Hi, I’m Clara from Cooking Inspired. Let’s dive into a simple twist on a classic favorite: waffle fry nachos. As busy moms, women, and families, we’re always searching for quick, delicious, and fun meal options. I know how it is, believe me. That’s why I’m excited to share this recipe that’s ready in under 30 minutes. These waffle fry nachos are the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Amazing Waffle Fry Nachos: Quick & Easy Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bake the frozen waffle fries according to the package directions until fully cooked and crispy.
- Transfer the hot waffle fries to a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or ovenproof pan.
- Top with the smoked beef bacon, onions, olives, tomatoes, salsa, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Return to the oven until the cheese melts, about five minutes.
- Serve immediately with sour cream.
Notes
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Why Waffle Fry Nachos?
Why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your nacho game with waffle fries? I think it’s a no brainer. The unique texture and increased surface area of waffle fries mean optimal cheese and topping coverage. I believe this makes every bite an explosion of flavor. Seriously, you have to try it. The nooks and crannies of the waffle fries trap all the good stuff; that makes them so much better than regular tortilla chips.
Ingredients for the Best Waffle Fry Nachos
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious waffle fry nachos:
- 1 package (22 ounces) frozen waffle fries
- 10 smoked beef bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 can (6 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained
- 2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
- 2/3 cup salsa
- 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1-1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Sour cream
How to Make Waffle Fry Nachos: Step-by-Step
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a skillet full of deliciousness in no time!
- Bake the frozen waffle fries according to the package directions. I recommend setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) and baking for about 15-20 minutes, but keep an eye on them. Be sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a step you don’t want to skip. Make sure the fries are fully cooked and crunchy before adding toppings, or they’ll turn soggy. I can’t stress this enough; soggy fries are a no-go.
- Transfer the hot waffle fries to a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or ovenproof pan. I love using my cast iron for this, but any oven-safe pan will do. Top with the smoked beef bacon, onions, olives, tomatoes, salsa and both cheeses. If you prefer, you can bake without the salsa and add it just before serving. This keeps the fries from getting too soggy, too. I personally love adding it before; it gives the dish a little extra kick.
- Return to the oven until the cheese melts, about five minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden. Serve immediately with delicious sour cream. You can also add a dollop of guacamole and some fresh pico de gallo.
Tips for Perfectly Melted Cheese
For the most amazing cheese pull, make sure your shredded cheese is evenly distributed over the fries. I also recommend using freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded. It melts better and has a richer flavor. To ensure the cheese melts evenly, avoid overcrowding the fries. If necessary, use a larger pan or divide the fries between two pans.
Waffle Fry Nachos Topping Ideas: Beyond the Basics
Want to get creative? Here are some topping ideas to cater to different tastes:
- BBQ chicken
- Vegetarian black bean
- Spicy jalapeño popper
- Pulled pork
- Carne asada
- Buffalo chicken
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few things can go wrong, but don’t worry, I’m here to help. If your fries are getting soggy, make sure they are fully cooked and crispy before adding toppings. If your cheese is burning, lower the oven temperature slightly. Keep a close eye on the nachos while they’re in the oven. Nobody likes burnt cheese.
Recipe Variations
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| BBQ Chicken | Top with BBQ sauce, shredded chicken, red onion, and cilantro. |
| Vegetarian | Use black beans, corn, bell peppers, and a sprinkle of chili powder. |
| Jalapeño Popper | Add sliced jalapeños, cream cheese, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. |
Ingredient Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitution Options |
|---|---|
| Cheddar Cheese | Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend |
| Monterey Jack | Mozzarella, provolone, or Oaxaca cheese |
| Smoked Beef Bacon | Regular bacon, turkey bacon, chorizo, or vegetarian bacon crumbles |
| Sour Cream | Greek yogurt, crema, or cashew cream (for a vegan option) |
Serving Suggestions
These waffle fry nachos are fantastic on their own, but adding a quick and easy side salad can complete the meal:
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Jalapeños
How to Store and Reheat Waffle Fry Nachos
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. To reheat, the oven is your best bet for maintaining crispiness. Spread the nachos on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The microwave can be used, but the fries will likely become soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cheese is best for nachos?
A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack is classic, but feel free to experiment.
What goes good on nachos?
The possibilities are endless! Meat, beans, veggies, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and jalapeños are all great options.
What is traditionally on nachos?
Traditionally, nachos include cheese, jalapeños, and sometimes beans or meat.
What other types of fries can you use for nachos?
Regular fries, sweet potato fries, or curly fries all work well.
Equipment Recommendations
I highly recommend using a cast-iron skillet for baking these nachos. It distributes heat evenly and keeps the fries crispy. If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, an oven-safe skillet or baking sheet will work just fine.
Nutritional Information
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 650 per serving
- Fat: 40g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 50g
Conclusion
There you have it: waffle fry nachos, a quick, easy, and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends. I know you’ll love them. Now, I want to hear from you. Leave a comment below sharing your own topping ideas or asking any questions you may have. And if you try this recipe, don’t forget to rate it. Happy cooking!
