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Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips

Featured in Easy Party Snacks.

Made homemade tortilla chips cause I was craving something crunchy! Just cut up corn tortillas and seasoned them with this spicy cheese mix. They got so crispy in the oven. Way better than store bought and you can make them as spicy as you want. My kids kept stealing them while they were cooling. Perfect for dipping in salsa or just snacking. Now we always make extra cause they disappear so fast.```
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Mina cooking in her kitchen
Updated on Thu, 09 Jan 2025 18:07:47 GMT
A close-up of a glass bowl filled with seasoned tortilla chips, garnished with herbs and surrounded by a rustic wooden surface. Pin it
A close-up of a glass bowl filled with seasoned tortilla chips, garnished with herbs and surrounded by a rustic wooden surface. | lastminrecipes.com

Irresistible Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips Made Fresh

I discovered how to make these chili cheese tortilla chips when I wanted something better than store-bought snacks. The combination of crispy organic corn tortillas fresh from hot avocado oil with that amazing chili cheese coating creates pure snacking magic. They taste so much better than anything from a bag and I love knowing exactly what goes into them.

Why These Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips Win Every Time

Making chili cheese tortilla chips at home lets you control every delicious detail. I use organic corn tortillas and heart-healthy avocado oil to create something that's both tasty and better for you. Whether you're serving them at a party with dips or just craving a really good snack these never disappoint.

What You'll Need

  • Corn Tortillas: I always go organic for the freshest taste.
  • Cheddar Cheese Powder: This creates that perfect cheesy coating.
  • Chili Powder: Adds just the right kick.
  • Spices: My blend of cumin, paprika, onion, and garlic makes them irresistible.
  • Avocado Oil: Perfect for frying gives such a nice crisp.
A close-up of a glass bowl filled with golden, seasoned tortilla chips, accompanied by small bowls of green and red spices in the background. Pin it
A close-up of a glass bowl filled with golden, seasoned tortilla chips, accompanied by small bowls of green and red spices in the background. | lastminrecipes.com

Let's Make Some Chips

Get Your Tortillas Ready
Let them dry a bit then cut them into nice triangles.
Mix Your Magic
Blend your cheese powder and all those amazing spices in a bowl.
Time to Fry
Get your oil hot and fry those triangles until they're perfectly golden and crispy.
Add That Flavor
Salt them while hot then toss in your cheese mixture until well coated.
Ready to Munch
Let them cool just a bit then dig in while they're still warm.

My Chip Making Secrets

Finding good cheese powder makes all the difference in these chili cheese tortilla chips. Don't forget to salt them right after frying it sticks better when they're hot. Like it spicy? Add some cayenne or chipotle. Always fry in small batches they'll get crispier that way.

Serve Them Up

These chili cheese tortilla chips taste amazing on their own but try them with fresh salsa or guacamole. Sometimes I serve them with Mexican street corn dip for special occasions. They're perfect with an ice cold drink on game day or movie night.

A glass bowl filled with golden, seasoned tortilla chips is placed on a countertop, accompanied by small bowls of green sauce and spices. Pin it
A glass bowl filled with golden, seasoned tortilla chips is placed on a countertop, accompanied by small bowls of green sauce and spices. | lastminrecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why let tortillas dry before frying?

Drying helps remove moisture, resulting in crispier chips that don't get soggy quickly.

→ Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, brush with oil and bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, though texture will be different.

→ What's the best oil temperature for frying?

Keep oil at 360°F for perfect crispiness. Too hot will burn them, too cool makes them greasy.

→ How do I store leftover chips?

Store in an airtight bag or container for up to 3 days. They'll stay crispy if kept dry.

→ Can I use different seasonings?

Yes, experiment with your favorite spice combinations while keeping the same method.

Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips

Crispy fried corn tortilla chips dusted with a zesty chili cheese seasoning. Perfect for snacking or dipping in salsa and guacamole.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
By: Mina


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Mexican-American

Yield: 6 Servings (60 chips)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 10 corn tortillas (5½ inch).
02 1 tablespoon cheddar cheese powder.
03 1 teaspoon chili powder.
04 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin.
05 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
06 1/2 teaspoon granulated onion.
07 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic.
08 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus extra for sprinkling.
09 Avocado oil for frying (16.9 oz bottle).

Instructions

Step 01

Lay tortillas on paper towels to dry 30 minutes.

Step 02

Cut each tortilla into 6 triangle wedges.

Step 03

Mix cheese powder and all seasonings.

Step 04

Heat oil to 360°F in large skillet.

Step 05

Fry chips in batches about 3 minutes.

Step 06

Drain on paper towels.

Step 07

Sprinkle with salt while hot.

Step 08

Transfer to bowl and season with cheese mix.

Step 09

Toss gently to coat.

Step 10

Repeat with remaining batches.

Notes

  1. Makes 60 chips total.
  2. Can be stored up to 3 days.
  3. Keep seasoned chips in ziplock bag.
  4. Serve with salsa or guacamole.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large cast iron skillet.
  • Tongs.
  • Paper towels.
  • Large bowl.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Dairy (cheese powder).
  • Corn (tortillas).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 148
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
  • Protein: 3 g