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Crispy Old Chicago Italian Nachos Recipe Easy Savory Sausage Snack

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A savory twist on classic nachos featuring crispy pita or tortilla chips topped with spicy Italian sausage, melted mozzarella and provolone cheese, and tangy marinara sauce. Perfect for quick, crowd-pleasing snacks or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 bag of crispy pita chips or sturdy tortilla chips (about 8 ounces / 225 grams)
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) Italian sausage, casing removed (choose spicy or mild depending on your preference)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (whole milk mozzarella recommended)
  • 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/3 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce, warmed
  • Optional: black olives, sliced
  • Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven or broiler: Set to broil on high or preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Cook the sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  3. Brown the sausage: Cook for about 7–8 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges but still juicy inside. Avoid overcooking.
  4. Drain excess fat: Carefully drain off excess grease, leaving enough to keep the sausage moist.
  5. Arrange chips: Spread pita or tortilla chips evenly on a large baking sheet in a single layer.
  6. Add toppings: Spoon the cooked sausage evenly over the chips. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and provolone cheese on top.
  7. Warm the marinara: Heat the marinara sauce gently until just warm. Drizzle sparingly over the cheese layer.
  8. Melt the cheese: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2–4 minutes, watching closely until cheese bubbles and turns golden.
  9. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, scatter sliced pepperoncini, parsley, and optional extras like olives or Parmesan on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use gluten-free pita or corn tortilla chips for a gluten-free version. Turkey sausage can be substituted for a lighter option. Avoid overloading chips with sauce to prevent sogginess. Broil cheese carefully to avoid burning. Prepare sausage ahead to speed up assembly. Store leftovers in airtight container and reheat in oven to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian nachos, crispy nachos, sausage nachos, savory snack, easy appetizer, Italian sausage recipe, pita chips, melted cheese, quick snack

Find it online: https://bouncybowl.com/crispy-old-chicago-italian-nachos-recipe-easy-savory-sausage-snack/