Homemade Tortilla Chips

Homemade tortilla chips are a delicious and easy-to-make snack that can be enjoyed on their own or as a tasty accompaniment to dips and salsas.

While it may seem daunting, there is nothing quite like making your own tortilla chips. It is easier than you think and they are SO MUCH BETTER than anything you’ll find in a bag at the store.

I’m on a major tortilla chip kick right now. I absolutely can’t get enough – especially when they are homemade like this tasty little snack. I know you’ll love them as much as we do.

RESTAURANT STYLE CHIPS

Commonly Asked Questions About Homemade Tortilla Chips

why make homemade tortilla chips

There are several reasons why you might want to make homemade tortilla chips:

• Freshness: Homemade tortilla chips are made from fresh ingredients and don’t have any preservatives or additives. This means that they taste fresher and are healthier for you.
• Customization: When you make your own tortilla chips, you can customize them to your liking. You can choose your favorite seasonings, add toppings, and adjust the level of salt and spiciness to your preference.
• Cost-effective: Making your own tortilla chips can be more cost-effective than buying them pre-made from the store. You can buy a package of corn tortillas for a few dollars and make a large batch of chips, which will last for several servings.
• Fun activity: Making homemade tortilla chips can be a fun activity to do with family and friends. It’s a great way to spend time together in the kitchen and create something delicious.
• Healthier option: Homemade tortilla chips can be a healthier option than store-bought chips, especially if you bake or air fry them instead of frying them. This can help you cut down on calories and fat while still enjoying a tasty snack.

Ways To Use Homemade Tortilla Chips

Here are some ideas for how you can use your homemade tortilla chips:

• Nachos: Arrange the tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with shredded cheese, beans, meat, and any other toppings you like, and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Taco salad: Crush the tortilla chips and sprinkle them on top of a bed of greens, along with taco meat, beans, cheese, and other toppings.
• Chilaquiles: Soak the tortilla chips in salsa or tomato sauce until they’re softened, then top with cheese, beans, and other toppings and bake in the oven until bubbly.
• Breakfast hash: Use the tortilla chips as a base for a breakfast hash by topping them with scrambled eggs, sausage or bacon, cheese, and avocado.
• Soup topping: Crush the tortilla chips and sprinkle them on top of soups like chili or tortilla soup for added texture and flavor.
• Snack mix: Mix the tortilla chips with nuts, pretzels, and other snacks to create a delicious snack mix.
• Dipping: Serve the tortilla chips with dips like guacamole, salsa, or queso for a tasty snack or party appetizer.

Don’t Miss These Tortilla Recipes Too

White Corn Tortillas

Easy Homemade Flour Tortillas

Homemade Tortilla Chip Ingredients

• tortillas
• salt to taste
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

can I use a different variety of oil

Yes, you can use a different variety of oil to fry your tortilla chips. Vegetable oil, canola oil, peanut oil, and sunflower oil are all good options for frying.

However, different oils have different smoke points, which is the temperature at which the oil begins to smoke and break down. It’s important to choose an oil with a high smoke point, around 375-400°F (190-200°C), to ensure that your tortilla chips fry evenly and don’t absorb too much oil.

Some oils like olive oil or coconut oil may have lower smoke points and may not be the best choice for frying tortilla chips. If you’re unsure about which oil to use, check the label or do some research to find an oil that’s suitable for high-heat frying.

Extra Tips

• Squeeze a little lime juice on top of these homemade chips right after you remove them from the hot oil.
• Pair these with your favorite salsa, salsa verde, or your favorite dips for the perfect Cinco de Mayo celebration.
• Add a little garlic powder, chili powder, or kosher salt, to these crispy tortilla chips.
• These crunchy homemade tortilla chips can be made with your standard corn tortilla, extra thin corn tortillas, whole wheat tortillas, or white corn tortillas. 

How to Make Homemade Tortilla Chips

1. Use a sharp knife to cut each tortilla into 8 wedges.
2. Heat a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat and add the oil to 2 inches in depth. Heat the oil to 350F.
3. Fry the tortilla wedges in small batches until lightly browned, flipping once during the frying.
4. Remove and drain on paper towels, then sprinkle with salt.
5. Repeat the process until all of the chips are fried.
6. Cool the chips slightly before serving.

How To Make Baked Tortilla Chips

If you prefer a healthier alternative to fried tortilla chips, you can make baked tortilla chips instead.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut the tortillas into wedges using a knife or kitchen scissors.
3. Arrange the tortilla wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Lightly spray the tortilla wedges with cooking spray or brush them with oil. This will help them get crispy in the oven.
5. Sprinkle the tortilla wedges with salt or any other seasonings you like.
6. Bake the tortilla chips in the oven for 8-12 minutes, or until they’re crispy and lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn.
7. Remove the tortilla chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

How To Make Air-Fried Tortilla Chips

If you have an air fryer and prefer a healthier alternative to fried tortilla chips, you can make air fried tortilla chips instead.

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cut the tortillas into wedges using a knife or kitchen scissors.
3. Lightly spray the tortilla wedges with cooking spray or brush them with oil. This will help them get crispy in the air fryer.
4. Arrange the tortilla wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Sprinkle the tortilla wedges with salt or any other seasonings you like.
6. Air fry the tortilla chips for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re crispy and lightly golden. Shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even cooking.
7. Remove the tortilla chips from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing

Serving:

• Serve immediately: Fried foods are best served immediately after cooking, while they’re still hot and crispy.
• Drain excess oil: Use a paper towel or wire rack to drain any excess oil from the fried food before serving.
• Serve with dip or sauce: These chips are great when served with a dipping sauce or dip, such as salsa, ranch dressing, or guacamole.
• Garnish: Adding a sprinkle of salt, a dash of paprika, or some chopped herbs can add a pop of flavor and color to your fried food.

Storing:

• Room-Temperature: If you have any leftover chips, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Reheat in the oven: To reheat fried food, place it on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Don’t microwave: Microwaving fried food can make it soggy and unappetizing, so avoid reheating it in the microwave if possible.
• Don’t store for too long: Fried food is best eaten within a day or two of cooking. After that, it can start to lose its crispiness and flavor.

How Long Do They Keep

Homemade tortilla chips can last for several days if stored properly. Here’s how long you can expect your homemade tortilla chips to keep:

At room temperature: Homemade tortilla chips can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. However, they may start to lose their crispiness after the first day.

Frying Tips

Frying can be a bit tricky, but with a few tips and tricks, you can make your fried foods turn out perfectly crispy and delicious. Here are some frying tips to keep in mind:

• Choose the right oil: Different oils have different smoke points, which is the temperature at which they start to break down and produce smoke. For frying, you want an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
• Use a thermometer: A thermometer can help you monitor the temperature of the oil and ensure that it stays at the right temperature. The ideal frying temperature is usually between 350°F and 375°F (175°C and 190°C).
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy, greasy food. Make sure there’s plenty of room between the pieces of food you’re frying.
• Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon or a wire rack to remove fried foods from the oil and let any excess oil drip off before serving.
• Keep the oil clean: Over time, bits of food and other debris can accumulate in the oil, which can cause it to become rancid and affect the flavor of your food. To keep your oil clean, strain it after each use and store it in a cool, dark place.

Tips for Perfect Chips

Here are some tips to make sure your homemade tortilla chips turn out perfectly crispy and delicious:

• Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas will give you the best flavor and texture for your chips. You can use either corn or flour tortillas, depending on your preference.
• Cut the tortillas evenly: Cut the tortillas into even wedges so they cook evenly. You can use a knife, pizza cutter, or kitchen scissors to cut the tortillas.
• Fry in small batches: Fry the tortilla chips in small batches so they cook evenly and don’t overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy chips.
• Season immediately: As soon as the tortilla chips come out of the oil, sprinkle them with salt or any other seasonings you like. This will help the seasoning stick to the chips.
• Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon or wire rack to remove the chips from the oil and let any excess oil drain off before serving.
• Serve immediately: Homemade tortilla chips are best served immediately after cooking, while they’re still hot and crispy. If you need to store them, see the previous question for tips on storing.

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If you love this easy tortilla chip recipe, you’re going to love these other snacks to pair them with too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great Snacks to Make

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Air Fryer Shishito Peppers

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