Copycat Old Chicago Italian Nachos: A Crispy, Cheesy, Crowd-Pleasing Classic

Missing Old Chicago’s Italian Nachos? Make Them at Home!

If you ever dined at Old Chicago, chances are you fell in love with one of their most unforgettable appetizers—Italian Nachos. Crispy, golden wonton chips loaded with spicy Italian sausage, melted mozzarella, pepperoncini, and drizzled with rich Alfredo sauce… it was the ultimate fusion of Italian comfort and bar-style indulgence. Sadly, they’ve disappeared from the menu—but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring them back to life in your own kitchen!

This copycat Italian Nachos recipe is shockingly easy to recreate, insanely delicious, and guaranteed to become a party favorite.

🧀 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the “chips”:

• 1 package of wonton wrappers (cut into triangles)

• Vegetable oil for frying

Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded monetary jack

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

• 1/2 pound Pepperoni

• 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers

• 1/4 cup sliced black olives 

🔥 How to Make Italian Nachos (Step-by-Step)

1. Fry the Wonton Chips
Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F. Working in batches, fry the wonton triangles until golden and crisp—about 30 seconds per side. Drain on paper towels and lightly salt.

2. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Assemble the Nachos
On a large baking sheet or oven-safe platter, layer the fried wonton chips. Top with mozzarella & monetary jack cheeses, pepperoni & cooked sausage.  Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melty.

4. Serve 
Serve immediately with olives, peppers, & marinara sauce on the side!

💡 Tips & Twists

• Make it spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.

• Change protein: Grilled chicken or steak work great too.

• Go veggie: Skip the meat and load up on roasted red peppers, mushrooms, or artichokes.