to your table.
- Irish Stew
- Leek and Potato Soup
- Traditional Irish Potato Bread
- Guiness Stew
- Irish Apple Cake
- Corned Beef and Cabbage
- American Irish Beef Stew

Irish Nachos
Irish nachos put a flavorful twist on classic nachos by swapping out tortilla chips for crispy potato slices.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bacon (half a pack)
- 2-3 Russet Potatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp onion power
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- Sour Cream to serve
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Wash and dry potatoes, then slice into ¼-inch rounds.
- Toss potato slices in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Arrange slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
- Twist bacon strips and place them on a separate parchment or foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes or until crispy.
- Remove potatoes and bacon from the oven; increase oven temperature to 475°F.
- Pat bacon dry, chop, and set aside.
- In an 8x8-inch dish, layer potatoes, shredded cheese, and bacon. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Bake for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve topped with green onions, chives, and sour cream, if desired.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 731Total Fat: 50gSaturated Fat: 19gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 27gCholesterol: 114mgSodium: 1818mgCarbohydrates: 34gFiber: 4gSugar: 2gProtein: 36g
Nutrient values are only estimates provided by online calculators. Various factors can change the nutritional information in any given recipe.
For more delicious Irish recipes:
The Complete Irish Pub Cookbook: Traditional Easy and Simple Recipies for Beginners to ExpertsOur Irish Grannies’ Recipes: Comforting and Delicious Cooking From the Old Country to Your Family’s Table
Real Irish Food: 150 Classic Recipes from the Old Country
My Irish Table: Recipes from the Homeland and Restaurant Eve