There’s something irresistibly delightful about the crunch of a fresh chip that transports me back to my childhood. One whiff of those homemade Cool Ranch Doritos, and I’m instantly reminded of sunny afternoons spent snacking with friends. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered how easy it is to make these flavorful bites in my own kitchen!
No more settling for store-bought bags that never quite satisfy. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up these crispy corn tortilla chips that are bursting with that signature ranch flavor. Whether you’re hosting game night or simply looking to elevate your snack game, these chips are the perfect companion. And the best part? They come together in just a few quick steps. Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe long before the last chip is gone!
Why You’ll Love Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos
Homemade snacks can be a real game-changer!
Crispy Texture: These chips are fried to perfection, delivering that satisfying crunch you crave.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of ranch seasoning and smokiness creates a robust profile that’s greater than store-bought.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep, you can have these delicious bites ready in no time for any occasion.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for parties or movie nights, they’ll wow your friends and family alike!
Dive into this satisfying recipe for a delightful twist on a classic snack!
Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos Ingredients
Imagine sinking your teeth into these delightful snacks, made right at home!
For the Cooking
• Peanut or canola oil – Ideal for frying, offering a neutral taste that lets the chip flavor shine.
For the Chips
• Corn tortillas – The foundation of your crunchy treats, ensuring a perfect base for that homemade Cool Ranch flavor.
For the Seasoning
• Ranch seasoning – Provides that iconic ranch taste that will have your taste buds dancing!
• Smoked paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your chips.
• Garlic powder – Brings a savory depth that pairs beautifully with ranch seasoning.
• Onion powder – Complements the garlic and ranch flavors, adding layers of taste.
• Kosher salt – A crucial element for elevating all the flavors to perfection!
How to Make Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos
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Cut the corn tortillas into wedges.
Start by stacking your corn tortillas, then slice them into quarters for those perfect chip shapes that are both easy to handle and deliciously crispy! -
Heat the peanut or canola oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
Pour the oil into the pan and wait until it shimmers; this ensures your chips will fry to golden perfection. -
Fry the tortilla wedges in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
Carefully add the tortilla wedges to the hot oil, turning them occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking! -
Remove the chips and drain on paper towels.
Use a slotted spoon to lift the chips from the oil, letting them drip before placing them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. -
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt over the hot chips.
While the chips are still warm, shower them in the spice mix to allow it to stick perfectly and create that irresistible flavor!
Optional: Serve with your favorite salsa or dip for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos?
Elevate your snacking experience and create a delightful spread that everyone will adore!
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Fresh Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds a fresh twist and balances the spiciness of the ranch seasoning perfectly.
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Salsa Verde: The bright and zesty flavors of salsa verde enhance the chips’ earthiness, creating a delicious combination.
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Nacho Cheese Sauce: Drizzling warm cheese sauce over your chips transforms them into a decadent snack, ideal for movie nights.
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Spicy Salsa: For those who love a kick, a robust chipotle salsa pairs beautifully with the savory ranch flavor, igniting the taste buds.
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Vegetable Platter: Crunchy, fresh veggies alongside the chips bring a refreshing contrast, offering a vibrant addition to your snack table.
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Margaritas: Pair your chips with a classic margarita for a fun-filled evening! The tangy citrus notes will complement the flavors beautifully.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your snack feast on a sweet note with warm, homemade cookies that evoke beloved childhood memories.
Indulge in a delightful pairing adventure that enhances your homemade Cool Ranch Doritos!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut the corn tortillas into wedges and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the ranch seasoning along with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt ahead of time, keeping it in a sealed jar for quick access. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the peanut or canola oil, fry the tortilla wedges fresh for that crispy crunch, and sprinkle the seasoning mix on top while they’re still hot. This way, you’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality chips ready with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights or game days!
Expert Tips for Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos
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Oil Temperature: Get it just right: Ensure your frying oil is hot enough to prevent soggy chips. Aim for about 350°F (175°C) for crispiness.
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Batch Frying: Don’t overcrowd: Fry the tortilla wedges in small batches to keep the oil temperature stable and achieve that golden crunch without any steaming.
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Season While Hot: Flavor infusion: Sprinkle your seasoning mix over the chips while they’re hot to help it cling better for the ultimate homemade Cool Ranch flavor.
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Storage Tips: Keep them fresh: Store leftover chips in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness. Avoid the fridge, as moisture can make them soggy!
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Try Variations: Flavor fun: Experiment with different spices or seasoning blends to create unique flavors beyond the traditional ranch!
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Crispier Texture: Double fry method: For an extra crunchy chip, fry them once for a few minutes, let them rest, and then fry again until they’re perfectly crispy!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos
Room Temperature: Store leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them crisp and flavorful.
Fridge: Avoid refrigerating the chips, as this can introduce moisture, making them go soft instead of maintaining that crunchy texture.
Freezer: If needed, freeze unseasoned chips for up to 1 month in a sealed freezer bag. To enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven to regain their crunch!
Reheating: Warm leftover chips in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to refresh them before serving again.
Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos Variations
Feel free to explore these creative takes on your homemade chips!
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Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for a bold, fiery twist that will surely excite your taste buds.
Try embarking on a flavor journey—before you know it, you’ll be reaching for a refreshing drink to cool down. -
Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like dill or parsley to the seasoning blend for a refreshing herbal flavor that enhances that ranch profile beautifully.
Imagine biting into a chip and getting that burst of herby goodness, it’s like summer in every crunch! -
Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or finely grated Parmesan over the chips while they’re hot for a savory, cheesy flavor without the dairy.
It’s an easy way to elevate your chips and make them truly irresistible—a cheesy delight with every munch! -
Zesty Lime: Add freshly grated lime zest to the seasoning mixture for a citrusy pop that brightens every crunchy bite.
This will transport you to a beachside fiesta with every dip into your favorite salsa! -
Sweet & Spicy: Blend a hint of brown sugar into the seasoning for a touch of sweetness that balances out the spice and savory notes.
This unexpected twist invites a whole new dimension to your snacking experience—just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering! -
Sweet Potato Chips: Swap corn tortillas with thinly sliced sweet potatoes for a nutritious twist, bringing additional flavor and a lovely natural sweetness.
These chips not only taste amazing but also add a vibrant color to your snack platter! -
Smoky BBQ: Replace the ranch seasoning with a smoky barbecue blend for a playful take that turns your chips into a backyard favorite!
The combination of sweet and smoky creates an explosion of flavor that’s perfect for barbecues and picnics alike!
Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos Recipe FAQs
What kind of corn tortillas are best for this recipe?
Absolutely, you want to choose fresh corn tortillas that are pliable and free of dark spots or tears. Look for those made with simple ingredients, preferably organic, for the best flavor and texture.
How should I store my leftover Cool Ranch Doritos?
Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed will help maintain their crunchiness. Avoid refrigeration, as this can introduce moisture that will lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze the chips? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze unseasoned chips! Simply place the cooled, unseasoned chips into a sealed freezer bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they regain their crunch.
What should I do if my chips aren’t crispy?
If your chips are turning out soggy, make sure your frying oil is hot enough before adding the chips. The ideal temperature is around 350°F (175°C). Also, avoid crowding the pan — fry in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that perfect crunch.
Are there any dietary concerns for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains ingredients like peanut oil and ranch seasoning, which may not be suitable for people with nut allergies. Additionally, the ranch seasoning may have dairy products. Always check labels for allergens and consider using vegan or allergy-friendly alternatives if needed.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Cool Ranch Doritos?
Very! Experiment with additional spices like cayenne pepper for heat or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You could even try adding lime zest for a zesty kick! The more, the merrier when it comes to flavoring your homemade Cool Ranch Doritos!
Homemade Cool Ranch Doritos That Outshine Store-Bought!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the corn tortillas into wedges.
- Heat the peanut or canola oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the tortilla wedges in batches until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove the chips and drain on paper towels.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and kosher salt over the hot chips.