If crunchy, spicy, and cheesy snacks are your thing, you are absolutely going to fall in love with these Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips. They’re the ultimate comfort treat, combining the salty satisfaction of chips with layers of luscious cheese and a punch of zesty chili seasoning. Whether you’re gearing up for game day, hanging out with family, or in need of a speedy crowd-pleaser, this snack will be your new go-to. These are not your run-of-the-mill chips—every bite has that irresistible balance of heat, sharpness, and crunch that makes you reach for just one more handful… over and over again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every element is carefully chosen to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. These ingredients all play a crucial role, whether it’s adding punch, melting beautifully, or ensuring every chip is absolutely loaded with spirit and seasoning. Ready to see how easy this is?
- Corn tortillas: These are the backbone—sturdy, crisp, and perfectly suited for absorbing all that flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Just a little is needed to crisp up your chips in the oven or air fryer, giving them that iconic golden crunch.
- Chili powder: This is where the fire comes in—choose your favorite blend (smoky, mild, or bold) to customize the heat.
- Cheddar cheese: The classic topping! Its sharpness and melty goodness give these Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips their signature cheesy layer.
- Paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and vibrant red color to the seasoning mix.
- Garlic powder: Just a hint brings out savory undertones that make every bite pop.
- Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together and enhancing that irresistible chip appeal.
How to Make Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips
Step 1: Slice and Prepare the Tortillas
Start by stacking your corn tortillas and slicing them into chip-sized wedges—usually sixths or eighths, depending on your preference. Spread them out in a single layer on your baking tray or air fryer basket so they crisp up evenly and all that good flavor can cling to every piece.
Step 2: Brush and Season
Lightly brush both sides of your tortilla wedges with vegetable oil. This is the secret to getting that perfect, craveable crunch. Next, combine chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle this bold mixture liberally over the chips, making sure all surfaces get a dusting of seasoning. This step is what sets Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips apart, giving them their zesty punch and bold color.
Step 3: Bake Until Crisp
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using the oven, bake the tortillas for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. In an air fryer, they typically take 5–7 minutes, depending on thickness and batch size. Watch closely—they go from golden to overly done quickly. When they’re crisp and just starting to brown, they’re ready for the next delicious step.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Right when your chips are piping hot, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Pop them back in the oven or air fryer just until the cheese melts into tiny pools of gooey, golden goodness—usually 2–3 minutes. The cheese will bubble and amp up the aroma, transforming plain chips into irresistible Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let your chips cool on the tray for a minute or two. This helps them firm up and ensures each piece has that satisfying, snappy crunch topped by the perfect amount of melty cheese and bold chili flavor. Now grab a platter, transfer your masterpiece, and get ready for the best snack attack around!
How to Serve Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips
Garnishes
For the ultimate finish, garnish your Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips with freshly chopped cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, or a sprinkle of extra chili powder for a color and flavor boost. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice right before serving adds brightness and balances the richness of the cheese. Let your creativity shine to make this snack look as amazing as it tastes!
Side Dishes
Pair your chips with classic sides like homemade guacamole, chunky salsa, or spicy black bean dip. They’re also fantastic alongside a fresh salad for a balanced snack plate, or as a crunchy topper for chili or soup. The bold flavors of Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips play well with creamy and refreshing sides—the perfect way to round out your snack-table lineup.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the chips high on a platter, layer them in nacho-style stacks, or serve in mini baskets for individual portions. For parties or game nights, consider setting up a “chip bar” with toppings like pickled jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and extra cheese so every guest can customize their own plate of Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips. Presentation is half the fun, and there’s no wrong way to showcase their golden beauty!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the chips cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature. Lined with a paper towel to wick away excess moisture, Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips will stay crisp for up to 2 days. However, they’re at their very best enjoyed fresh, so try to make just what you’ll eat in one sitting if you can!
Freezing
While freezing isn’t usually recommended for chips (they can lose their crunch), if you need to prep ahead for a party, bake the seasoned tortilla chips without the cheese, freeze in a zip-top bag, and then reheat and add cheese right before serving. This way, you preserve their texture and get perfectly melted cheese every time you’re ready for snacks.
Reheating
To revive any chips that have lost their crisp or to melt any extra cheese, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy. With a few minutes’ patience, your Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips will be perfectly crunchy and flavorful once again!
FAQs
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn?
Yes, but expect a softer texture and slightly different flavor. Corn tortillas capture the traditional taste and crispiness best, but if you’re in a pinch or prefer flour tortillas, they will still yield tasty results!
What’s the best way to spice up Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips even more?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped pickled jalapeños to the cheese before melting. You can also serve with hot sauce or salsa for those who love an extra kick.
Can I make Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just double-check that your corn tortillas and chili powder are certified gluten-free, and you’re all set for a totally gluten-free snack experience.
How do I prevent the chips from getting soggy under the cheese?
Make sure to bake the chips until they’re fully crisp before adding cheese, and don’t go overboard with toppings. Serve immediately after melting the cheese for the best texture.
Are these good for meal prep or lunchboxes?
They’re best enjoyed freshly made, but you can pack cooled cooked chips in a lunchbox liner for a crunchy treat. Add cheese separately and microwave briefly before eating, if needed, for a quick snack on the go.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to upgrade your snacking game, these Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips are your ticket to flavor-packed, homemade happiness. Try them once for yourself and you’ll see why they’re such a hit every time—cheesy, spicy, impossibly crunchy, and so easy to make. Get your chips lined up, pick your toppings, and dive in—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chili Cheese Tortilla Chips are a tasty and easy-to-make snack perfect for parties or game day. These crispy chips are loaded with spicy chili and gooey melted cheese, making them a crowd-pleaser that will disappear fast!
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chips:
- 1 bag tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapenos
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the Chili: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
- Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Assemble the Chips: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
- Spoon the chili over the chips and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Top with sliced jalapenos.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the toppings with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
