Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

Loaded Potato Chip Nachos – Easy, Cheesy, and Crowd-Pleasing!

Crispy, cheesy, and totally addictive—these loaded potato chip nachos are the ultimate party snack or game-day treat!

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If you’re craving something fun, fast, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering, these Loaded Potato Chip Nachos deliver every time. Unlike traditional nachos, these start with crunchy, salty potato chips that are piled high with gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and your favorite toppings. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging in a cozy snack night, this recipe is sure to steal the spotlight. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable!

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🧀 Extra Cheesy: Melty cheddar and Monterey Jack in every bite!

🥓 Savory & Satisfying: Crispy bacon adds that perfect salty crunch.

🥄 Easy to Make: Just layer and bake—no fuss!

🕒 Fast Prep: Ready in under 20 minutes.

🎉 Party-Perfect: Ideal for game days, potlucks, or movie nights.

🥬 Customizable: Add green onions, sour cream, jalapeños, or whatever you love.

🧂 Bold Flavors: Every bite hits you with rich, salty, cheesy goodness.

🔄 Great for Leftovers: Use up bits of cheese, bacon, or veggies in your fridge.

🔪 How to Make Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

Making these nachos is incredibly simple—and the results are outrageously delicious! Here’s how to do it:

Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Layer the Chips
Spread a generous layer of wavy potato chips across the baking sheet. Make sure they overlap slightly but don’t stack them too high—you want every chip to get a little love!

Add the Cheese
Sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the chips. Be generous—this is where the magic happens.

Top with Bacon & Extras
Scatter cooked, crumbled bacon on top. Want to level it up? Add sliced jalapeños, diced red onions, or chopped tomatoes here.

Bake Until Melty
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Finish with Fresh Toppings
Once out of the oven, add sour cream, green onions, or even a drizzle of hot sauce. This is your moment to get creative!

Serve Immediately
These nachos are best enjoyed right away while the cheese is gooey and the chips are still crispy.

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Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

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Forget the ordinary! Loaded potato chip nachos are a game-changer in the snack world. Ditch the usual tortilla chips and embrace the irresistible crunch of crispy potato chips. These nachos are a symphony of textures and flavors. Imagine a mountain of golden-brown chips blanketed in a gooey blanket of melted cheese, often a sharp cheddar, but feel free to get creative!
The real magic happens when you pile on the toppings. Crispy bacon crumbles add a salty bite, while vibrant scallions bring a fresh, herbaceous touch. Creamy sour cream provides a cooling contrast, and fiery jalapeños add a kick. But don't stop there! The possibilities are endless.
From smoky pulled pork to tangy salsa, guacamole to diced tomatoes, the flavor combinations are limited only by your imagination. Whether you're hosting a game day party or simply craving a satisfying snack, loaded potato chip nachos are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 12 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Appetizer, Snacks
Cuisine: American, American Fusion
Calories: 740
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 oz Ranch Seasoning packet,divided
  • 1 Cup Sour Cream
  • 10 Slices Bacon
  • 12 oz Potato Chips Wavy are the best, but can use others
  • 2 Cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
  • 2 Cups Monterey Jack Cheese shredded
  • 3 Large Green Onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp Hot Sauce or to taste (optional)

Equipment

1 Baking sheet (For layering and baking your loaded chips evenly.)
1 Parchment paper (Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick and easy.)
1 Cheese Grater (For freshly shredded cheese that melts better than pre-shredded.)
1 Tongs (Handy for layering chips and serving without crushing them.)
1 Oven Mitts ( To safely remove the hot tray from the oven.)
1 Serving Tray (Great for presenting the nachos at parties or gatherings.)

Method
 

  1. Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating up, prepare a large rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent the nachos from sticking to the baking sheet and make cleanup easier. Spread the potato chips out in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the chips are evenly distributed to ensure they cook evenly.
    12 oz Potato Chips
  2. In a small bowl, add 1 tablespoon of your favorite ranch dressing to the sour cream. Stir the mixture well until the ranch dressing is fully incorporated into the sour cream and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
    1 oz Ranch Seasoning, 1 Cup Sour Cream
  3. Arrange the bacon strips in a single layer in a large skillet. Cook the bacon over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. This should take about 10 minutes. Once the bacon is cooked, transfer the slices to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease. When the bacon is cool enough to handle, crumble it into small pieces.
    10 Slices Bacon
  4. In a medium bowl, combine the remaining ranch seasoning packet with the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Toss the cheese mixture until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the cheese. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the potato chips on the baking sheet, ensuring that each chip has a good amount of cheese. Top the cheese with the crumbled bacon, again making sure it's distributed evenly over the chips.
    2 Cups Cheddar Cheese, 2 Cups Monterey Jack Cheese, 12 oz Potato Chips
  5. Carefully place the baking sheet with the loaded potato chip nachos in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chips are beginning to brown and crisp around the edges. Keep a close eye on the nachos as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. Once baked, remove the nachos from the oven and immediately top with the chopped green onions and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. Serve the nachos while they are still warm and crispy, with the reserved sour cream dipping sauce on the side for dipping.
    3 Large Green Onions, 1 tsp Hot Sauce, 1 Cup Sour Cream

Nutrition

Serving: 12ozCalories: 740kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 25gFat: 55gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 20gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 1367mgPotassium: 837mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1044IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 621mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Here are some tips for making delicious loaded potato chip nachos:
1. Chip Selection:
  • Choose the right chips: Look for sturdy, ridged chips that can hold up to the toppings. Kettle-cooked or wavy chips work well.  
     
  • Avoid flimsy chips: Thin, delicate chips will likely break under the weight of the toppings.
2. Topping Combinations:
  • Go classic: Combine shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, scallions, and sour cream.
  • Get creative: Experiment with different cheeses (like Monterey Jack or pepper jack), add chopped jalapeños, diced tomatoes, guacamole, salsa, or even pulled pork.
  • Spice it up: Include a sprinkle of chili powder, cumin, or cayenne pepper.
3. Assembly and Baking:
  • Arrange the chips: Spread the chips evenly on a baking sheet.
  • Add cheese: Sprinkle generously with your chosen cheese.
  • Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Add toppings: Remove from the oven and immediately top with your desired toppings.
4. Serving:
  • Serve immediately: Enjoy the nachos while they're hot and crispy.
  • Customize: Let guests add their own favorite toppings.
Extra Tips:
  • Use parchment paper: Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.  
     
  • Don't overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can prevent the chips from crisping up properly.
  • Consider a double layer: For extra cheesy nachos, bake a second layer of cheese on top of the first.
Enjoy your delicious and customizable loaded potato chip nachos!

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Let us know how it was!

🍽 What to Serve with Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

These nachos are bold, cheesy, and packed with flavor—so it helps to pair them with sides and drinks that balance or enhance the richness. Whether you’re hosting a party or planning a fun dinner night, here are the perfect pairings:

🥗 Crisp Veggie Platter – Cool things down with celery, carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, or bell pepper strips. A light ranch dip or hummus on the side makes it even better!

🍺 Cold Beer or Hard Seltzer – Something light and bubbly helps cut through the richness. Go for a lager, pilsner, or citrusy IPA.

🥤 Sparkling Water with Lime – Want to keep it non-alcoholic? Sparkling water with fresh lime or cucumber slices is super refreshing.

🍹 Spicy Margaritas – If you’re hosting a crowd, serve a pitcher of margaritas to match the spice in the nachos.

🍳 Fried or Scrambled Egg – Turn this into a brunch-worthy dish by topping with a soft-cooked egg. Yes, it’s a thing!

🥬 Simple Green Salad – Balance the saltiness with a light salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette.

🥑 Crave-Worthy Recipes to Try Next

❓ FAQ – Loaded Potato Chip Nachos

Can I use other types of chips besides wavy potato chips?
Absolutely! While wavy chips hold up best under the weight of the toppings, you can use kettle-cooked, tortilla chips, or even thick-cut pita chips. Just avoid thin, delicate chips—they’ll get soggy or break too easily.

How do I keep the chips from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, avoid overloading the chips with wet toppings before baking. Add fresh toppings like sour cream, tomatoes, or salsa after baking. Also, bake just until the cheese is melted—don’t overdo it.

Can I make these in the air fryer or microwave?
You can! For the air fryer, layer a small batch and heat at 350°F for about 3–5 minutes. In the microwave, assemble on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second bursts until cheese melts. The oven will give you the best crispy results, though.

Can I make them ahead of time?
It’s best to bake these right before serving. However, you can prep all the ingredients—cook the bacon, shred the cheese, chop toppings—and store everything separately. Then assemble and bake when ready.

What are the best toppings to add?
Beyond cheese and bacon, try:

  • Sliced jalapeños 🌶️

  • Diced tomatoes 🍅

  • Pickled onions

  • Green onions or scallions

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt

  • Guacamole or avocado slices 🥑

  • A drizzle of ranch, sriracha, or hot sauce 🔥

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Tuscan Butter Scallops

Tuscan Butter Scallops – A Restaurant-Worthy Dish Made Easy

Seared scallops bathed in a creamy garlic butter sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and effortless, these Tuscan Butter Scallops are exactly what you need. Perfectly seared scallops are nestled in a creamy garlic butter sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and a touch of Italian flair. While it may look like something from a fine dining restaurant, don’t be fooled—this dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is the depth of flavor. First, the scallops are pan-seared to golden perfection, locking in their natural sweetness. Then, they’re paired with a rich and savory Tuscan-style sauce that combines butter, garlic, and cream with sun-dried tomatoes and tender wilted spinach. The result? A decadent yet balanced seafood dish that tastes like a getaway to the Italian coast.

Even better, this recipe requires minimal prep and just one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself, Tuscan Butter Scallops deliver comfort, flavor, and sophistication—all in one bite.

So, grab your skillet and get ready to make a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your kitchen. Your taste buds (and dinner guests) will thank you!

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🍽️ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.
⭐ Restaurant-Quality at Home: Elegant presentation and bold flavor without the fine-dining price tag.
🧼 One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, more flavor—everything cooks in one skillet.
🧄 Rich, Creamy Sauce: The Tuscan garlic butter sauce is luxuriously smooth and packed with flavor.
🎉 Versatile & Impressive: Perfect for weeknight dinners, romantic evenings, or holiday gatherings.
🥦 Low-Carb Friendly: Naturally low in carbs and gluten-free (just check your broth/cream labels).
🌶️ Customizable: Swap spinach for kale, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

🔪 How to Make Tuscan Butter Scallops

Making this dish is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps:

👩‍🍳 1. Prep the Scallops:
Pat your scallops dry with paper towels. This helps them sear beautifully. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

🔥 2. Sear to Golden Perfection:
In a hot skillet with a touch of oil, sear the scallops for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove and set aside.

🧄 3. Make the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and cook for a minute more.

🥬 4. Add the Cream and Spinach:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add in Parmesan and let it melt into the sauce. Toss in spinach and let it wilt.

🍤 5. Return the Scallops:
Add the scallops back into the pan, spooning sauce over them to warm through—just 1–2 minutes more.

🌿 6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve immediately with your favorite side!

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Tuscan Butter Scallops

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Tuscan Butter Scallops are a symphony of flavors and textures. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth scallops, perfectly seared and bathed in a rich, buttery sauce with aromatic garlic, a touch of white wine, and a hint of bright lemon. This dish is an elegant and simple way to showcase the delicate sweetness of scallops, making it perfect for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or any night you want to elevate your meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Appetizer, Starter
Cuisine: American, American Fusion, Italian America Fusion
Calories: 449
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ Lbs Sea Scallops thawed if frozen, side muscle removed
  • Pinch Kosher Salt
  • 4 Tbsp. Butter unsalted, divided
  • 1 Medium Yellow Onion finely chopped
  • 4 Cloves Garlic finely chopped
  • 1 tsp. Dried Basil dried
  • 1 tsp. Dried Oregano
  • ½ Cup White Wine dry
  • 1½ Cups Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 7 oz Sun-dried tomatoes drained, cut into strips
  • 1 Cup Heavy Cream
  • ½ Cup Parmesan Cheese finely grated
  • Pinch Ground Black Pepper freshly ground
  • 5 oz Baby Spinach
  • 1 Bunch Parsley chopped, for serving

Equipment

1 Cast Iron Skillet (For that golden-brown sear on the scallops.)
1 Fish Spatula (Helps you flip delicate scallops without breaking them.)
1 Chef's knife (For prepping garlic, spinach, or slicing sun-dried tomatoes.)
1 Garlic Press (If you want quick, evenly minced garlic.)
1 Small mixing bowl (To season scallops before cooking.)
1 Paper Towels (For drying scallops thoroughly to achieve a good sear.)
1 Measuring Cups & Spoons (For accurate seasoning and sauce proportions.)
1 Serving Dish (Showcase the sauce and scallops together beautifully.)
1 Tongs (Handy for turning scallops or tossing spinach into the sauce.)

Method
 

  1. Thoroughly pat the scallops dry with paper towels. This will help them sear properly and develop a nice crust. Season both sides of the scallops with salt. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foamy, carefully arrange the scallops in the skillet in a single, even layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook the scallops for about 3 minutes on the first side, or until they are golden brown and slightly caramelized. Using tongs, gently flip the scallops and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until they are opaque all the way through. This indicates that they are cooked. Transfer the cooked scallops to a plate and set them aside.
    1½ Lbs Sea Scallops, Pinch Kosher Salt, 4 Tbsp. Butter
  2. In the same skillet you used to cook the scallops, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, along with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and softens, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the chopped fresh basil and oregano. Cook for about 1 minute more, or until the herbs become fragrant. Pour in the white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced by half, about 2 minutes. This will concentrate the flavors of the sauce.
    Pinch Kosher Salt, 4 Tbsp. Butter, 1 Medium Yellow Onion, 4 Cloves Garlic, 1 tsp. Dried Basil, 1 tsp. Dried Oregano, ½ Cup White Wine
  3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to burst and release their juices. This will add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the sauce. Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the Parmesan cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2 minutes. Taste the sauce and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
    1½ Cups Cherry Tomatoes, 7 oz Sun-dried tomatoes, 1 Cup Heavy Cream, 1/2 Cup Parmesan Cheese, Pinch Ground Black Pepper
  4. Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately add the fresh spinach. Stir the spinach into the sauce until it turns a vibrant green color and just begins to wilt. Be careful not to overcook the spinach. Add the cooked scallops and any juices that have accumulated on the plate to the skillet. Gently stir to combine the scallops with the sauce and spinach, being careful not to break the scallops. Finally, sprinkle the dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
    5 oz Baby Spinach, 1 Bunch Parsley

Nutrition

Serving: 12ozCalories: 449kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 24gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 658mgPotassium: 1744mgFiber: 6gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 4454IUVitamin C: 43mgCalcium: 237mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Ingredients:
  • Scallops: Use fresh, high-quality sea scallops. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure proper searing. 
  • Butter: Use unsalted butter for the best flavor.
  • Aromatics: Onion and garlic create a flavorful base for the sauce.
  • Herbs: Fresh basil and oregano add a fragrant touch.
  • White Wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the scallops.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated tomato flavor.
  • Heavy Cream: Heavy cream creates a rich and luxurious sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
  • Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts quickly and adds a vibrant green color. 
     
Cooking Tips:
  • Dry and Season Scallops: Pat the scallops dry and season them with salt before searing. 
  • Sear Scallops Properly: Use a hot skillet and don't overcrowd the pan. Sear the scallops until golden brown and cooked through.  
  • Sauté Aromatics: Sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
  • Reduce Wine: Simmer the wine to reduce it and concentrate its flavor.
  • Add Tomatoes: Cook the cherry tomatoes until they start to burst, then add the sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Simmer Sauce: Simmer the sauce with cream and Parmesan cheese until thickened.
  • Wilt Spinach: Add the spinach off the heat to prevent overcooking.
  • Combine Gently: Gently stir in the scallops to avoid breaking them.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve Immediately: This dish is best served immediately while the scallops are hot and tender.
  • Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Sides: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce, or pair with a simple pasta or rice dish.
  • Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine or a light-bodied red wine complements the flavors of the dish.
Variations:
  • Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
  • Lemon: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the finished dish for brightness.
  • Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or tarragon.
With these tips, you'll be able to create a restaurant-quality Tuscan Butter Scallops dish that's sure to impress!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

🍷 What to Serve with Tuscan Butter Scallops

These Tuscan Butter Scallops are rich, savory, and full of bold Italian-inspired flavors, so pairing them with lighter or complementary sides helps balance the dish beautifully. Here are a few delicious options to round out your meal:

🥖 Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop of that creamy Tuscan sauce. Try a warm baguette or homemade garlic knots.
🍝 Pasta or Zoodles: Serve over fettuccine, linguine, or zucchini noodles to make it a hearty main course.
🥗 Simple Green Salad: A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
🍚 Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Great for sopping up the sauce while keeping it gluten-free or low-carb.
🥦 Roasted Veggies: Think roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts to add texture and nutrients.
🍷 Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the buttery, garlicky flavors.

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📌 Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I use frozen scallops?
Yes, absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and pat them very dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear and prevent excess moisture in the pan.

❓ What’s the best skillet for searing scallops?
A cast iron or heavy stainless steel skillet works best. It holds heat well and gives you that beautiful golden crust.

❓ Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using coconut cream and a dairy-free butter alternative, but the flavor will be slightly different. Nutritional yeast can be subbed for Parmesan in a pinch.

❓ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just double-check your broth, cream, and Parmesan to make sure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.

❓ What if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
You can use cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a similar sweet-tangy depth. The sauce will still be delicious!

❓ How do I know when scallops are cooked?
Scallops should be opaque and firm to the touch. They cook quickly—about 2–3 minutes per side. Don’t overcook or they’ll turn rubbery.

❓ Can I reheat leftovers?
You can, but scallops are best served fresh. If you do reheat, use gentle heat on the stove and avoid the microwave to preserve texture.

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